Pilot Project: 2010 – FECECAV Headquarters, Kpalime, Togo

System size:
Details: SunPower Afrique’s pilot project in Togo was a grid-tied solar electric system which helps to power FECECAV’s HQ. The system offsets the office’s usage and provides up to 2 days of battery backup power for computers, fans, lights, and other electrical equipment when the power grid goes down (which it does frequently!)

SunPower Afrique conducted a week-long training for 12 technicians, led by Ron Celentano and Jon Costanza highlighting everything from electricity basics to solar system sizing and Togo weather data. The system uses SolarWorld solar modules, 2 Outback inverters and charge controllers, a large battery bank (flooded batteries) and a custom designed, roof-mounted racking system made of locally grown teak.

2011 Installations – FECECAV Offices, Wome, Kpadape and Amoussokope, Togo

System size:
Details: In 2011, SunPower Afrique partnered with the French development agency, SIDI (link to Sidi’s website), to install 3 more solar electric systems for FECECAV’s rural branch offices. While 2010’s installation at FECECAV’s headquarters was tied to the electric grid, all 3 of the installations completed in 2011, in the villages of Wome, Kpadape and Amoussokope, were off-the-grid and powered entirely by battery back up.

2011’s installations were managed by Ashley Lewis, PCV & Operations Manager, designed by Ron Celentano and David Staller. David also traveled to Togo to supervise installations and continue training of SunPower Afrique technicians.

Wome
Wome

Kpadape