Swansea University has launched an initiative known as the Resilient Renewable Energy Access Through Community-Driven Holistic Development in Perovskite Solar Module Manufacturing (REACH-PSM). Funded by a £3 million grant from the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Ayrton Challenge Programme, this groundbreaking project aims to establish Africa’s first full-scale demonstration of next-generation solar manufacturing. Focused on addressing the continent’s pressing energy needs, REACH-PSM introduces a sustainable, cost-effective, and inclusive approach to expanding solar energy access.
Africa faces a severe energy crisis, with over 500 million people living without electricity. The reliance on traditional silicon-based solar panels has proven problematic due to high production costs, significant energy requirements, and a lack of suitability for local conditions. In contrast, perovskite solar modules (PSMs) offer a compelling alternative. These modules are cheaper to produce, require less energy, and use environmentally friendly materials. Their lightweight and flexible design makes them ideal for deployment in remote areas where infrastructure is often limited.
The REACH-PSM initiative focuses on empowering African communities by building local solar manufacturing capabilities in Nigeria, Rwanda, Kenya, and South Africa. By fostering local production, the project aims to reduce dependence on imported technologies, enhance energy self-sufficiency, and create job opportunities. Collaborating with prominent institutions such as Egerton University and Strathmore University in Kenya, the Federal University of Technology Owerri in Nigeria, and multiple universities in South Africa, REACH-PSM combines academic expertise with practical implementation. Additionally, private companies like Hinkley Recycling, SLS Energy, and Kijani Testing are playing crucial roles in advancing the project.
A key feature of REACH-PSM is its commitment to sustainability through a circular economy approach. Unlike conventional solar technologies that generate significant waste, the initiative incorporates efficient end-of-life processes, such as refurbishing, reusing, and recycling solar modules. This reduces environmental impact and ensures the long-term viability of renewable energy solutions.
Beyond its technological innovations, REACH-PSM seeks to influence energy policies across Africa. By demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of locally produced solar technologies, the project is expected to inspire the adoption of renewable energy-friendly policies. It also emphasizes community engagement through educational workshops and training programs to encourage sustainable practices and empower local populations.
Frances Wood, UKRI International Director, highlighted the transformative potential of REACH-PSM, calling it an exemplary model of interdisciplinary collaboration to address global challenges. Principal Investigator Professor Matthew Davies underscored the project’s vision of combining sustainable materials, photovoltaic technology, and community-driven solutions to create a more equitable and low-carbon energy future.
