Ghana Project 50kWp off-grid

Project Goals:

The primary objective of the project was to install a 50kWp off-grid solar PV system that would provide reliable, sustainable electricity to a community in Ghana. The system would support local businesses, schools, and health centers by reducing their dependence on costly and polluting diesel generators.

The project aimed to:

- Alleviate energy poverty by providing a clean, sustainable power source.
- Reduce carbon emissions and promote renewable energy solutions.
- Empower local communities with the benefits of renewable energy.

Key Partnerships and Equipment Sourcing:

Potentia mobilized a network of trusted partners from across the renewable energy industry to support the project. These partners provided equipment, logistical support, and additional funding. The key partners included:

- Solis Inverters: Donated high-quality inverters, crucial for converting the solar-generated DC power to usable AC power.
- Puredrive Energy: Provided the battery storage systems, ensuring that excess solar energy could be stored and used when sunlight is not available.- Dainton Self-storage: Assisted with storage solutions for equipment prior to shipment.
- Edmundsons Electrical: Supplied essential electrical components and wiring.
- Industar: Supported with specialized installation equipment.
- Nanosun: Helped with project coordination and additional solar-related technical support.

The equipment, which included 100 solar panels, batteries, and inverters, was sourced and shipped entirely from the UK. The collaborative effort ensured that the community received the best possible technology for their needs.

Funding and Financial Contributions:

To facilitate the project, Potentia raised funds through their community of partners and donors. However, despite the generosity of the partners, the overall cost of transporting and installing the equipment was significant. Potentia themselves contributed over £30,000, covering the costs associated with the installation and donating their services free of charge.

To further reduce the financial burden, Potentia reached out to the Ministry of Finance in Ghana to lobby for import tax exemptions for the charity. Their efforts paid off, resulting in a £4,000 tax exemption on the imported equipment, allowing the project to stretch its resources even further and reducing costs for the community.

Community Impact and Additional Projects:

During their time in Ghana, Potentia's team not only focused on the solar installation but also took the opportunity to contribute to another meaningful cause. A local orphanage had recently experienced a severe storm that had devastated its roof, leaving the children without a safe place to learn and play. Collaborating with **Gandy's International**, a charitable organization known for its humanitarian work, Potentia helped repair the damaged roof, restoring a secure environment for the children.

This unplanned contribution showcased Potentia’s broader commitment to community welfare, as they quickly pivoted to provide much-needed relief in the aftermath of the storm. By restoring the orphanage, the team gave the children a safe space to return to, significantly improving their living and learning conditions.

Challenges and Solutions:

The project was not without its challenges. The remote location posed logistical hurdles, and the team had to coordinate the timely shipment of equipment from the UK while navigating complex customs procedures in Ghana. Potentia's collaboration with the Ministry of Finance for tax exemption was crucial in overcoming the financial strain that might have otherwise limited the project’s scope.

The extreme weather conditions in Ghana also necessitated careful planning for the installation, ensuring that the PV system would withstand the tropical climate and operate efficiently over the long term.

Conclusion:

Potentia’s 50kWp off-grid PV system project in Ghana is a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration, innovation, and determination. By engaging a diverse network of partners, Potentia successfully delivered a renewable energy solution that will have a lasting positive impact on the local community. In addition to the solar installation, the organization’s spontaneous effort to repair the orphanage roof highlights their holistic approach to making a difference.

The success of this project not only supports sustainable development in Ghana but also serves as a model for future community-led renewable energy initiatives. Potentia’s commitment to overcoming financial, logistical, and environmental challenges underscores the potential for renewable energy to drive social change in underserved communities.