WITH a looming energy crisis in the country, Aldan Cloete, owner of Dolphin Supermarket at Rehoboth, took the decision to install a 50kW grid-tied solar system on his premises.
The installation was carried out by Light Systems Namibia, a renewable energy solutions company.
The installation was carried out in phases, and in phase one, 164 X 260W solar panels and 2 X 25kW SMA Tripower 25000TL inverters were installed.
With this system, managing director of Light Systems Namibia Paulus Mulunga said Cloete will be able to save between 40% and 55% on his normal electricity bill as 75% to 80% of the power that he uses during the day will be supplied by the solar system.
“He is thus able to control his operational expenses, meaning his business will remain competitive because he will not be forced to increase the prices of his goods and services as a result of ever increasing electricity tariffs,” Mulunga explained.
He added that the system’s payback period is estimated to be around five years, and thereafter Cloete will receive “free electricity”, apart from the costs of maintaining the system to ensure it performs optimally.
The system has also been fitted with devices which will enable Cloete to monitor how much energy is produced by the system at any given time.
The installation of the system was done in close collaboration with the Rehoboth Town Council.
“This was an interesting project to work on. We worked under pressure as the supermarket operated while we were busy with the installation. We are happy to have successfully installed the system, and have our client enjoy the benefits of free electricity,” Mulunga noted.
On his part, Cloete said having a solar system at his business premises is one of the best decisions he has ever made as it allows him to save on his electricity bill, which he said has been very high.
“I plan to expand my business venture with the savings that I expect to make from this installation. I am glad to be making use of the free and abundant Rehoboth sun,” he beamed.
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