Written by: Suhaib Shams
The SHIP2FAIR project has achieved a milestone by demonstrating the capacity of hybrid systems, which combine solar thermal and photovoltaic energy, to decarbonize industrial heat while achieving cost savings of up to forty percent. Decarbonizing the industrial heat sector faces significant challenges in the energy transition pathway, especially in low- and medium-temperature processes that still rely heavily on fossil fuels.
The European-funded project was launched with the goal of developing integrated solar thermal and photovoltaic technologies for heat and electricity generation on an industrial scale. After two years of development, the project has proven that combining energy efficiency, waste heat recovery, and hybrid solar technologies is technically and economically feasible, as well as capable of significantly improving energy use and reducing emissions in industrial environments.
From Modeling to Practical Construction
The project's developments rely on careful analysis and custom engineering for each site. The project consortium identified validated thermal profiles for the main demonstration site in Spain and other sites in Cyprus and Portugal, providing a foundation for technical and economic assessments that highlight the potential for full industrial decarbonization by 2050. The results show that specific energy efficiency measures, such as waste heat recovery, can reduce thermal demand by up to twenty percent, while integrating solar technologies and electric heating contributes to lowering total energy costs by up to forty percent.
Building on these foundations, a comprehensive integration concept was developed that combines solar thermal collectors, photovoltaics, an innovative electric thermal energy storage unit, and existing infrastructure within a flexible, integrated system. Preparations are progressing steadily toward operating the demonstration plant at the industrial facilities of the project partner. The site preparation phase has concluded, and construction work has begun, coinciding with the finalization of detailed engineering designs for all essential components.
Technology Optimization and Knowledge Exchange
In addition, work is underway to optimize technologies that ensure the scalability of these systems. The team has finalized the design of the thermal storage system and identified refined oil as a promising medium for heat transfer and thermal storage. Upgraded solar thermal collectors operating at higher temperatures are also being tested, alongside the validation of advanced control strategies to ensure safe, efficient, and economic performance.
Commitment to transparency, knowledge exchange, and the widespread dissemination of research results is a fundamental pillar of the project's strategy. A digital platform has been created to provide a single access point for scientific publications, results, and technical expertise for researchers, industry stakeholders, and policymakers, offering a flexible and proven model for industries aiming for net-zero emissions.
