(305g) Proteas: A Platform for Advancing and Demonstrating Renewable Energy and Seawater Desalination Technologies

The Platform for Research, Observation, and Technological Applications in Solar Energy (PROTEAS) supports fundamental and industrial research in critical areas such as solar energy, energy storage, hybrid energy systems, grid integration, intelligent energy management, and seawater desalination. Located on the southern coast of the Republic of Cyprus, it stands out as one of the most technically diverse and innovative research facilities in the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East (EMME) region, the European Union, and beyond. The platform provides a unique environment for the development, optimization, testing, and demonstration of pioneering renewable energy and water-related technologies at Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 3–7, under Mediterranean climatic conditions.

The facility synergistically integrates key enabling technologies, serving as a versatile test bench for advancing groundbreaking innovations both individually and in combination. At present, PROTEAS incorporates two concentrated solar thermal (CST) technologies for high-temperature process heat provision and electricity generation: a central receiver system and two Stirling dishes. In addition, the platform hosts a photovoltaic system and a wind turbine, further enhancing its renewable energy capabilities.

To advance sustainable energy storage solutions, the facility includes a dual-charge molten salt-based thermal energy storage unit, capable of both heat-to-heat and electricity-to-heat conversion, functioning as a Carnot battery. It is also equipped with an electrochemical battery pack, while a compressed air storage unit is currently under construction. By integrating these components within a smart electric microgrid configuration, PROTEAS facilitates a polygeneration and multi-storage system, closely resembling heterogeneous energy systems.

A core research focus of PROTEAS is the integration of seawater desalination technologies within renewable energy frameworks. The facility includes multiple effect distillation (MED) and forward osmosis (FO) units, harnessing thermal energy from CST processes in a co-generative manner to enhance efficiency and sustainability.

This paper presents the overall architecture, capabilities, and ongoing research activities at PROTEAS, demonstrating its role as a key enabler of clean energy and water technologies. As an open-access international research platform, it supports scientists, engineers, technology developers, industry stakeholders, and policymakers in fostering innovation, commercialization, and the broader adoption of renewable energy solutions. By addressing critical challenges in climate change mitigation and energy transition, PROTEAS contributes to the advancement of a sustainable, resilient, and carbon-neutral economy.