GridX Africa Development, in association with Solar Africa, has completed a state-of-the-art solar-battery system at Singita Faru Faru Lodge, in the western corridor of the Serengeti, Tanzania. The new energy system replaces existing diesel generation, with 90% of power to the lodge now sourced from renewables. The solar-battery project is the first of its kind in Tanzania and the first Tesla battery commissioned in Tanzania. 

Solar Africa provided upfront financing and the system is being managed by GridX Africa and Solar Africa as part of a holistic operations and maintenance program. The system is entirely off-grid and provides a reliable 24/7 power solution for Faru Faru’s operations. 

The installation comprises 189 kWp of ground-mounted solar PV integrated with 174 kW / 522 kWh Tesla PowerPack. Tesla’s battery system in this project is a prime example of how battery technology can be combined with renewable power generation to provide a long-term energy security solution at an economically viable cost. 

Chalker Kansteiner, founder of GridX Africa, said: “GridX Africa is very pleased to have led the development of the Faru Faru project - providing a positive outcome for our client, the environment, and the commercial and industrial power industry in the region.” 

Faru Faru’s solar-battery system displaces over 100,000 litres of diesel each year, reducing annual diesel power generation costs through decreased fuel consumption, logistics, and generator maintenance cost savings. The completion of this system highlights the complete alignment between conservation, tourism, and renewable energy, based on all parties’ shared vision for sustainable outcomes. 

The solution provided by GridX Africa supports Singita’s commitment to sustainability and reinforces its position as a leading conservation brand.  Singita’s single-minded 100-year purpose is to protect and preserve large areas of African wilderness for future generations. 

Luke Bailes, CEO and Founder of Singita, said: “Sustainability – operating in an environmentally conscious way at every level of the business – is a key component of conservation success, alongside maintaining the integrity of our reserves and their ecosystems, and working with local communities. The health and survival of each of these is crucial to the survival of the whole.” 

GridX Africa develops, finances and operates solar projects throughout sub-Saharan Africa, with more than five additional projects expected to be completed during 2019 for clients in a range of sectors.