GreenSun’s third-party technology integrates with most PV inverter and battery storage products, solving inter-device communication hurdles and creating a uniform interface for smart control of stand-alone microgrids as well as embedded networks. It also enables virtual control of demand respo Contact online >>
GreenSun’s third-party technology integrates with most PV inverter and battery storage products, solving inter-device communication hurdles and creating a uniform interface for smart control of stand-alone microgrids as well as embedded networks. It also enables virtual control of demand response-enabled devices (DREDs), providing more options for ''big picture'' microgrid management.
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THE deployment of microgrids across the African continent has evolved beyond its socioeconomic goals to provide a viable answer to the energy ''trilemma'', said the vice president: Power and Grid for Middle East and Africa at Schneider Electric, Taru Madangombe.
Coined by the World Energy Council (WEC), the energy trilemma is defined as finding the right balance among affordability and access; energy security and environmental sustainability. Speaking at the panel on Development of Mini-Grid and Off-Grid Solutions, at the Africa Energy Indaba held in Cape Town, Madangombe emphasised that microgrids have become a missing part of the puzzle, meeting the WEC trilemma''s energy security challenge.
"We are no longer seeing the adoption of microgrids in rural areas alone but also in major cities where we are trying to stabilise energy security. This is particularly relevant across the African continent which has been faced with major loadshedding challenges for a number of years," he explained.
"Also, the deployment of microgrids in cities makes it more attractive for investors, particularly when aligned with respective country tariff rebates and cost incentive programmes, as well as when an off-taker has been secured.
"And this is also where technology comes into the fold, playing an important role in enhancing microgrid systems to deliver valuable insight into investment decisions through integrated planning and monitoring software tools that provide data analytics and offer visibility for the investor to be able to monitor and track their revenue generation," says Madangombe.
Looking at energy security challenges, Madangombe cites a current microgrid project at JFK International Airport as a prime example. The project entails the deployment of an 11.4 MW microgrid with rooftop solar, fuel cells and battery storage, enabling an under-construction terminal to be powered during electrical outages.
The Schneider Electric and AlphaStruxure joint venture will construct, own and operate the microgrid. It will operate as an energy-as-a-service model and include about 7.7 MW of rooftop solar, 3.7 MW of fuel cells and 2 MW/4 MWh of battery storage.
"The JFK airport microgrid will operate when there are power outages on the wider grid while also advancing the transition to cleaner power and boosting reliability. Furthermore, airport operators across the US are increasingly pursuing microgrid projects as power disruptions and extreme weather events become more common," he adds.
Looking at the deployment of microgrids in rural communities, Madangombe noted that the establishment of stable, secure energy supply gives way to further community development through productive use of energy initiatives. "One such example (amongst many) is in one of the remote villages of Limpopo where Schneider Electric was involved with the deployment of a small microgrid system to power a bakery and a community centre. Community members no longer have to drive kilometres to purchase essentials like bread and the provision of energy has led to the construction of a sports training centre for children and other projects."
THE Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Power Africa, a US Government-led initiative coordinated by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) have teamed up to launch the Microgrid Centre of Excellence (CoE) for future power systems at the CSIR to promote decentralised renewable energy solutions to address climate change and increase energy access.
The partnership is a stepping stone for the CSIR, Power Africa, and USAID to identify, develop and implement solutions that capacitate energy stakeholders with microgrid and smart grid technologies. It is intended to enable the advancement of renewable energy project development, and increased access to reliable and clean energy, in line with South Africa''s Just Energy Transition (JET) goals.
A microgrid is a self-contained grid that uses renewable energy, batteries for energy storage and generators to produce power. Microgrids can either complement the national grid or work independently from it, providing communities access to more sustainable and resilient energy supplies.
These grids rely on pragmatic, scalable, and cost-effective technology that can reduce carbon emissions and align with government priorities, including the JET. Microgrids can enhance energy security, improve the reliability of supply, and stabilise the national grid. They can be implemented for commercial, industrial, and campus customers, as well as in remote communities to support economic and enterprise development.
Speaking at the launch, CSIR chief executive officer Dr Thulani Dlamini hailed this partnership as one that will advance microgrid and smart grid technologies to build future power and enhance energy capacity.
About Cape town commercial microgrids
As the photovoltaic (PV) industry continues to evolve, advancements in Cape town commercial microgrids have become critical to optimizing the utilization of renewable energy sources. From innovative battery technologies to intelligent energy management systems, these solutions are transforming the way we store and distribute solar-generated electricity.
When you're looking for the latest and most efficient Cape town commercial microgrids for your PV project, our website offers a comprehensive selection of cutting-edge products designed to meet your specific requirements. Whether you're a renewable energy developer, utility company, or commercial enterprise looking to reduce your carbon footprint, we have the solutions to help you harness the full potential of solar energy.
By interacting with our online customer service, you'll gain a deep understanding of the various Cape town commercial microgrids featured in our extensive catalog, such as high-efficiency storage batteries and intelligent energy management systems, and how they work together to provide a stable and reliable power supply for your PV projects.
