Perth, 22 November 2022: ClearVue Technologies Limited (ASX: CPV) has partnered with Qatar University and Murdoch University to develop energy-efficient, solar-integrated greenhouses to address food security challenges in arid climates.
This pioneering research initiative leverages earlier advancements made by Murdoch University and ClearVue’s patented solar photovoltaic glazing technology to develop innovative solutions for enhancing greenhouse performance in extreme environments, advancing both energy efficiency and food production.
“We are excited to partner with Qatar University and Murdoch University on this significant research project,” said ClearVue Technologies CEO Martin Deil. “This collaboration highlights our ability to innovate and apply technologies in diverse contexts to solve global challenges, such as food security and sustainability. Our collaboration with Qatar and Murdoch Universities underscores the importance of cross-disciplinary innovation in creating scalable solutions to global food and sustainability challenges.”
The research, titled “Concept Design and Validation of an Energy-efficient Clear Solar Glass Greenhouse for Higher Food Production in Arid Climate of Qatar”, will address critical challenges of food security in dry regions like Qatar, where water scarcity and extreme climates hinder traditional agricultural practices. The initiative is supported by a $500,000 grant from the Qatar National Research Fund.
“The optimal greenhouse would enable year-round crop cultivation considering factors such as energy-efficiency, climate control and crop growth strategies,” said Dr. Ali Arefi, Lead Chief Investigator at Murdoch University’s Harry Butler Institute. “The greenhouse will be transformed into a microgrid blended with an energy storage system that can operate as a standalone energy system.”
ClearVue will provide access to its advanced greenhouse research facility at Murdoch University. The facility includes its state-of-the-art spectrally selective glass panels as part of the insulated glazing units deployed onto the greenhouse designed to enhance energy capture and efficiency. ClearVue will also contribute in-kind technical expertise over the three-year term, supported by Lead Scientist Dr. Mikhail Vasiliev and other ClearVue tech team members.
ClearVue’s solar PV glazing technology enables greenhouses to operate as microgrids with energy storage systems and advanced cooling technologies tailored for arid environments.
“ClearVUe’s commitment to sustainable innovation is evidenced by the significant energy offsets achieved by our world-first solar glass greenhouse constructed in 2021, which reduced energy consumption by nearly 40% within two years,” said Mr Diel. “We expect research outcomes from this project to result in peer-reviewed publications and practical, scalable greenhouse solutions.”
