Advancing Circular Innovation at HOPE26 Workshop Spotlight on GREENOLIVE Project
As part of the HOPE26 Workshop: “Rethinking Resources Through a Circular Economy”, held on 31 March 2026 at AASTMT – Abukir Campus, Alexandria, an engaging and impactful presentation highlighted innovative pathways toward sustainable industrial decarbonization and circular energy solutions.
The session brought together a distinguished group of experts from academia, industry, and international research collaborations, creating a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange and interdisciplinary dialogue. The workshop emphasized the role of circular bioeconomy, sustainable energy systems, and real-world innovation in addressing pressing environmental challenges.
Within this context, a presentation on the GREENOLIVE project was delivered by Prof. Nahla Zakzouk, Head of the Electrical and Control Engineering Department, AASTMT. The project focuses on advancing solar-driven decarbonization of industrial processes across the Mediterranean region .
The presentation showcased an innovative approach combining photovoltaic systems with electric heating (Power-to-Heat) to generate high-temperature industrial heat (up to 300°C), alongside thermal energy storage solutions using locally available materials. This integrated system aims to significantly reduce fossil fuel consumption and support the transition toward cleaner and more cost-effective industrial energy systems.
In addition, the project addresses key regional challenges, including heavy dependence on fossil fuels, high emissions from energy-intensive industries, and the need for scalable renewable heating technologies. The GREENOLIVE initiative also promotes knowledge transfer through training programs, replication tools, and policy recommendations to maximize its impact across sectors such as textiles, agri-food, and manufacturing.
The workshop further served as a key dissemination platform for EU-funded projects, highlighting collaborative research efforts and their tangible contributions to sustainability and circular innovation.
This event reinforced the importance of integrating research, industry, and policy frameworks to accelerate the transition toward a circular and low-carbon economy, while empowering stakeholders to implement practical and scalable solutions.
