PROBLEM STATEMENT
People in Namibia, like in many other countries, enjoy drinking beer. The brewing process is largely dependent on thermal energy, which is estimated to be 70% of the total energy consumed by a brewery. The AB InBev brewery in Okahandja in Namibia relies on very low sulphur fuel oil (VLSFO) to generate the thermal energy for the brewing process. Fuel oil is not environmentally friendly and expensive.
As Namibia is prone to lasting droughts and inconsistent rainfall patterns, solar panels are not an option. Solar panels require lots of water to keep them clean and functioning efficiently.
SOLUTION
Namibia has an average of 9,9 hours of sunlight per day. This is ideal for generating energy from solar technologies. The HELIOtube, an innovative inflatable tube-shaped collector, will generate emission-free solar thermal energy to produce steam for the brewing process in Okahandja. Unlike solar panels, which must be cleaned with water, the HELIOtube is cleaned with compressed air, making it highly suited to arid regions.
EXPECTED RESULTS
The HELIOtube will replace the use of fossil fuels with emission-free thermal solar technology, which will significantly reduce CO2 emissions. Other AB InBev breweries will also use the HELIOtube to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This technology will also be used for industrial applications which are often technically and commercially difficult to decarbonize.