GreEnergy: An Algae-powered Lamp 

Project Description

The pressure for sustainable forms of energy emerges from the overarching problem surrounding global warming. With the energy sector demanding 97.2% of all fossil fuels in 2015, and the electricity division producing 41% of carbon dioxide in 2012, it is indisputable that the solution to global warming is through revolutionising electricity production and consumption. 

GreEnergy is a solution that exploits the electrical power of algae when introduced into a microbial fuel cell (MFC). An MFC is a bioelectric system which generates electricity by promoting the transfer of electrons from the nitrifying bacteria substrate through a circuit and into the Spirulina algae substrate. This concept is explored through the research-led product design of an innovative lighting solution. 

GreEnergy’s MFC system is fully sustainable, as it contains liquid nutrients for each substrate to avoid undernourishment when converting the chemical energy to electrical energy. In order to activate the MFC feeding process and ‘charge’ the lamp when not performing efficiently, the users hold down the lid button to initiate the feed transfer into the MFC chambers. This button is simultaneously responsible for controlling the power to the LEDs and the lid’s touch sensitive groove provides a dimming function. Investigation and experimentation into caustic lighting influenced the chosen outer casing design, which features a detachable component. The interchangeable 3D printed glass outer casing can thus be replaced from a selection of designs to align with varying user preferences. 

Overall, the project aims to catalyse a shift in perspective on sustainable energy consumption, and to inspire future algae-powered innovations, demonstrating that GreEnergy is a practical application of an algae powered MFC. 

Bio

Kiara is a graduating student studying a Bachelor of Product Design at the University of Technology Sydney. Her passion to develop physical and digital solutions emanates from a drive to catalyse genuine social & environmental change. Her core value of human-centered design drives her interest in UX/UI design. Kiara is strongly motivated to continue learning, growing and potentially excel with the opportunity of hands-on work experience in the field of product or UX/UI design after graduating in 2021.  

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