At ENERparking, we are thrilled to announce an innovative collaboration with the biotechnology company Bromalgae to integrate their advanced photobioreactors into our solar canopy projects. This groundbreaking partnership combines our expertise in clean energy generation with Bromalgae’s air purification technology, offering a comprehensive solution to enhance urban quality of life.
ENERparking and Bromalgae: A Synergy for Cities
At ENERparking, we believe that combining our solar canopies with Bromalgae’s system represents a major leap forward in urban sustainability. While our canopies generate clean energy, Bromalgae focuses on air quality improvement, delivering an integrated solution for greener and more liveable cities.
Combined Benefits of ENERparking and Bromalgae:
- Clean Energy:Our solar canopies harness sunlight to produce carbon-free electricity, reducing reliance on fossil fuels..
- Air Purification:The photobioreactors capture and transform atmospheric pollutants like CO2 and NO2, significantly improving air quality in urban areas.
- Integrated Efficiency:Combining solar power generation with air purification maximises urban space utilisation, benefiting both the environment and public health.
ENERparking and Bromalgae Teams Collaborating Together
What Are Microalgae Photobioreactors?
Bromalgae develops closed photobioreactors (PBRs) that use microalgae to purify the air in high-pollution urban areas. These systems leverage the exceptional photosynthetic abilities of microalgae to absorb CO2 and NO2 from the air while releasing oxygen. Installed alongside our solar canopies, they provide an all-encompassing solution for urban sustainability.
How Photobioreactors Work: The Purification Process
Photobioreactors transform air purification into a seamless and continuous process powered by microalgae photosynthesis:
- Air Intake and Pre-Filtration: Urban polluted air is drawn in using a blower and passes through pre-filters, removing harmful particles and microorganisms before entering the reactor.
- Bubbling and Gas Absorption: Pre-filtered air is bubbled into the photobioreactor, where microalgae absorb CO2 and NO2. This process ensures effective gas dispersion and absorption.
- Photosynthesis: Microalgae use sunlight and nutrients to convert CO2 and NO2 into oxygen and biomass through light reactions and the Calvin cycle. Light and nutrient levels are optimised continuously to maximise photosynthetic efficiency.
- Oxygen Release: Oxygen produced during photosynthesis is released into the atmosphere, improving air quality in the surrounding area.
- Harvesting and Recirculation: Microalgae biomass is harvested via centrifugation, and the remaining liquid medium is recirculated into the system.
Impact on Urban Areas: Key Benefits of Photobioreactors
Integrating photobioreactors into our solar canopy projects offers an innovative approach to tackling urban pollution challenges. Key benefits include:
- Reduction of Airborne Pollutants: Effectively captures CO2 and NO2, lowering their concentration in high-traffic urban areas.
- Improved Air Quality: Oxygen released during microalgae photosynthesis enhances air quality, fostering healthier living environments.
- Continuous Monitoring: Sensors track CO2 and NO2 levels, adjusting light intensity and system parameters to ensure efficient air purification under any weather conditions.