VGreEN Storage Solutions

Problem and implemented solution

Globally, over 1.2 billion people lack electricity, with 600 millions of these residing in Africa. In Sub-Saharan Africa, 80% of people face unreliable electricity, hindering economic and social activities. Increased energy demand from digitization and Industry 5.0, coupled with rapid urbanization, has strained national grids, especially in developing regions. This situation is compounded by the environmental impact of fossil fuel reliance.

South Africa (SA)
Nomination

New Industry And Energy

Topic

Energy storage systems

Estimated duration of implementation

24 Months

Implementation geography

South Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, BRICS+ Countries, European Union, Middle East and North Africa (MENA), United States

Description of competitive advantages

Longer Lifespan and Durability: Advantage: VRFB lasts up to 20 years, outlasting lithium-ion batteries. Benefit: Lower total cost of ownership with fewer replacements and maintenance. Scalability: Advantage: Modular and scalable for various applications. Benefit: Serves a wide market from residential to industrial, offering adaptable solutions. Localization and Socio-Economic Impact: Advantage: Utilizes South Africa’s abundant vanadium resources. Benefit: Supports the local economy, reduces costs, enhances supply chain, and creates jobs. Environmental Friendliness: Advantage: Non-toxic, recyclable, and safe compared to lithium-ion batteries. Benefit: Aligns with sustainability goals and net-zero targets, attracting eco-conscious markets. Energy Security for Off-Grid and Remote Areas: Advantage: Ideal for areas lacking electricity, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. Benefit: Provides reliable energy access and addresses energy poverty. Utilization of Local Vanadium: Advantage: Supports a localized value chain. Benefit: Promotes industrial growth, local economic development, and SME opportunities. Customization and Integration into Hybrid Systems: Advantage: Integrates with renewable energy sources. Benefit: Optimizes energy use and reduces environmental impact for sustainable energy models. Low Operating Costs and Safety: Advantage: Lower costs and fewer safety risks. Benefit: A safe, cost-efficient solution for stable energy storage. Socio-Economic Development and Job Creation: Advantage: Local vanadium refining and battery production create jobs. Benefit: Stimulates economic activity and skills development in local communities. Bilateral Relations with BRICS+ and Global Market Access: Advantage: Enhances global reach with BRICS+ countries. Benefit: Access to international markets, technology exchange, and partnerships, boosting global competitiveness. VGreEN Storage Solutions excels in sustainable energy storage through advanced VRFB technology, local resource utilization, and strategic BRICS+ collaborations.

List of awards and prizes, media articles about the organization/individual or the Practice

BRICS Young Innovators Prize Competition 2023 Awarded to: Kagiso Mampa, CEO of VGreEN Storage Solutions Recognition: Honored for innovation in energy storage technology and contribution to addressing global energy challenges. Significance: Acknowledged as a leading innovator in the BRICS+ group, emphasizing the role of South African innovation in the global energy market.

List of scientific works and IP connected with the Practice

Patents and Intellectual Property: Patent Title: "Vanadium Redox Flow Battery System and Method of Use" Status: Pending Description: Covers VGreEN’s VRFB system’s unique design and operational efficiencies. Inventors: Kagiso Mampa, Prof. Patricia Popoola Patent Title: "Method for Enhancing Vanadium Electrode Performance in Energy Storage Systems" Status: Pending Description: Focuses on improving vanadium electrode materials to boost battery performance and reduce degradation. Inventors: Mabizela Lionel, Kagiso Mampa

Contacts

For queries about BRICS Solutions Awards please reach out to Agency for Strategic Initiatives International Office Team:

Partners

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