The University of Westfield in South Africa has successfully implemented the largest solar hybrid co-generation district heating system in the country. This innovative project, funded by Austria, combines co-generation, solar panels, and district heating to provide hot water to 1,260 students around the clock.

The system utilizes waste heat from a gas generator and solar panels to ensure a sustainable and continuous supply of hot water. With its success in reducing utility bills and promoting sustainable energy solutions, this project serves as a significant milestone in the advancement of solar thermal technology in South Africa.

What is it?

The largest solar hybrid co-generation district heating system in South Africa, designed by Black Eyed Energy, combines co-generation, solar panels, and district heating to demonstrate the capacity of solar thermal as a sustainable energy solution.

This innovative system offers several advantages, including reduced utility bills for the University of Westfield and a long-term platform for sustainable energy solutions.

The system utilizes a 50 kW gas generator as the base technology, with the internal combustion motor generating both electricity and waste heat. The waste heat is then recovered and stored in 60,000-liter tanks for domestic hot water.

Additionally, 600 square meters of solar panels provide additional sustainable energy, while a backup gas burner ensures a continuous hot water supply.

This system has various applications, such as supplying hot water to 1,260 students 24 hours a day and meeting the energy needs of the university.

Technology and Design

Designed by Black Eyed Energy, the technology solution combines co-generation, solar panels, and district heating to create a large-scale energy platform.

The system utilizes a 50 kW gas generator as the base technology, where an internal combustion motor generates electricity and waste heat. The waste heat is then recovered and stored in 60,000-liter tanks for domestic hot water.

Additionally, 600 square meters of solar panels are integrated into the system to provide additional sustainable energy. This combination of co-generation and solar panels ensures high solar panel efficiency and maximizes the utilization of waste heat.

By incorporating waste heat recovery, the system improves overall energy efficiency and reduces reliance on traditional energy sources.

This innovative design showcases the potential of solar thermal technology in meeting the energy needs of large-scale applications while promoting sustainability.

Launch and Impact

The launch and impact of the project showcased the potential of solar thermal technology in addressing the energy needs of large-scale applications and promoting sustainability in the region.

The successful implementation of the largest solar hybrid co-generation district heating system in South Africa has had significant implications for the University of Westfield and the country as a whole.

The project has not only demonstrated the viability and sustainability of solar thermal solutions but has also resulted in substantial net savings for the university, with over a million rounds saved.

The success of the project has prompted the University of Westfield to plan for replication on a larger scale, indicating the potential for future projects in the industrial sector.

The launch of the solar thermal installations at Witch Junction marks a new era of solar thermal solutions in South Africa and sets an example for the higher education sector and the country as they strive towards achieving their renewable energy goals.

Commercial Viability

The project’s strong business case and recognition as one of the leading countries in large-scale systems open opportunities for future projects in various sectors, including the industrial sector.

The commercial viability of South Africa’s largest district heating system brings with it economic benefits and a promising renewable energy potential. By combining co-generation, solar panels, and district heating, the system not only reduces utility bills for the University of Westfield but also provides a long-term platform for sustainable energy solutions.

With over 8 million euros invested in the SolTrain program and the success of the project in achieving net savings for the University of Westfield, it sets an example for the higher education sector and the country as a whole.

The commitment shown by all partners involved drives forward the renewable energy agenda, paving the way for even bigger systems in the industrial sector.

Acknowledgments

Acknowledgments for the successful implementation of the project go to all the partners involved in the SoulTrain project, highlighting their efforts and cooperation in achieving the renewable energy goals in the country.

The project’s accomplishments would not have been possible without the strong partnerships between Black Eyed Energy, the SolTrain program, Black Dot Energy and Homes and Friends, as well as international partnerships with panel producers and controllers.

The support and funding from the Austrian government and other institutions have played a vital role in driving forward the renewable energy agenda in South Africa.

The commitment and passion demonstrated by all partners have been instrumental in creating a greener future for the country and its children.

Their collective efforts have set an example for large-scale rollout of sustainable solar solutions, paving the way for future projects in the industrial sector.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the solar hybrid co-generation district heating system work?

The solar hybrid co-generation district heating system combines a 50 kW gas generator with 600 square meters of solar panels to generate electricity and waste heat. The waste heat is recovered and stored for domestic hot water, ensuring constant supply and increasing efficiency.

What is the significance of the two-kilometer district heating ring main?

The two-kilometer district heating ring main is significant because it connects 14 buildings and supplies hot water to 1,260 students 24/7. It ensures service delivery, reduces utility bills, and provides a long-term platform for sustainable energy solutions. Additionally, it opens opportunities for potential future projects in South Africa’s industrial sector using solar thermal technology.

How many students does the district heating system supply hot water to?

The district heating system supplies hot water to 1,260 students 24 hours a day. This system demonstrates cost efficiency and reduces the environmental impact by utilizing solar thermal energy and waste heat recovery.

How much money has been invested in the SolTrain program?

Over 8 million euros have been invested in the SolTrain program, which is funded by Austria. This program aims to promote solar thermal energy in Southern Africa and has conducted 110 training courses, training almost 3,000 participants in solar thermal technology.

What are the potential future projects for the solar thermal technology in South Africa’s industrial sector?

The potential future projects for solar thermal technology in South Africa’s industrial sector include larger systems and increased integration of renewable energy. These projects aim to further advance the country’s renewable energy goals and create a greener future.