UAE Entity Secures Patent for Advanced Solar Technology
Dubai, UAE – Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), through its Research and Development (R&D) Centre, has been granted a patent by the UK’s Intellectual Property Office for an innovative system designed to measure atmospheric attenuation. This development reinforces the UAE’s growing intellectual property portfolio and commitment to innovation in the energy sector.
Innovative System for Enhanced Solar Project Efficiency
The newly patented system provides a sophisticated method for identifying optimal locations for solar towers and heliostats within Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) projects. It achieves this through precise calculations derived from data collected by an autonomous vehicle and a drone, enabling meticulous assessment of atmospheric factors, such as dust, that can affect solar energy capture.
This invention offers a more efficient and accurate alternative to traditional radiation measurement techniques, which typically rely on fixed installations located at considerable distances. By providing localised and precise data, the system is expected to significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of CSP systems, allowing for better control over heliostat direction to maximise solar radiation utilisation.
Alignment with National Innovation Objectives
DEWA’s leadership highlighted that this patent aligns with the UAE’s strategic vision to foster creativity and innovation. The initiative supports national objectives such as UAE Centennial 2071, which aims for the UAE to be a global leader, and the National Innovation Strategy, which seeks to position the UAE among the most innovative nations worldwide. It also contributes to the Dubai Innovation Strategy, aspiring to make Dubai the most innovative city globally. The patent underscores a commitment to enriching scientific knowledge and advancing the clean and renewable energy sectors through specialized research.
Practical Application in Major Projects
The technology’s significance is further underscored by DEWA’s extensive use of CSP in the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park. Specifically, the 950 MW fourth phase of the park, which represents the world’s largest single-site investment project combining CSP and photovoltaic (PV) technologies under an Independent Power Producer (IPP) model, stands to benefit. This phase incorporates 700MW from CSP (600MW from a parabolic basin complex and 100MW from a solar tower) and 250MW from photovoltaic solar panels. Notably, it will feature the world’s tallest solar tower, measuring 262.44 metres, with a substantial thermal storage capacity of 15 hours, ensuring round-the-clock energy availability.
The successful registration of this patent marks a notable intellectual property achievement for a UAE government entity, reflecting the nation’s ongoing efforts to lead in scientific and technological advancements within the energy domain.