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.
Expanding Rural Electricity Access in Papua New Guinea
With only 18% of Papua New Guinea’s population having access to electricity, mainly in urban areas, this project focuses on the 80% living in rural regions without grid access. Many locations in these provinces have depended on non-functional generators, requiring the installation of off-grid systems. In areas with operational generators, hybrid systems were implemented to reduce high fuel costs.
This project significantly enhances access to electricity in rural areas, aiming to improve health and educational services in regions where grid-connected power is limited or non-existent.
Overview of Solar Installations and Battery Storage
Image: Collected
The solar installations consist of roof-mounted systems totalling 301.5kWp of solar panels and 853.5kWh of lithium-ion battery storage. Specific installations include Nagum SDA Secondary School with 95.58kWp and 267.3kWh battery storage, Vanimo Secondary School with 92.88kWp and 243kWh battery storage, Don Bosco Secondary School with 58.5kWp and 180kWh battery storage, Taul Community Health Post with 15.12kWp and 48kWh battery storage, Dagua Community Health Post with 14.04kWp and 43.2kWh battery storage, and Ossima Health Community Center with 25kWp and 72kWh battery storage.
Enhanced Monitoring in the Solar Projects
For off-grid locations, Pylontech batteries paired with Deye inverters were used, while hybrid sites utilized Alpha ESS AC Coupled integrated systems combining batteries and inverters. All systems feature remote monitoring via Alpha Cloud and Solar Man applications, enabling real-time tracking of battery charge status, solar power generation, electricity supply, and fault detection. This capability allows for proactive troubleshooting and helps prevent equipment damage.
Over 5,000 Individuals to Benefit from the Project
The project aims to benefit more than 5,000 individuals, including students, teachers, and community members, by delivering reliable electricity to schools and health centres. At schools, solar systems fully support current electricity needs, including computers and printers. Health centres will see enhanced services, such as reduced maternity mortality rates, with uninterrupted power supply throughout the day and night.
Promoting Renewable Energy and Sustainability
Beyond the immediate benefits, these solar systems support sustainable development by reducing carbon emissions that would otherwise come from diesel generators. This initiative marks 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 delivering reliable and sustainable energy solutions. This project not only improves educational and health services but also aligns with global objectives for sustainable development and environmental preservation." said a spokesperson for Aptech Africa.
Aptech Africa’s initiatives showcase a dedication to overcoming energy challenges in remote areas, advancing community development, and promoting environmental sustainability in Papua New Guinea.