Deploying solar-powered refrigeration units integrated with the Internet of Things (IoT) for predictive maintenance, helping to reduce food wastage in fragile and crisis-affected Nigerian communities.
The lack of reliable, off-grid refrigeration in crisis-affected areas of Nigeria leads to food spoilage and loss, as well as limited access to essential services like lighting and access to energy for phone charging. Ultimately, this impacts economic stability and quality of life in these areas.
This innovation harnesses the power of sunlight and water in the form of ice battery technology to provide 24-hour cooling for up to four days. It features IoT for predictive maintenance, ensuring reliability and reducing breakdowns. The lease-to-own model with pay-as-you-go (PAYG) technology makes the innovation affordable for low-income users.
This innovation helps preserve food, offers essential services like lighting and phone charging, and supports economic stability in fragile and crisis-affected areas. Its unique value lies in its affordability, multi-functionality and extended temperature retention.
The team plans to pilot Koolhome Solar Freezer with 10 users over six months to test the feasibility and affordability in crisis-affected areas of Nigeria. There is an expected 50 percent reduction in breakdown incidents and maintenance visits due to IoT temperature monitoring.
Recent developments include the integration of a robust IoT technology for predictive maintenance across all deployed units, enhancing reliability and user satisfaction. Future plans involve expanding the PAYG model to ensure affordability and wider adoption, as well as refining the technology based on this pilot feedback. We also aim to enter the carbon credit market, leveraging the solar-powered solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create additional revenue streams for users. Sensitivities include ensuring consistent user education and support to maximize the benefits of the innovation.
