Rhodes University aims to improve energy efficiency. Sunny South Africa, and its windy coastal regions, is the perfect place for renewable energy and energy efficiency. There are many sustainable energy options - though of course, some may be more sustainable than others. While initial capital costs tend to be higher, in the long run, it's worth it. There can be nothing more satisfying than enjoying home comforts such as cooked food and hot showers without having to pay the costs associated with dirty coal-fired power.
Sustainable or 'renewable energy' helps improve energy efficiency. Some technologies tend to cost more, initially, but it quickly pays for itself. There are also advantages associated with reduced dependence on non-renwable energy resources such as oil and coal. And what can be more satisfying than enjoying home comforts such as cooked food and hot showers without having to pay the health and safety costs associated with dirty coal-fired power.
Rhodes University Alumnis David Lipschitz (1986) has developed an "off the grid" Power Station installation. See http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LT1AF4ycAQY
Solar power: SA supplier info: All Solar; My Power Station; Specialised Solar Systems; Telekom Techniques.
Solar water heating: SA supplier info:Solien, Tasol; Telekom Techniques.
Solar cooking: SA supplier info: Association for Renewable Energy Cooking Appliances (AFRECA).
Wind energy: Supplier info: African Wind Power; All Solar; Eveready; Kestrel; My Power Station; Solien; Telekom Techniques
This can be linked to a favourable Renewable Energy Feed-In Tariff (REFIT) by the National Energy Regulator.
Makana wind farm: Winds of Change video
Environmental Impact Assessments: Current EIA updates in Makana and region.
Last Modified: Fri, 13 Dec 2019 10:09:08 SAST