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Caravel Press
Research and Reviews in Sustainability

Volume 1, 2025, Article 2025.003

Research and Reviews in Sustainability cover

Review

The Potential of Small-Scale Solar Organic Rankine Cycle Systems for Decentralised Power Generation in Africa

, , ,

1Department of Architecture and Built Environment, University of Nottingham, University Park, NG7 2RD, UK

2Department of Architecture and Built Environment, University of Nottingham, University Park, NG7 2RD, UK; School of Built Environment, Engineering and Computing, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds LS2 8AG, UK

* Correspondence: Meruyert Sovetova, [email protected]

Published
3 October 2025
Pages
32-47
Received
3 October 2025
DOI
10.5334/rss.1
Access
Open access, CC BY 4.0
Published 3 October 2025·Pages 32-47doi.org/10.5334/rss.1
Received 3 Oct 2025Open accessunder CC BY 4.0
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Abstract

Access to affordable and reliable electricity remains a significant challenge in Africa, particularly in remote and rural areas where centralised grid expansion is economically unfeasible. Small-scale solar organic Rankine cycle (SORC) systems offer a promising solution for decentralised power generation. The review explores the potential of solar organic Rankine cycle systems as a small-scale power generation solution for Africa with a specific focus on affordable components, including solar collectors, expanders and working fluids. It highlights the importance of cost-effective solutions for SORC. Despite considerable research on SORC systems globally, there is a noticeable lack of studies specifically addressing SORC performance in the climate conditions of Africa. Future research should prioritise optimising system design for this region, focusing on low-cost, robust solutions for variable solar input and limited infrastructure.

Keywords. solar organic Rankine cycle; SORC; off-grid power generation; Africa; rural electrification

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How to cite this article

Sovetova, M., Kutlu, C., Su, Y. and Riffat, S. (2025). 'The Potential of Small-Scale Solar Organic Rankine Cycle Systems for Decentralised Power Generation in Africa'. Research and Reviews in Sustainability, 1, pp. 32-47. https://doi.org/10.5334/rss.1

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