These innovative installations are not only reducing energy costs but also contributing to a healthier planet and promoting energy independence.

By incorporating cutting-edge technology from leading brands like Victron and Fronius, these healthcare facilities have harnessed the power of the sun to meet their energy needs. The integration of lithium batteries ensures reliable and efficient storage, providing backup power during load shedding and optimizing energy usage.

Dual Systems for Dual Benefits

There are two separate solar power systems designed and installed for Garden Route Eye Clinic (GREC) and George Surgical Centre (GSC).GREC is equipped with a 3-phase, 45kVA system featuring our very own Energydock Energypod, while GSC has a larger 3-phase, 135kVA system with our very own Storagedock LV-comms stackable batteries. Both systems utilize Victron Quattro’s and Fronius Eco inverters to manage power from Jinko solar panels and store excess energy in LiFPO4 batteries for backup.

Responding to Load Shedding

When both health facilities approached Specialized Solar Systems (SSS) for an energy solution, South Africa was experiencing unprecedented load shedding. Stage 6 load shedding meant disruptions to critical medical services. For these facilities, reliable backup power is essential. Traditionally, this meant relying on diesel generators, but with skyrocketing fuel prices, this solution became increasingly expensive.

Independent Needs, Independent Systems

SSS, a solar power solution provider, commercial team conducted independent energy audits for both GREC and GSC. Each facility has separate electrical infrastructure and operates independently. This analysis determined the specific energy requirements of each location.

Designing for Resilience

Given the critical nature of medical facilities and the prevailing load shedding situation, SSS designed each system with battery storage capacity sufficient to carry the facility through a 4-hour power outage. The battery capacity for GREC is 45kVA 60kWh and for GSC it’s 135kVA 180kWh.

Adapting to Changing Energy Landscape

Since the project’s completion, South Africa’s energy environment has improved, with load shedding currently less frequent. This positive change allows for a more sophisticated approach to battery management.

Optimizing Savings Through Time-of-Use Tariffs

Both facilities operate on Time-of-Use (TOU) electricity tariffs, where the cost of electricity fluctuates based on peak and off-peak periods. SSS can now program the battery charge and discharge cycles to take advantage of these fluctuations. This “arbitrage process” further reduces energy costs and improves the financial viability of the installed solar systems.