Cleaner Materials

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to analyse the capability of algal oil to produce electricity in a micro‐grid unit such that the unit functions as a singular entity and no external input is required to run it. Design/methodology/approach: A systematic model has been designed to cater the electricity demand of small‐ scale industries. A hypothetical case of small‐scale sewing manufacturing unit has been undertaken to test the validity of the design. Ashima foundation, a learning centre located in New Delhi was chosen to examine the power consumption and examine the validity of the theoretical model proposed. Findings: The study examines the use of algae for electricity production. The various factors involved for the algaculture were calculated and presented which can be used for practical implications. The results show that the algal technology can be used to generate power and run small‐scale industries. Research implications: The results obtained are purely hypothetical and are based on assumptions which have helped conclude the study. The practical results might vary. Practical implications: This research lays the groundwork for the use of algal oil as a Distributed Generation (DG) source in a micro‐grid for small‐scale industries to run independently without any assistance from exter- nal sources. Originality/value: It is seen that the usage of algal oil in micro‐grids is a pioneering attempt which highlights the importance of usage of algae for an efficient and sustainable development.