Grootbos Foundation, a non-profit organisation in the Western Cape was the lucky recipient of a solar electricity system to the value of R120 000.
Solar PV manufacturer SolarWorld, by way of its distribution partner and project implementer Solek, supplied the system to the Grootbos Foundation. The project forms part of their aim to reduce their carbon footprint and costs, as well as to conserve the environment. Solek provided a free of charge installation and engineering expertise. “This donation assists the Grootbos Foundation in its continued work towards our vision and brings us closer to living our commitment to sustainability and conservation”, says Julie Cheetham, Grootbos Foundation Managing Director.
The 5.2 kWp system consists of 20 solar PV panels, which will generate sufficient energy ensuring the NPO has a fixed monthly electricity cost. The system is expected to generate 9620 kWh of electricity per annum. Gregor Kuepper, Managing Director of SolarWorld Africa told 110% Green that the system will provide for more than 50% of the NPO's daily electricity needs, and even as much as 100% during the sunny hours of the day.
"Grootbos Foundation will now save an estimated R20 000 on electricity per year. As electricity tariffs rise steeply over the years to come, savings can amount to as much as R2 000 000 over the 25-year lifetime of the plant," says Kuepper. Apart from assisting the Grootbos Foundation in saving on their electricity bill, the project contributes to conserving the environment, which forms part of the Solar PV manufacturer's vision.
The Grootbos Foundation solar system is operative and will generate clean renewable energy for the training centre for 25 years and more. “We are extremely proud of our new environmentally friendly, energy efficient office and training facility which is complete with a brand new solar system and we are extremely grateful to SolarWorld and Solek”, concludes Cheetham.
Information provided by SolarWorld and Grootbos Foundation
Image provided by Grootbos Foundation