Wageningen University & Research (WUR) has launched the SUN-PERFORM project, aiming to revolutionize sustainable fuel production using algae. This innovative initiative combines synthetic biology and nanotechnology to enhance algae’s light-capturing efficiency for photosynthesis. This cutting-edge research could transform the aviation and maritime industries, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional fuels in sectors struggling to transition to electric power.
Funded by Horizon Europe, SUN-PERFORM benefits from a €4 million investment, of which €1.5 million supports the efforts at WUR. This funding is part of Horizon Europe’s broader mission to address climate change and support the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals through innovative research. The program, from 2021 to 2027, boasts a substantial budget of €93.5 billion, focusing on strategic international partnerships and impactful innovations.
The challenge of renewable fuels
Traditional methods of algae-based fuel production have faced significant hurdles. The high energy and nutrient demands have historically made these processes inefficient and costly. However, the SUN-PERFORM project seeks to overcome these challenges by leveraging advanced technologies. The project aims to enhance the conversion efficiency of sunlight to fuel and reduce production costs through innovative strategies. By focusing on sectors like aviation and maritime, which are difficult to electrify, the project targets areas where sustainable alternatives are urgently needed.
The project introduces a specialized film with quantum dots to convert unused light into usable energy for algae, potentially quadrupling solar-to-fuel efficiency. Researchers are also developing a biological battery within the algae to store solar energy and improve CO₂ absorption.
Innovative technology: synthetic biology and nanotechnology
At the heart of SUN-PERFORM’s strategy is integrating synthetic biology with nanotechnology. The project utilizes a novel film embedded with quantum dots to transform blue and ultraviolet light into red light, which algae can use more effectively for photosynthesis. This approach significantly increases the light available to algae, boosting their photosynthetic efficiency and energy uptake. Moreover, incorporating a biological battery within the algae allows for temporary storage of solar energy, addressing one of the critical limitations of solar fuel production.
The SUN-PERFORM project also involves other partners, including Universitaet Bielefeld, Politecnico Di Torino, and the University of Amsterdam.
