Nanotechnology for energy efficiency

Non-renewable energy sources like fossil fuels are non-sustainable and associated with the emission of greenhouse gasses – a dominant cause of global warming. Thus, It is paramount to develop technologies that exploit renewable energy and ensure environmental safety.

Many prominent organisations, companies, and government agencies have supported this annual awareness event. The goal is to share tips, tools and stories promoting energy efficiency's multiple benefits, from lower costs to healthier homes. Energy efficiency is the cheapest, quickest way to meet our energy needs, cut consumer bills and reduce pollution. Dr Tabitha Amollo, a lecturer and chairperson of the physics department, Faculty of Science at Egerton University, is doing her bit for energy efficiency in Kenya. She specialises in nanotechnology, nanomaterials, organic photovoltaics, and thermoelectricity.

“My research is focused on developing cutting-edge solar energy conversion nanomaterials to fabricate a portable solar-driven refrigeration system. These energy conversion devices will ensure a reliable supply of efficient, clean energy that would mitigate today's climate change issues.” Her vision is to have Africa powered by renewable energy sources. Non-renewable energy sources like fossil fuels are non-sustainable and associated with the emission of greenhouse gasses – a dominant cause of global warming. Thus, It is paramount to develop technologies that exploit renewable energy and ensure environmental safety. Solar energy is abundantly available in Africa.

“Organic solar cells (OSCs), including polymer solar cells and dye-sensitized solar cells, offer a cost-effective route to solar energy conversion. They also have advantages in terms of flexibility, lightweight, low-cost production, and large-area applications”, she explains.

Central to the performance of OSCs is the development of functional materials, and in this regard, various nanomaterials are being developed, including graphene, the “wonder material of the century”. It is characterised by high carrier mobility, optical transparency, surface area, material flexibility and mechanical strength and is thus suited for application in OSCs.

Her project aims to develop nanomaterials for effective conversion of solar energy to electricity in OSCs, in turn, to be used in the design and fabrication of portable refrigeration units which can be used in remote areas of Africa to improve the livelihoods of the populace, at local health facilities for the preservation of medicines and vaccines, and in agriculture to refrigerate perishable produce to mitigate post-harvest losses and – since it will be portable – during the transport of agricultural products. "Organic photovoltaic technology will impact socioeconomics and roll over into technological advancements on the continent. As a clean, renewable energy source, it will positively impact the problem of climate change in the long run,” asserts Dr Amollo."

Heidi Sonnekus | FAR-LeaF Program