Parabolic Trough Collector Plants

Industrial Steam and Heat from Solar Energy

What We Do

Avant Energy is a South African business with a German technology partner.

We install, own, and operate solar thermal systems based on parabolic trough collector (PTC) technology. Unlike conventional solar systems that generate electricity, our systems are purpose-built to deliver high-temperature steam or thermal oil for industrial processes — providing a carbon-neutral thermal energy solution.

Our “own and operate” model enables clients to access clean heat without upfront capital expenditure. These systems are designed to integrate seamlessly with existing fossil fuel infrastructure, allowing industry to begin decarbonising without compromising process reliability.

Our team has been active in South Africa’s industrial energy and regulatory sectors since 2006. We focus on building trusted, long-term partnerships — supporting industry in its transition to a low-carbon future

Why PTC?

How it Works:

Parabolic Trough Collectors (PTC) are a proven solar thermal technology that capture the sun’s energy to produce high-temperature heat. The collectors consist of curved mirrors that track the sun throughout the day, focusing solar radiation onto a vacuum tube that contains a heat transfer fluid.

This fluid — typically synthetic oil — is heated as it circulates through the focal point of the mirrors. It is then transferred via a closed-loop system to a heat exchanger or boiler, where it is used to generate thermal oil, up to 350 °C, or steam, at temperatures and pressures suitable for industrial processes.

Unlike photovoltaic systems, PTC does not generate electricity. It is a direct thermal energy solution — ideal for industries that require process heat for manufacturing.

Why PTC for South African Industry?

South African manufacturers rely heavily on steam and thermal oil to convey heat within industrial plants. Today, this heat is typically generated using fossil fuels such as coal, heavy furnace oil (HFO), natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), paraffin and diesel.

However, the current energy landscape is shifting rapidly.

Key challenges include:

Escalating carbon tax obligations in South Africa.
Supply and price volatility of fossil fuels.
Pressure from head offices, clients, investors, and regulators to reduce emissions.

PTC offers a practical, low-risk response:

Reduces Scope 1 greenhouse gas emissions

By offsetting fossil fuel use with solar-derived thermal energy.

Integrates with existing systems

PTC systems can be installed alongside conventional boilers, allowing a hybrid approach without disrupting operations.

CAPEX-free option

Through Avant Energy’s “own and operate” model, clients can access the technology without upfront investment.

Proven and scalable

PTC is a mature technology, widely used internationally and adapted for South African conditions.

A First Step Toward Industrial Decarbonisation

While PTC is unlikely to replace fossil fuels entirely at most industrial sites, it offers an immediate and impactful step toward decarbonisation. With minimal operational risk and tangible emissions reductions, PTC is ideally suited to South Africa’s energy and regulatory environment.