Off-Grid Connect, FAO Eritrea

Project description

Off-Grid Connect (OGC) is the term used for systems that can serve certain loads independently, however, these loads are grid-connected at the same time. In case of power failures, or given the grid does not work on any other reason, the Off-Grid Connect System powers up, ensuring that important electrical loads are operated without interruption. OGC is a system designed to make users step-by-step independent from the grid.
In December 2013, Phaesun has completed an Off-Grid Connect System with a 12kWp solar generator for the FAO-office in Asmara/Eritrea. This system is now supplying computers, the illumination and the safety system while the FAO office is now able to work at least partly independent from the unreliable power grid in the Eritrean capital.

Why was PV selected?

The power supply in Eritrea even in the capital Asmara is not reliable. Power cuts of some minutes up to several hours are common. A battery back-up system is a suitable solution to supply reliable power to essential loads. Irradiation in Asmara is good and therefore PV is one of the most reliable electricitysources. The PV generator supplies essential loads and supports the battery backup system in case oflonger power cuts.

Special challenges

The loads that are served by the OGC-system can run independently from other loads. When power from the grid is available they are served by the grid. When the power turns off, the loads are served without interruption by the battery power.