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A R10 million pilot project aimed at providing solar energy as an alternate power source to Walter Sisulu University has seen the institution install approximately 486 solar panels across the institution’s Potsdam Site.
The shocking effects of the country’s on-going energy crisis jolted the university into procuring the services of a construction company in January to install the panels in a bid to cut down on electricity costs.
“The Potsdam installation comprises 3 components of solar panel installation linked to inverters and then tied into the Low Voltage Main Point of Supply. The 3 components are ground-mounted installation, carport-mounted installation and roof-mounted installation,” said Project Manager Ncumisa Ralarala.
She said following the installation, the university would monitor the efficiency of the different types of panels in order to determine which mode functions most effectively.
The panels have been installed in various spots across the site, including 108 panels installed on lecture room blocks; 90 panels on the auditorium; 72 panels at the great hall; 54 panels at the admin block; a further 54 on the carports, and 108 at the on the ground – a total of 486 panels at an output of 250 kw.
“The solar panel installation ties into the electrical supply of the site and will reduce the monthly usage and electricity cost. WSU will not be able to export excess energy into the grid, for various technical reasons,” said Ralarala.
Upon review of the outcomes of the pilot project, Ralarala said the university could consider solar PV, where feasible, as an alternative to generator sets in order to save on diesel fuel costs.
She said although the university doesn’t have enough funds to roll out the solar PV system across the university, the pilot project itself is very important in laying the groundwork for the inevitable prospect of the installation of such a system at the university.
By Thando Cezula
