Solar systems are an invaluable source of energy, but without adequate protection, they become easy targets for invisible threats. Take the example of the DRC, which has exceptional solar potential. Unfortunately, this treasure is constantly threatened by lightning, one of the most insidious dangers to electrical and solar infrastructure. Every year, considerable outages and material losses occur, leading to interruptions in essential services such as access to water, medical care, and industrial or mining activities.
What a paradox?
It is essential to incorporate lightning protection from the earliest stages of project design, rather than considering it as a corrective solution after the fact.
Field experiences in areas particularly exposed to lightning illustrate this necessity:
At Mweso General Hospital,
high vulnerability to lightning strikes led to the installation of surge arresters on the low-voltage switchboard, along with PDA INDELEC lightning rods. This initiative aims to protect solar equipment and ensure the continuity of essential hospital services, demonstrating the importance of a proactive approach,
Similarly, in Salambila,
in the province of Maniema, the installation of two lightning rods, a Prevectron S40 and a Prevectron S60, at the General Hospital has been instrumental in enhancing the safety and reliability of electrical and solar installations. This not only provides peace of mind, but also ensures the sustainability of healthcare services in the face of lightning-related threats,
At the Durba site,
the integration of two Prevectron S60 lightning rods was essential to protect the installed equipment, thereby reducing collateral damage in this high-risk area. It is imperative to take these measures to ensure the safety and efficiency of health services in vulnerable environments,
This method is based on comprehensive engineering, where each installation is designed as a harmonious system, ensuring optimal safety and peace of mind for all parties involved in:
- Site analysis and risk exposure assessment,
- Solar system design,
- Integration of lightning protection and grounding into the initial design
Safety is now an essential foundation of ambitious energy projects, rather than a mere add-on. The Prevectron³ S60 lightning rod illustrates this approach by ensuring maximum coverage of critical infrastructure over a wide radius.
"According to an on-site electrician, its optimal protection radius can reach up to 107 meters for protection level IV when installed at a height of 5 meters"
Thanks to our collaboration with INDELEC, the world leader in lightning protection, these solutions are now deployed in more than 80 countries and certified in accordance with IEC 62305 and NFC 17-102 standards, guaranteeing a level of safety in line with international standards, even in harsh tropical environments.
Together, with a shared vision, we are able to integrate robust and certified solutions, such as lightning rods, surge protectors, and grounding devices specifically designed for hybrid solar systems, right from the design phase. These devices are not only suited to the extreme climatic conditions of the DRC, but are also the result of GoShop Energy's expertise, ensuring optimal protection and unmatched durability.
The results?
In hospitals and humanitarian bases, it is necessary to ensure continuity of care in hospitals, maintain efficient service in humanitarian bases, and support the daily activities of communities, even during periods of heavy rainfall:
- Protection of sensitive equipment,
- Reduction in breakdowns and interruptions,
This partnership guarantees reliable infrastructure, designed to last while protecting our customers' investments.
With GoShop Energy and INDELEC, secure your installations and get a return on your investment. Contact us 👉🏼 https://www.goshop.cd/contactus