Solar-charging Environmental Superstars
The Infratec team have been helping to shape the next generation of Environmental Superstars in Palau!
Together with our JV project partner, Clay Energy, we’ve recently completed a project to install a solar PV and battery storage system on Kayangel Atoll, in the northern-most state of Palau (population: 32).
Children on the remote atoll had never seen a solar power plant before, so we took the opportunity to visit the school (all eight children and six teachers!) to talk with them about the project and about how energy works, how solar plants convert energy from the sun, and how we can all do our bit to save energy and to look after the planet.
We also helped them to build a garden at the school, and provided seeds and gardening equipment, so the children can now grow their own fruit and vegetables and prepare healthy lunches every day.
And recently, during the final testing and commissioning phase, we hosted the children and teachers at the plant so they could see how it all works, what the solar panels look like, and how the batteries are charged — topping off the day by presenting the children with certificates of appreciation for being the Environmental Superstars that they are.
Infratec’s site manager Corrie Scheepers said the children enjoyed the experience — and so did the Infratec team.
“I loved it — that’s my passion in life to make the world a better place, and kids especially are my soft spot.”
Infratec is committed to working with the communities where we are developing renewable energy projects, to ensure we leave every community better off for the long-term.
The MFAT funded Kayangel Atoll project of 65kWp solar PV and 165kWh battery storage, reduces the atoll’s reliance on diesel generators, with daily savings of about 140 litres of diesel saving the community about $30,000 a year, or approximately $1000 per person.
It is also the first battery-solar site in Palau and a great showcase of the impact these projects can bring to remote Pacific communities.
