Solar innovation aims to decarbonise industrial heat production

Heat and steam production is one of the most energy-intensive parts of many industrial processes and are often powered by fossil fuels. Decarbonising this stage of production could make a significant difference to the overall carbon footprint of many industries.

Adelaide-based company Tooloo Pty Ltd has developed a modular concentrated solar power system for industrial heating. Node Leader Scott, who leads our industrial decarbonisation work, recently had the pleasure of meeting founder Mohammad Vashahi working out of the Stone & Chalk innovation hub at Lot Fourteen.

Their mechanical tracker uses thermal expansion and a Fresnel lens to follow the sun throughout the day without motors or electronics. The system can reach temperatures of up to 1000°C, delivering heat as steam, hot oil or hot air for sectors including mining and materials manufacturing.

Scott noted that the design uses common materials, can be manufactured locally, and requires minimal maintenance, qualities that make it well suited to remote or off-grid applications. Powering Australia will be watching the development of this promising tech with interest.