We are pleased to announce the finalists of the Innovation & Technology Challenge 2025. The Challenge takes place at the T&T Energy Conference 2025 on February 11th at 12:00pm. At that time the 5 finalists will present their innovations and then conference delegates made up of energy sector executives and industry experts will vote on the most innovative project. In 2025, seventeen applications which were received and reviewed by an expert committee. The top five applications were selected to move forward.
In 2025 the following projects have been selected (in no particular order)
1.Rum and Sargassum - Generation of sargassum-based biofuel for sustainable low-carbon transportation in the Caribbean
The project intends to produce renewable biogas from locally sourced waste, such as sargassum seaweed and rum distillery wastewater. This innovative biofuel provides a sustainable, cost-effective energy alternative, reducing dependency on imported fossil fuels.
It is a pioneering market solution with a novel biogas formula, applicable for direct integration into conventional gasoline vehicles through CNG kits. The project’s approach repurposes abundant local waste, utilizing patented anaerobic digestion techniques validated with over 400,000 data points.
2. Neptune Biosystems - Artificial hydroelectric power peneration
Artificial hydroelectric power generation is a novel method for converting low temperature waste heat from industrial sources, into low-cost electricity using hydroelectric turbines. Artificial hydropower plants allow for the first time, thermal energy to be used to energize liquid driven turbomachinery. This characteristic enables the use of low-cost, high efficiency hydroelectric turbines in any geographical location, while enabling low temperature thermal resources that would otherwise be rejected into the environment to be economically converted into low carbon electricity.
3. TOSL Engineering - Energy Efficiency through the utilization of low carbon cooling technology in Small Island Developing States (SIDS)
This project involves the first implementation of an energy-efficient district cooling system in Trinidad and Tobago, designed specifically for Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The project, in alignment with the National Cooling Strategy for Trinidad and Tobago, provides an efficient way to air condition a network of buildings which involves the distribution of chilled water from a centralized source to multiple buildings via a network of insulated pipes.
This project, led by TOSL Engineering Limited in partnership with the Ministry of Planning and Development and UNDP, focuses on reducing electricity consumption and greenhouse gas emissions by utilizing environmentally friendly, low-Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants.
The adaptation tailors this innovation to the Caribbean context by introducing to Trinidad & Tobago 100% ozone-friendly refrigerants in a brownfield application while emphasizing energy efficiency, making it a novel approach for this market.
4. Ramps Logistics - Mawi - a generative AI solution for customs brokerage
In Trinidad and Tobago's ports, where 20,000+ containers are processed monthly, efficient customs clearance is vital for supporting the energy sector’s operations. MAWI is a generative AI solution that transforms customs brokerage by automating every step of the process with speed, accuracy, and compliance at its core. This revolutionary software eliminates the need for manual data entry, saving significant time and reducing human error while ensuring strict adherence to international customs standards. By automating these tasks, MAWI guarantees fast, accurate customs clearance that keeps goods moving seamlessly through the supply chain. It empowers Trinidad and Tobago’s energy sector to modernize its trade infrastructure, improving efficiency and reliability in international freight solutions.
5. 3BA Allmanda Enterprise - 3BAELS Solar Thermal Powered Dirt Battery
The ECOBATT solar thermal-powered sand/dirt battery, developed by 3BAEL, is an innovative energy storage solution built using waste materials. It provides a sustainable, cost-effective method for storing and distributing energy, targeting rural communities and regions with unreliable or expensive power grids. This solution addresses the critical need for affordable and renewable energy, particularly in the Caribbean, Latin America, and African markets.
ECOBATT uses a thermoelectric conversion system and stored thermal energy to produce electricity efficiently. The battery, which has a lifespan of 15-25 years, can store up to 100 MWh of thermal energy, providing consistent power for homes, farms, and industries. It is a versatile product that can be installed underground, above ground, or mid-ground, ensuring adaptability to different terrains and applications.