Sapphire Technologies (Sapphire), a developer of energy recovery systems for hydrogen and natural gas industrial applications, has expanded into Nigeria through a strategic partnership with Horizon Shores Nigeria Ltd., an upstream and midstream oil and gas services company. The collaboration, which marks Sapphire’s first venture into Africa, will deploy the company’s FreeSpin In-line Turboexpander (FIT) technology, an energy recovery system designed to capture and convert otherwise wasted pressure energy into electricity.
“Our partnership with Horizon Shores is a milestone for Sapphire Technologies as we expand into one of Africa’s most dynamic energy markets,” said Freddie Sarhan, CEO of Sapphire. “By leveraging our FreeSpin In-line Turboexpander technology, Nigeria could see significant gains in energy efficiency and economic resilience, reducing dependence on traditional power sources and fostering a greener future.”
Over the next three years, Sapphire and Horizon Shores plan to deploy more than a dozen turboexpander projects, advancing Nigeria’s transition to cleaner energy, while generating local jobs and expanding access to affordable power in underserved communities.
FIT Technology
FIT extracts energy from the pressure reduction required at various stages of gas distribution and allows for the generation of electricity. FIT features surface mount permanent magnet synchronous motor technology and permanent magnet bias homopolar active magnetic bearings. The turboexpander is designed to operate at gas inlet pressures up to 1600 psig. The 300 kW FIT enables Sapphire’s customers to scale up their power generation capacity by installing multiple units in parallel with the regulating valves.
- The pre-heated high-pressure gas flows into the FreeSpin In-line Turboexpander.
- The gas then expands through the radial turbine wheel.
- The low-pressure gas exits the turboexpander and is ready for delivery to residential and commercial users.
- The energy wasted during the pressure reduction process is recovered by the FIT and converted to electrical power.
- Any excess high-pressure gas not directed through the turboexpander is expanded by the conventional pressure regulator, which is installed in parallel to the FIT.
- The produced electricity enters the power electronics unit, which can be programmed to specific power requirement.
“This partnership with Sapphire Technologies allows us to integrate state-of-the-art energy recovery systems, meeting Nigeria’s energy needs while supporting our commitment to environmental sustainability,” said Oluseun Olusola of Horizon Shores Nigeria Ltd. “With Sapphire’s FreeSpin technology, we’re opening new pathways to decarbonize our industry while achieving long-term economic benefits.”
