The Genius Tracker from solar energy equipment supplier GameChange Solar can increase a solar photovoltaic (PV) installation’s harnessing efficacy by up to 25% as opposed to a static tracking system. The single axis tracker can be installed on slopes of about 7%, “but it could be designed to accommodate a slope of up to 15% if requested to do so by the client”, adds GameChange Solar Southern Africa regional director Russ Bowden.
Industrial boiler manufacturer Steam Generation has successfully completed two projects in Africa that highlight its ability to improve energy efficiency and management for clients. “We commissioned a steam generation plant for a notable brewery in Accra, Ghana, in January, which entailed industrial equipment supplier CERTUSS steam generators that enable the brewery to manage demand fluctuations during its brewing process without interruption,” Steam Generation commercial director Nathi Hlophe tells Engineering News.
Renewable-energy turnkey provider African Clean Energy Solutions (ACES) Renewables is installing two 540 kWh hybrid lithium-ion batteries at a business park near the Eastgate shopping centre, in Gauteng, to ensure energy efficiency amid load-shedding disruptions. The project, which includes the supply and installation of the two batteries, is a knock-on to an initial project for the client in 2021, which entailed the installation of a 200 kWp photovoltaic (PV) solar plant with all ancillaries and connections.
The South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa) has, with the approval of Cabinet, started the process that should result in it acquiring a new nuclear research reactor, to replace its current Safari-1 research reactor. The new reactor, dubbed the multipurpose reactor (MPR), would, like Safari-1, be located at Necsa’s complex at Pelindaba, west of Pretoria. “The socioeconomic needs of South Africa require a new multipurpose research reactor,” affirms Necsa Group CEO Loyiso Tyabashe. “It will strengthen scientific research in the country and increase scientific knowledge. Also, it will allow us to not only maintain, but to increase, our production of radioisotopes, especially for medicine. Consequently, it will ensure that South Africa keeps its position as one of the world’s top four medical radioisotope producers. It will maintain high-skill jobs and high-technology expertise in the country.”