ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SOURCES – THE CASE OF SOLAR ENERGY
THREE weeks ago we shared with the readers the benefits of having alternative energy sources – in particular, solar energy. This week as we continue with the article, we will focus on different equipment which is powered by solar energy.
These include the following: • Telecommunications
Systems
It has been observed that most telecommunications infrastructure is often installed in isolated places with no access to power and service providers often use stand-alone photovoltaic systems to power radios, remote repeaters and weather monitoring equipment.
• Water Pumps
Solar powered electric pumps are used to pump water from wells or boreholes which is then used for irrigation, drinking, washing and for other household requirements.
Further, before a potential consumer purchases and installs any solar energy system, the following guidelines have to be applied:
a) Estimate the cost and energy efficiency of a solar energy system to be procured;
b) Evaluate your site's solar resource;
c) Determine the correct system size and the proposed load; and • relatively high. Therefore, the decision to install solar power system in a new building or integrated in an existing structure should be considered. For example, a solar lighting system is more economical over its lifetime than using candles, kerosene or generators for lighting.
Solar power systems require batteries for energy storage for use at night or during winter months when few sunshine hours are experienced. The batteries must be sized according to the electricity load which is then stored and maintained according to specifications. As batteries can be expensive, ensure that you buy from a licensed dealer to get value for money.
Where a consumer is not satisfied with the quality of the product purchased from a licensed service provider, they can lodge a complaint with the ERB to investigate the matter for possible redress.
The author is Community Liaison Officer at ERB. For more information email erb@erb.org.zm or call the ERB Toll Free Line 8484 or visit the ERB website www. erb.org.zm