Solar Academy
Solar power has become quite popular in Zambia since the first energy crisis with prolonged load-shedding in 2016. With solar panels becoming more affordable, the expensive component of a solar system is the batteries nowadays. Batteries are also the most vulnerable part of a solar installation. If the solar system is not set up correctly, it will not only fail to deliver the required performance but could also damage the batteries. With a number of inexperienced service providers in solar installations and solutions, the danger is apparent that the perception of solar as a reliable and affordable power source will suffer due to wrong and faulty installations.
Our Approach
In close cooperation with the solar industry in Zambia, the concept of the Solar Academy was developed. Following the credo of Fountain Gate Crafts & Trades school: Relevant training, practical exercises and regular assessments distinguish the Solar Academy from other solar training activities apparent in Zambia. As an institution focused on industry demand, practical training is centered around the practical application of sound theoretical knowledge and understanding.
Focusing on practical application: The Mobile Solar Panel Mounting Training Facility
To ensure that students can practice the installation of all components of a solar system under real, but safe, conditions, the Solar Academy provides a Solar Panel Mounting Training Facility. This device enables the train of mounting solar panels various types o f roofing materials and on different slopes. With that, students can practice the installation of a rooftop solar system with all its components and connections. The Solar Panel Mounting Training Facility is mobile and can be used for on-site training if desired.
Serving the Communities
All training materials – from solar panels, inverters, charge controllers, cables, and the panel mounting training facility are mobile with the large Solar Academy trailer.
Fountain Gate in collaboration with Phaesun GmbH just concluded an excellent training on SelfChill solar self-cooling technologies under the Selfchill Zambia and Tanzania EEP Africa programme.
The aim of the workshop is to impart skills on the assembly of the systems that work with the Self chill technology e.g. Insulation box. This creates employment opportunities and is a form of job creation as people after training, would be able to assemble it locally. It will be available on sale at id Solar Solutions. Future training on this system will also be open to the public.
The Solar Selfchill technology can be used for cooling, ice-making, air conditioning etc These systems are highly efficient as they run on renewable energy and bring hope for locals in rural areas that do not have so much access to power.
