On the campus in Pretoria, seventeen DEGERtrackers D100 are providing the most important South African scientific research and development organization – CSIR – with renewable energy. The dual-axis tracking systems from DEGER have been installed with a capacity of 203 kWp and the power is fed directly into the grid for the use of the institute.
All DEGERtrackers are assembled complete with the patented MLD* sensor and moves the solar modules automatically to the brightest point in the sky. The intelligent DEGER technology generates approximately 45% higher yield compared to fixed tilt systems. Due to the high irradiation values and the optimal conditions in South Africa, even higher output energy has been observed.
The CSIR is working intensively on energy production from renewable sources to ensure security of supply in South Africa and to reduce CO2 emissions in an effort to mitigate climate change. In the last few years the organization has focused on innovations in the field of energy storage. For the operation of wind and water tunnels, laser systems and different laboratories, the annual energy consumption amounts to about 30 GWh. With the current photovoltaic installation, only a fraction of the electricity demand is provided by renewable energy. The aim of CSIR is to build a neutral and independent power supply to minimize the need for conventionally generated and CO2-intensive electricity. Already next year, further photovoltaic systems will be installed on the campus in South Africa.
