The light emitted from the sun has a lot of energy that is converted by the solar panels into electricity. Solar energy is free and abundant everywhere in Zimbabwe. It is renewable as long as the sun exists.
Solar Applications
For individual and business solar installations, customers are advised to approach REF offices for installations and consultancy. REF installs solar systems suitable for various uses required by the beneficiary.
Uses of Solar energy
At household level solar power can be used for lighting, powering television and radios, refrigeration, solar water pumping, telecommunications and traffic signals among others
Lighting , TV and Radio
Refrigeration
Solar Water Pumping
Solar Water Pumping
Traffic Signals
Mini Grid Solar System
Institutions which are far away from the existing grid network which are unlikely to benefit from the conventional grid electricity in the foreseeable future benefit from the mini grid solar system.
The mini grid solar systems are restricted to public institutions such as schools and clinics. At a school, the mini grid solar system provides energy to teachers’ houses and classroom blocks while at a clinic, the mini grid solar system powers nurses’ houses, the clinic and the refrigerator for medicines. Installations are 100 percent funded by REA. Beneficiary schools and clinics are required to conduct simple maintenance of the solar systems and only approach REF in the event of major breakdowns.
Advantages Of Solar Technology
Installation costs of solar systems is highly affordable and operation costs are low. Once installed, a solar system has a minimum operation and maintenance costs, if properly operated. A solar system does not require a regular supply of fuel as diesel engines and generators. Solar technology is thus cost effective and suitable for remote and inaccessible areas which are far away from the existing electricity grid network.
Solar energy is an environmentally friendly, clean energy which does not pollute the environment like fossil energy. It does not produce smoke and other dangerous gases.
If properly designed and installed, solar systems are very reliable and durable. They need minimum maintenance and can to operate for more than 20 years without any need to replace the major components such as solar panels.
