Exciting emerging technology takes off, powered by RenEnergy
Technology is at the heart of what RenEnergy does. Driven by curiosity, discovering new technology and exploring alternative applications of existing technology, the company is excited to have played a part in the development of a light aircraft powered by a solar charged battery.
Since 2006, RenEnergy has been passionate pioneers in renewable energy – designing and installing innovative solar solutions for businesses. The company is a leading installer of solar carports and electric vehicle charging stations. The electric vehicle market is booming, with record sales having been achieved in December 2022. RenEnergy was progressive by developing carport solutions when the electric vehicle market was still in its infancy and is now well-positioned to assist businesses to turn their carparks into efficient power generating and charging structures.
But does it end with cars? Absolutely not.
Excited to see how our investment and research into energy storage and carport solutions could be applied to aviation, Damian and Lori Baker collaborated with Tim Bridge on his project. Tim is the founder of NUNCATS, the non-profit social enterprise that is developing the aircraft. He also leads the technical team at RenEnergy. Damian Baker, MD of RenEnergy, says: “We are thrilled to be part of Tim’s project. We get super excited about technology and innovation, and exploring useful applications of it, really inspires us.”
RenEnergy developed a robust timber and steel structure to support the high-spec solar panels to charge the aircraft’s battery. It is based on one of their innovative solar carport designs, modified for aviation. It is providing the solar energy required in the development phase, and it will form the basis of future micro-grid charging stations.
Tim says that there are more than two billion people living in rural communities in developing countries that don’t have access to basic services. “Access to healthcare and education is limited because communities lack critical transport infrastructure.” says Tim. Light aviation plays a critical role in connecting remote communities to infrastructure. Reliable aircraft can offer lifesaving and life-changing services. However, rural airfields are notoriously under-capacitated. Refuelling facilities are insufficient and too far apart, conventional fuel is expensive and not to mention, unsustainable.
Having immersed himself in deeply understanding the challenge, this is exactly why Tim started the project – to be a lifeline to these communities. The planes, nicknamed electric sky Jeeps, are designed to be simple to assemble, robust, capable of operating in rugged conditions and on water or land (#electricskyjeeps). By establishing a network of micro-grids for charging, sustainable, resilient transport systems can be created. These can be deployed anywhere the sun shines. These electric sky Jeeps will provide a new option for governments, charities and NGO’s to deliver services to remote areas. The technology will likely not only be used in developing regions, but also in the UK and other developed countries, especially as the technology evolves and flying ranges increase. There are several additional applications for solar powered planes, that includes recreational flying, tourism and sports.
“RenEnergy operates in Africa, and I believe that there is a large target market for electric vehicles, including aircraft, in the region. This was the perfect opportunity for us to take technology to new heights, so to speak.” Damian says. Exploring how technology can provide solutions to various types of challenges, aids us in delivering high-quality bespoke solutions for all types of clients with varied goals and physical environments – from hospitals to schools, huge manufacturing concerns to sports clubs.
The plane has taken its first test flight at Old Buckenham Airfield in Norfolk. The exciting first flight forms part of the flight-testing programme that kicked off in December, where the airworthiness, range and utility of the plane is being proved and refined. Says Damian: “Congratulations, Tim, on completing the first successful test flight, such a crucial milestone in your project. We’re so proud to be on the same team!”.