NWU IS SOLAR FRIENDLY!

Amari Maré

@amari.mare

The sun is a heat source but also a power source, and the North-West University (NWU) took notice of that and used it in their favor. 

Solar energy system panels are being installed on the rooftops and parking areas of the NWU Mahikeng campus. The NWU Vanderbijlpark Campus recently unveiled a new solar carport plant. The system will enhance energy independence, because the solar system directly supports the campus’s energy needs without relying on the national grid. This assists the university’s resilience during load- shedding or power interruptions. 

There are of course challenges present in this project such as  working  around students’ academic schedules. There are also limitations to infrastructure such as the availability of roof space and electrical access points. The benefits of the solar panels are the reduced  costs of diesel for generators which ultimately reduces carbon emissions. Finally, easing the burden of the  cost of grid electricity.

The solar energy project is part of a bigger plan to shift towards energy independence and how electricity is sourced, used and sustained by incorporating future construction and renovations.

Solar panels being installed on parking lots on Mahikeng Campus (Source: NWU@News)

Edited by Mignon Walters