Bunia: Solar Power Transforms Energy Management at the EQUITY BCDC Branch
Find out how GoShop Energy’s hybrid solar solution ensures a reliable power supply for the EQUITY BCDC office in Bunia, reducing its fuel consumption by 60% year-round.
50%
CO2 reduction
50%
energy saving
6.000
tons produced every year
In Bunia, in the northeastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, access to a stable power supply is essential for the smooth operation of business activities. For a bank, the security of its information systems and the protection of its reputation are crucial. A reliable and stable power supply is, therefore, an essential pillar of business continuity, ensuring service quality and providing both employees and customers with greater peace of mind by minimizing disruptions caused by power outages. The use of solar energy also helps strengthen the institution’s resilience, while reducing its carbon footprint and contributing to a sustainable energy transition.
It is in this context that the EQUITY BCDC branch in Bunia, the capital of Ituri Province, has opted to implement a hybrid solar solution designed to strengthen its electricity supply while reducing its reliance on the generator and the associated costs.
Daily Reliance on the Generator
Before the solar solution was commissioned, the generator was one of the agency’s main sources of electricity, ensuring its round-the-clock operation. This prolonged use resulted in significant fuel consumption, compounded by the costs associated with the generator’s maintenance and regular operation
A Transition to More Efficient Energy Management
To address this issue, a hybrid solar solution was installed and commissioned at the EQUITY BCDC office in Bunia. This system includes:
- 24 solar panels rated at 620 Wp, for a total photovoltaic capacity of 14.88 kWc
- 3 MPPT 250/85 controllers;
8 BYD Flex 48 V / 5 kWh batteries, providing approximately 40 kWh of storage capacity;
- Two Quattro 48/10,000 VA inverters;
- A remote monitoring system;
- A remote start function for the generator, allowing it to be started as needed.
This system allows solar power and energy storage to supply power to the entire bank, with the exception of the air conditioning units, while the generator is now reserved as a backup solution.
From the Main Generator to a Hybrid Solar System: A Tangible Change
The system’s commissioning marks a significant evolution in the branch’s energy management. Previously used daily, the generator is now only activated as needed by the site.
“We are particularly satisfied and relieved by the results achieved since the system went live, which has significantly reduced the daily use of the generator.”
With 14.88 kWc of photovoltaic capacity and nearly 40 kWh of storage, this solution promotes the efficient use of energy. Remote monitoring and automated generator startup also help further optimize its operation.
Results
A 60% reduction in fuel consumption throughout the year, a savings of 6 to 8 hours of daily generator runtime, and an estimated ROI of less than 4 years.
This project demonstrates the effectiveness of an approach that combines solar power, energy storage, automation, and a generator to meet a banking institution’s service continuity requirements.
Want to secure the power supply for your strategic sites? Contact the experts at GoShop Energy
GoShop Energy, Your Energy Provider