Challenge
DIAS project addresses the critical challenge of limited energy storage in Cyprus, which leads to significant renewable energy wastage despite the country’s abundant solar power potential.
Cyprus experiences over 3,300 hours of sunlight annually but relies heavily on energy imports, with renewable energy contributing only 16.9% of the electricity mix in 2022, far below the 2030 target of 23%. Due to insufficient storage facilities, approximately 20% of solar energy produced annually is wasted, highlighting the urgent need for innovative energy storage solutions to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability.
Solution
DIAS project provides an innovative solution to Cyprus’ energy storage challenges by developing an efficient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly thermal energy storage (TES) system.
This system will enhance the utilization of renewable energy by:
- Bridging the gap between renewable energy supply and demand.
- Increasing energy grid efficiency and flexibility by converting electricity surpluses into heat energy for use during peak demand.
The TES technology, derived from recycled construction and demolition waste (CDW), will support industries like breweries, plastics, and food manufacturing by offering a sustainable and economical heat solution.
Additionally, the project contributes to Cyprus’ green energy transition by addressing both energy storage and CDW management, benefiting the entire ecosystem—from energy producers to consumers—while advancing the use of TES in high-temperature.
Outcomes & Impact
DIAS project aims to transform Cyprus’s energy landscape by addressing key challenges through the development of an innovative TES system based on recycled CDW and geopolymerization technology. The main outcomes and impacts include:
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability: TES systems enable efficient storage of surplus renewable energy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, improving energy security, and advancing Cyprus and the EU’s sustainability goals.
Wide Industrial Applicability: The modular, scalable TES system is adaptable for both large and small-scale applications across industries requiring steam, such as food production, healthcare, power generation, and manufacturing.
Environmental and Economic Benefits: Utilizing locally sourced demolition waste reduces system costs while offering energy conservation, cost savings, and grid stability, creating a competitive advantage.
Global Applicability: The innovative TES technology sets a precedent for adoption in regions with similar energy challenges, promoting renewable energy use and reducing environmental impact.
Job Creation and Economic Growth: The project fosters employment in research, development, manufacturing, and maintenance, contributing to local economic development.
