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| Solar energy for water heating in Uganda  It seems paradox: solar thermal energy use is most common in the countries of the North with the least solar irradiation, while in tropical countries water often is still heated electrically or by means of boilers. But the attitudes are changing, and local decision makers begin to explore the benefits of solar energy systems. The reasons involve both: far reaching economic and ecological long term benefits. In Kampala, Uganda, Nile Breweries decided to turn to solar energy for water heating in cooperation with the German Development Agency GIZ. Renewable energy is becoming a mainstay for the maker of many renown African beverage brands: As part of its comprehensive green energy program, Sabmiller already established a Biogas energy plant, and the new solar installation smoothly fits into the corporation's ambitious "10 priorities" social and environmental responsibility program.After careful product evaluation, Nile Breweries decided to enlist the services of the local renewable energy company Greentech to install a large scale solar thermal installation of a novel type: a field of six Wagner & Co Solar Technology SECUterm 300 thermosiphon systems in parallel and serial connection. Originally these systems were developed to provide safe and reliable hot water supply to single families, and asked for the reasons behind this approach Peter Hoenen, product manager for stand alone systems and in charge of sustainable technology transfer at Wagner & Co in Germany, explained: "We needed something that is rugged and reliable, something that really works, and the SECUterm systems were developed to operate independently under almost any condition." The solution was jointly developed with Greentech's managing director Dilesh Karia. "The system is primarily used for the cafeteria and the showers for the workers. Up to 120 people dine in the cafeteria each day, and the showers are used by about 40 people each day, working 3 shifts" explains Karia, who earned an engineering Masters degree in Germany. "The plant also delivers hot water to the clinic. The collectors are the first step to a sustainable future and going green", he continues enthusiastically. write your comments about the article :: © 2011 Construction News :: home page |