Local alternative energy company SolarCon has supplied IBC photovoltaic (PV) solar panels to the Equinox Mall in Jeffrey's Bay on the Eastern Cape coastline. The eight 260 W panels will provide 40% of the total alternative energy requirement daily at the mall, with the balance of what is a 3kW wind turbine providing the other 60% of renewable-energy.

Overall, renewable energy sources will provide all the energy requirements for the walkways and the utility rooms.

German-based IBC PV solar technology was chosen for the project as the technology boasts the highest output for its size making it the most cost- and energy efficient.

IBC's PV generates more energy than it consumes and the energy used during the production of the panels is recouped between two to seven years, depending on the location and system type. In addition, the cells, glass and aluminium frames can either be reused or recycled at the end of their lives.

"PV technology is mature, robust and reliable as it has no moving parts and requires minimum maintenance. The components used in PV systems have proven their durability over the years as they are water and ultraviolet-resistant, and can withstand extreme temperatures," says SolarCon MD Dieter Dilchert.

The Equinox mall project took four weeks to complete.

SolarCon recently also installed an alternative energy supply system worth R100 000 at the Lapp Cable head office building in Edenvale, Gauteng.

Lapp Cable is using its alternative energy source as a ‘greener' backup alternative during periods of interrupted power supply as well as a way of reducing its carbon footprint. The alternative energy system the company has installed at the Lapp Cable head office will save it 1,32 kW/h.

Dilchert recently told Engineering News that the solar and alternative energy industry needs more support from government.

"There is an increased demand for alternative energy in South Africa in light of the power shortage issues the country is currently facing; however, we are not getting support from government to further promote the use of alternative energy," he said.

He explained that the company had approached government a number of times but was not receiving any response.

"Solar energy can solve the energy crisis. If all warehouses are fitted with solar panels, then it can supply a great deal of power to the industry. Not only does this help with energy supply, but it can produce 25 years worth of energy without the pollution," he noted.

The company is currently working on a project at a game reserve in Botswana.