Covestro has developed specialized solar dryers made of polycarbonate to assist coffee farmers in Ethiopia during the harvest season. The initiative, launched in collaboration with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, aims to support disadvantaged regions globally with simple, effective technologies.
Six solar dryers have been installed in Ethiopia, with the project gaining momentum. One of the country’s largest coffee roasters has purchased four additional units for its own production.
Coffee is a key export for Ethiopia and sustains many smallholder farmers. However, rising temperatures and erratic rainfall are affecting yields and making crops more vulnerable to disease. The Covestro-GIZ project seeks to improve efficiency and resilience in coffee production.
Technology and Impact
Covestro has helped develop parabolic solar dryers, which function like greenhouses but offer greater control over temperature and humidity. The structures use lightweight, transparent polycarbonate multiwall sheets instead of glass, providing insulation and UV protection. The technology allows for faster, more hygienic coffee drying while shielding beans from rain, pests, and mold.
GIZ supports the project through the German development program develoPPP, which integrates private sector initiatives with development goals.
“The solar-powered dryers have significantly reduced drying times for both washed and natural coffee processing,” said Helene Widmer, project manager at GIZ. “This enables farmers to bring coffee to market faster while protecting beans from contamination, improving quality, and reducing waste. Local cooperatives see the technology as a valuable addition to their operations.”
Pejman Norastehfar, head of inclusive business EMEA at Covestro, said the project highlights how innovation can address climate challenges. “The success of these solar dryers shows the positive impact of sustainable technologies in the coffee sector. We are proud to work with GIZ and local cooperatives to enhance efficiency, quality, and shelf life.”
