Roadmap
From the laboratory to the planet
HeliosReflect does not promise immediate results. It proposes a rigorous path of progressive validation: mathematics, simulation, prototype, experimentation, pilot plant and industrialisation.
All the hypotheses of the project must be verified experimentally before being considered demonstrated.
Phases
A path of progressive validation
Each phase states its objectives, status, risks, next steps and collaboration needs.
Mathematical validation
Objectives
- Prove or disprove the central HR-DOC hypothesis with mathematical rigour.
- Complete the symbolic verification with exact computation.
- Document theorems and proofs in a technical volume.
Risks
- Independent peer review still pending.
Next steps
- External academic review of the proofs.
Needs
- Universities and independent evaluators.
Optical simulation
Objectives
- Independent Monte Carlo simulation with millions of rays.
- Parametric studies of manufacturing tolerances.
- Validate capture, collimation and étendue against the model.
Risks
- Independent simulations may refute the model.
Next steps
- Publish the simulation results.
Needs
- Computing centres and simulation reviewers.
First prototype (Ø 1 m)
Objectives
- Build a one-metre-diameter prototype.
- Characterise the beam: irradiance, power, diameter and divergence.
- Systematically compare model, simulation and experiment.
Risks
- Manufacturing tolerances and secondary alignment.
- Cost of materials and measurement instrumentation.
Next steps
- Parametric CAD design.
Needs
- Prototype funding, laboratories and engineering.
Energy integration
Objectives
- Integrate the Stirling receiver and generator.
- Validate light transport through optical fibres.
- Measure the efficiency of the whole system outdoors.
Risks
- Integration may reveal coupling limitations.
Next steps
- Subsystem assembly and field trials.
Needs
- Industrial partners for Stirling and optical fibre.
Photochemical reactors
Objectives
- Feed existing photochemical reactors with concentrated light.
- Evaluate hydrogen production and CO₂ reduction.
- Publish results with open data.
Risks
- Real efficiencies below theoretical values.
Next steps
- Agreements with photochemistry centres.
Needs
- Photochemistry and catalysis research centres.
Pilot plant (10 modules)
Objectives
- Operate a pilot plant of ten interconnected modules.
- Demonstrate the simultaneous operation of several transformations.
- Characterise behaviour under real radiation conditions.
Risks
- Scalability, operating costs and real energy metrics.
Next steps
- Site selection and permits.
Needs
- Pilot plant funding and energy partners.
Industrialisation
Objectives
- Scale beyond a hundred modules and validate the business model.
- Develop the manufacturing and supply chain.
- Extend the model to other regions and climates.
Risks
- Economic viability against established solar alternatives.
Next steps
- Industrial and long-term financing model.
Needs
- Growth investors, industry and utilities.
Funding model
Phase-based funding, adapted to uncertainty
A project of this scale requires a phased funding strategy, adjusted to the maturity level of each stage.
2026-2027
Research
Research grants, university collaboration and public R&D programmes.
2027-2029
Prototypes and demos
Seed and Series A rounds with deep-tech investors and climate impact funds.
2030+
Industrialisation
Growth venture capital, project finance and strategic agreements with industry.
A path of progressive validation
All the hypotheses of the project must be verified experimentally before being considered demonstrated.