Development of a HIGH Capacity FLEXible Energy Storage System for Mini-Grid Application in Sub-Sahara Africa (High ESS)

This collaborative project will **develop and demonstrate** a new technology (HIGHFLEX) that consists of a high-capacity flexible energy storage systems (HIGHFLEX ESS) integrated with innovative Battery Management System (BMS); Power Conditioning Unit (PCU) and intelligent monitoring and performance management system (Digital Twin) for mini grid applications in hot climates. The new technology is a portable and scalable system that facilitates:

* Quick development of mini grids in SSA. * Storage of high-capacity energy generated from clean power sources during peak hours for off-peak utilisation.

* Delivering reliable and affordable power system through innovative solutions e.g., Digital twin, second life battery, real-time performance management and heat control system.

The project's vision is to rapidly accelerate access to affordable off-grid electricity from clean energy sources in SSA.

The project taps into the expanding global mini grid markets to offer affordable energy access for social mobility and inclusion in SSA communities not served by main power grids. HIGHFLEX will facilitate steady supply of electricity to rural and unserved areas and reduce energy access gaps between rural and urban communities in SSA where inaccessibility to affordable electricity is one of the main drivers of poverty to over 600 million people.

This project has chosen Nigeria as a case for deployment of HIGHFLEX technology because of its over 200 million population and majority of its rural population (48% of its total population) do not have access to affordable and low carbon electricity.

The project addresses barrier (access to electricity) to adoption of advancements in healthcare system; developing new technologies for agriculture, commerce, education; and entrepreneurship. HIGHFLEX makes it possible to deliver low carbon electricity to unlock sustainable economic development in SSA communities. This will empower women and children to lead more productive lives and have a better wellbeing.

This will in turn encourage gender equality by learning digital and modern skills, which gives girls and women equal access to education, healthcare and enterprise.

Furthermore, access to clean energy via mini grid will reduce crime and social unrest, since majority of the population would be productively engaged (Bloomberg 2020). This will lead to improved human security and cohesive communities and societies driven by mutual objective for sustainable development. HIGHFLEX will accelerate access to affordable and low carbon clean energy from bio-diesel, solar and wind (SDG 7), which lower environmental impacts from continued use of diesel-powered generators in Nigeria (world's leading generator consumer) to combat climate change effects (SDG 13).