ZEBRAS is a groundbreaking collaboration led by MEP Technologies, uniting industry leaders such as PowerUp Off-Grid Services, Nevadic, The Washing Machine Project (TWMP) and Skrum. This initiative seeks to redefine energy access in Nigeria by introducing a comprehensive and innovative solution. Introducing a cutting-edge containerised renewable generation system, ensuring versatile deployment capabilities---whether integrated with the grid or operating independently. Pioneering Energy as a Service (EaaS), a revolutionary model that ensures uninterrupted green energy at the point of use. Here's how it works: AI-Driven Predictive Analysis: Our system employs advanced AI and machine learning to analyse individual user behaviours. By predicting precisely when a user's power source is due to run low, we initiate a proactive battery replacement schedule. Swappable Batteries and Just-in-Time Delivery: operating on a swappable battery concept. As batteries near depletion, our green fleet, strategically deployed through AI logistics, ensures timely delivery of renewable energy-charged replacements. This just-in-time approach guarantees a seamless transition, eliminating any concerns about running out of power. Powerstations: These are the units that directly replace fossil fuel generators. They are comparable in size and weight to their equivalent generators. They can also be synchronised to provide 3 phase power. This means that they are adaptable to most power scenarios. Mini-powerstations: These parts are capable of allowing DC equipment to be run directly from batteries, which is a more common situation than expected. Whilst specific to situations where only DC power is required, they offer a lower-cost option for EaaS and as a full generator replacement. Utilising Existing Transport Networks: Leveraging the existing transport network, our technicians deploy renewable energy-charged batteries directly to end users. This innovative model maximises efficiency, making use of established infrastructure to deliver clean power solutions precisely when and where it is needed. TWMP's Washing Machine Facilities: TWMP adds a unique dimension by establishing washing machine facilities for end users. Collaborating with Nevadic, working towards an electric version, promoting sustainability in essential services. Repurposing Fossil Fuel Generators: Nevadic contributes to environmental sustainability by devising innovative designs for repurposing replaced fossil fuel generators. This approach minimises waste and maximises the utilisation of materials, aligning with circular economy principles. Transport Efficiency and Community Trust: Skrum, a key partner, not only optimises transport efficiency but also actively engages with local communities. By building trust, Skrum becomes a vital link in seamlessly integrating Energy as a Service (EaaS) into communities and opening avenues for future projects. ZEBRAS goes beyond delivering green energy. It addresses community needs, creates local job opportunities, fosters economic growth, and showcases the prowess of UK innovation. The project is a testament to sustainability and social responsibility, embodying a holistic approach to energy transformation in Nigeria.

In this project, the consortium will demonstrate an innovative sodium-nickel-chloride (NaNiCl2) prototype system to TRL6 in representative automotive-sector conditions. The Consortium is led by LiNa Energy who develop the batteries at the heart of this project. The other partners are: * Centre for Process Innovation -- who will research the challenges and opportunities in recycling/re-use LiNa's technology and will support the scale-up. * Helical Technology Ltd -- will lead design of the end-user specification for the prototype, and contribute to scale-up and compliance with H&S and quality standards required by the automotive industry. * Imperial College London -- who will use modern analytical techniques on the cells as development progresses * Lancaster University -- who will contribute advanced engineering simulations to improve cell performance * MEP Technologies Ltd -- will be responsible for the reconfigurable battery assembly including the BMS, and will support activities around cell and battery thermals. * University of Warwick -- who will advise on automation and process design. LiNa's design lends itself to lean, low-cost mass-manufacture, using mature, continuous processes. C-ratings, volumetric and gravimetric energy densities will exceed state-of-the-art LiB platforms. Cost models validated by E4Tech confirm that LiNa's solution will undercut LiB processing costs. By project-end, the partners will have improved cell performance to meet product targets. Manufacturing will be optimised for scale-up, decarbonisation and recycling. Exploitation and manufacturing strategies will be complete. The prototype will be constructed and operated to demonstrate TRL6\. Performance will be independently validated by a third-party expert. Potential end users and investors will have the data they advised they require to support the final development phases.

Freight accounts for 20% of road vehicle emissions (EFTE, 2018) so there is substantial interest in switching to zero-emission trucks to help meet the UK's target of net zero carbon by 2050\. However, these trucks need large, heavy batteries and their range is limited. Lithium ion batteries (LIBs) present a substantial fire risk in the event of a thermal runaway (caused, for example, by overcharging, overheating, short-circuits, impacts or collisions). Therefore, electric trucks with large LIBs present a potential risk of severe fire and injury, particularly when in urban areas, and/or carrying hazardous cargo. Current solutions, such as aluminium and carbon fibre reinforced plastic, are unable to withstand the high temperature of such fires, which can be 800-1000°C. This project will develop a new high-temperature composite material suitable for large battery enclosures. It will also prototype a battery module for an electric/hybrid truck therefrom. The resulting battery pack will be lighter and safer than current solutions, addressing road freight sector concerns regarding range/payload and LIB safety. The primary project output will be a prototype high-temperature battery pack designed for electric/hybrid trucks that has been robustly tested. The partners will also develop a detailed exploitation plan, including scale-up and route to market. This project will generate additional sales revenues for the 3 SME partners and create new highly skilled jobs. It will generate value stream revenues throughout the wider UK supply chain with a high potential for exports.

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RD graphene Ltd has invented a transformational process for the manufacture of 3D porous graphene with perfect quality for energy storage devices. The development team currently develops supercapacitor cells which demonstrate incredibly high energy and power density. This technology will disrupt the energy storage industry as the patent pending process is the only one in the world which is capable of creating these graphene-based supercapacitors with very few, simple process steps with cycle times in seconds using existing reel-to-reel technology and therefore removing the barrier to commercialisation completely. This project will demonstrate the value proposition of this innovation by building a complete energy storage system ('battery') with a unique Battery Management System in an innovative EV architecture to validate the use of these systems.