1

Why the project matters

Solar energy applications in industry are mainly used for temperatures between 80 and 200 °C, with most applications at the lower end of this range. Proven and efficient solutions exist, but they need to be adapted for industries operating at higher temperatures such as the key industrial sectors chemicals and plastics that play a vital role in the Mediterranean economy. The solar system to be used in this project will rely on 600 kWe PV system to provide heat at about 300°C through electric heaters using the Power to Heat (P2H) concept. Using P2H concept for process heat at 300°C is a novel approach. It is expected to decrease fossil fuel use in the plastics plant (pilot in Türkiye) by 18-22%, through using solar energy efficiently. When solar energy is in excess, packed-bed thermal energy storage (TES), will store heat for periods when radiation is unavailable. Integrating TES in the system will avoid using expensive batteries and make it more energy efficient at lower cost.

2

What it aims to achieve

• To demonstrate a new solar energy system using photovoltaics and electric heaters to produce heat at 300°C for plastics manufacturing, cutting fossil fuel use by up to 22%.
• To integrate thermal energy storage made from local waste materials to store excess solar energy and improve system efficiency without expensive batteries.
• To develop tools for replicating the solution in other sectors like textiles, agri-food, and buildings, supported by training materials and open living labs to spread knowledge and skills.

3

Expected change

• Industrial plants across the Mediterranean potentially adopting more efficient solar systems, reducing fossil fuel use and cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
• Proven models for solar-based heating will be available for replication in key sectors like textiles and agri-food, supporting wider use of clean energy.
• Stronger cross-border cooperation beyond the project, enabling shared solutions and joint efforts on industrial decarbonisation.

4

What the project delivers

• Development of a thermal energy storage (TES) system using locally available materials.
• Development of an innovative Power to Heat (P2H) system for industrial applications.
• A business plan to replicate the GREENOLIVE solution in other sectors.
• A training kit to enhance skills in solar energy systems for professionals and educators.
• A white paper with recommendations for policymakers, educators, and industry stakeholders.

5

Who benefits

• Industries benefiting from cost reduction and sustainability.
• Communities gaining improved environment and economic opportunities.
• Environmental organizations advancing pollution reduction and climate goals.
• Workforce enjoying better conditions.
• Technical professionals acquiring skills in renewable energy systems.