Aptech Africa Brings Solar Power To Rural Schools And Health Centers In Papua New Guinea

Aptech Africa has successfully designed, supplied, and installed three off-grid and three hybrid solar systems in the Vanimo and Wewak provinces of Papua New Guinea, significantly enhancing access to electricity in rural areas. This initiative aims to improve health and educational services in regions where grid-connected power is limited or non-existent.

With only 18% of Papua New Guinea’s population having access to electricity, primarily in urban centers, this project targets the 80% living in rural areas without grid access. Many sites in these provinces have relied on non-functional generators, necessitating the installation of off-grid systems. Hybrid systems were introduced in areas with functioning generators to mitigate the high fuel costs.

The solar installations comprise roof-mounted systems totaling 301.5kWp of solar panels and 853.5kWh of lithium-ion battery storage. Specific installations include:

• Nagum SDA Secondary School: 95.58kWp with 267.3kWh battery storage
• Vanimo Secondary School: 92.88kWp with 243kWh battery storage
• Don Bosco Secondary School: 58.5kWp with 180kWh battery storage
• Taul Community Health Post: 15.12kWp with 48kWh battery storage
• Dagua Community Health Post: 14.04kWp with 43.2kWh battery storage
• Ossima Health Community Center: 25kWp with 72kWh battery storage

For off-grid sites, Pylontech batteries with Deye inverters were utilized, while hybrid sites employed Alpha ESS AC Coupled integrated systems of batteries and inverters. All systems are equipped with remote monitoring capabilities via Alpha Cloud and Solar Man applications, enabling real-time monitoring of battery state of charge, PV-generated power, supplied power, and fault detection. This feature facilitates early problem-solving and prevents potential damage to the installed equipment.

The project is expected to benefit over 5,000 people, including students, teachers, and community members, by providing reliable electricity to schools and health centers. At the schools, the solar systems fully power existing loads, including computers and printers. Health centers will experience improved services, such as decreased maternity death rates, as they will have an uninterrupted power supply around the clock.

Beyond immediate benefits, these solar systems contribute to sustainable development by reducing carbon emissions that would otherwise result from diesel generators. This initiative represents a significant step toward promoting renewable energy and ensuring a greener future for Papua New Guinea.

“We are proud to support these rural communities by providing reliable and sustainable energy solutions,” said a spokesperson for Aptech Africa. “This project not only enhances educational and health services but also aligns with global goals for sustainable development and environmental preservation.”

Aptech Africa’s efforts demonstrate a commitment to addressing energy challenges in remote areas, fostering community development, and promoting environmental sustainability in Papua New Guinea.