Hybrid Solar Energy Solution – Boutique Farm, Mossel Bay

• Location: Mossel Bay, South Africa
• Project Type: Hybrid Solar PV with BESS
• Capacity/Size: 160 kWp Solar PV with 400kWh LiFePO4 battery storage
• Client/Partner: Boutique Farming Operation
• Expected Completion: Pending financial feasibility assessment and funding decision

Key Features & Benefits

• Energy Challenges Addressed:
  • The farm currently has a 50kVA utility connection, which is insufficient for their total energy demand, causing overload trips.
  • Load shedding impacts continuity of operations.

• Proposed Hybrid Solution:
  • Solar PV System: Generates power for daytime loads.
  • LiFePO4 Battery Storage: Stores excess solar energy for nighttime consumption.
  • Grid Supply as Primary Backup: Charges batteries when solar production is insufficient.
  • Diesel Generator Integration: Provides an additional layer of backup during grid outages.

• Operational Impact:
  • Ensures uninterrupted power for the restaurant, wedding venue, deli, gin distillery, and irrigation water pumps supporting stud cattle farming.
  • Reduces dependence on diesel generators, lowering fuel costs and carbon emissions.

Next Steps & Future Expansion

• The client is evaluating the financial feasibility of the project.
• Potential for expansion based on performance and long-term energy security benefits.

Investment & Collaboration Opportunities

• Local Subcontractor Partnerships: Opportunities for installation support.
• Investment Opportunities: The client is exploring funding solutions. This presents an opportunity for impact investors or alternative financing models to support a high-demand hybrid renewable energy project in the agricultural sector.