The International University of East Africa (IUEA) Petroleum Engineering made a bold statement at the SPE Annual Students Technical Conference and Exhibition (SASTCE) 2025—Uganda’s premier event for petroleum engineering students. Hosted at Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Kihumuro, the event gathered the brightest young minds in the field. However, it was IUEA’s innovative Solar-Powered Carbon Trapper and Recycler Project that truly stole the show. This groundbreaking solution aligns perfectly with the SASTCE 2025 theme: Innovative Pathways for Integrating Fossil Fuels and Renewables: A Sustainable Energy Transition.
This remarkable achievement not only highlights IUEA’s commitment to cutting-edge engineering but also signals a new direction for the petroleum industry. Let’s explore how this student-led project is helping bridge the gap between fossil fuels and renewable energy.
Why the World Needs Sustainable Energy Solutions
The transition to sustainable energy is not just a goal—it’s a necessity. Fossil fuels power over 80% of the world’s energy needs, but their environmental impact is undeniable. Greenhouse gas emissions contribute to global warming, affecting everything from weather patterns to food security. Yet, the shift to renewable energy isn’t as simple as flipping a switch. Several challenges slow down this transition, including:
- Economic dependence on fossil fuels – Many global economies are built around oil and gas, making abrupt changes risky.
- Energy security concerns – Renewable energy sources need to be more efficient and scalable to fully replace fossil fuels.
- Technological gaps – Advanced energy solutions require significant research and development.
- Social and political resistance – Despite the clear evidence of climate change, policy changes remain slow.
With these challenges in mind, the petroleum industry is searching for practical, cost-effective solutions that help reduce carbon footprints without disrupting the energy supply. That’s where IUEA’s latest innovation comes in.
Introducing the Solar-Powered Carbon Trapper and Recycler Project
A revolutionary step in Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR), this project tackles one of the biggest sustainability challenges in oil extraction. Traditionally, EOR requires the injection of carbon dioxide (CO₂) into reservoirs to reduce oil viscosity and improve flow. However, this process is typically powered by fossil fuels, increasing energy costs and carbon emissions—ironically worsening the problem it seeks to solve.
IUEA’s innovative approach harnesses solar energy to power CO₂ compression and injection. This not only reduces environmental impact but also lowers operational costs, making the oil recovery process significantly more sustainable and energy-efficient.
Behind this game-changing project are four brilliant engineering students:
- Tumuhimbise Patience
- Nasali Fatuma
- Olema Bank Simon
- Onyango Emmanuel
Despite being only second-year students, their work is already sparking conversations about the future of sustainable oil recovery.
A Legacy of Innovation: Emmanuel Onyango
While the Solar-Powered Carbon Trapper and Recycler Project is a remarkable achievement, it is not the first groundbreaking innovation from Emmanuel Onyango. Since joining IUEA, he has consistently developed cutting-edge solutions focused on recycling and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, proving that sustainability is more than just a project—it’s his passion. His dedication and ingenuity even earned him the prestigious Galactic Problem Solver Award by NASA, a testament to his ability to tackle global challenges with innovative thinking.
Expert Opinions and Industry Impact
At SASTCE 2025, the project was showcased to industry leaders, researchers, and fellow students, receiving praise for its practicality and potential impact. Experts commended the innovation for providing a real-world solution to a major sustainability challenge. However, discussions also highlighted key areas for improvement:
Scalability – How can the technology be adapted for larger-scale industrial use?
Environmental adaptability – How will it perform under different climate conditions?
Hybrid power solutions – Could a mix of solar and energy storage options enhance effectiveness?
The feedback received at the conference will help refine and advance the project, bringing it one step closer to real-world implementation.
Join the Future of Petroleum Engineering at IUEA
The Solar-Powered Carbon Trapper and Recycler Project is a clear example of what passionate, forward-thinking students can achieve with the right education and guidance. Every step toward sustainability counts, and at IUEA, we believe in equipping students with the skills and mindset to create real impact.
If you’re ready to be part of a university that values innovation, problem-solving, and sustainability, then IUEA is the place for you.
