Ethiopia’s renewable energy sector hit by range of issues
Poor planning, overambitious projects and “weak” human and institutional expertise are just some problems plaguing the Ethiopian government’s best efforts to procure renewable energy projects, according to a new study.
Kenyan startup offers PV-powered water filter
Inno Neat has developed a solar-powered water filter that removes contaminants such as bacteria, viruses and heavy metals for rural communities.
Developers seizing Mozambique solar opportunities despite instability
Mozambique government troops have grappled with an insurgency since 2017. Although this national security matter could deter foreign development and investment, the presence of independent power producers currently working in the region prove some companies do not deem it a risk, according to the head of the Africa Solar Industry Association (AFSIA).
South Africa’s largest battery storage project goes online
South Africa’s public utility, Eskom, has switched on a 20 MW/100 MWh Hex battery energy storage system (BESS) in Worcester, Western Cape province, to mitigate the challenge of load shedding.
Weekend Read: Consolidating growth in Africa
Across Africa, rooftop solar is stepping in to fill the void as fears of non-payment and inflation-reduced donor funding dampen enthusiasm for big solar. Commercial and industrial (C&I) arrays are leading the charge, driving consolidation in markets overstocked with startup and mid-size installers.
Weekend Read: Install grid-connected solar, rinse, repeat
Will a redeployable solar and energy storage solution be the answer to unreliable grid electricity across much of Africa, as its developer proposes? Or will it merely be a temporary solution that will see cash-strapped utilities kick the can of universal energy access further down the road?
German startup deploys mobile dual-axis solar tracker in South Africa
SunOyster Energy has installed its PVmover system to supply power for a lodge in South Africa’s Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. It includes nine PV modules with a combined capacity of 3.8 kW.
South Africa conducts tender to reshape renewables tender program
Consultants have until this evening to submit their proposals on reviewing and replacing South Africa’s Renewable Energy IPP Procurement (REIPPPP) scheme. In its current form, the REIPPP mechanism has been described as “expensive” to applicants and placing a “financial burden” on the evaluation office.
Mozambique switches on 19 MW/7 MWh solar-plus-storage plant
Globeleq says that commercial operations have started for what is said to be Mozambique’s first combined utility-scale solar and energy storage plant, in the district of Cuamba.
The Hydrogen Stream: Netherlands starts building hydrogen network
The Dutch authorities have started building a national hydrogen network, while Fortescue has acquired a 12.5% stake in Norwegian Hydrogen.
