_{Source: ncelenviro.org}

A team of Canadian researchers has unveiled an energy system designed to meet the full spectrum of a building’s energy needs—electricity, heating, hydrogen, and propane—using only renewable sources. The system combines solar power and biomass, offering a cleaner alternative to traditional fossil fuels. It is particularly aimed at supporting the transition to decarbonised buildings, a key goal in the global fight against climate change.

At the heart of the system lies a clever integration of solar thermal energy and biomass pyrolysis. Solar energy is captured and stored as heat, while organic waste is converted into useful gases and biochar. These processes contribute to a steam-powered cycle that generates electricity and heat, while also enabling the production of hydrogen and propane—two clean fuels with increasing importance in sustainable energy strategies.

The system’s performance achieves energy and exergy efficiencies of over 65%, while producing nearly 1,700 kilowatts of electricity, over 9,500 kilowatts of heat, and substantial quantities of hydrogen and propane. The researchers also investigated how changes in temperature, pressure, and steam flow impact output, uncovering methods to optimise the system for maximum efficiency and flexibility.

Beyond its technical achievements, the study highlights the broader potential of integrated renewable systems. By turning waste into energy and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, this innovation offers a practical path toward greener buildings and more resilient communities. The authors suggest that future work could explore new storage materials and economic modelling to bring this concept closer to real-world application.