View source for Eco-safari Fuelled By Sunlight and Batteries

Case study from Tanzania

===Overview===
Located in the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, a unique eco-safari project has been implemented, showcasing the successful integration of solar energy and lead battery storage in off-grid safari lodges. This case study highlights the technical specifications and outcomes of the project, as detailed in two publications. <ref name=":0">"Lead batteries: energy storage case study - Eco-safari fuelled by sunlight and batteries", published by the Consortium for Battery Innovation (CBI) in March 2022, link to the publication: https://batteryinnovation.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/CBI-Case-Study-Tanzania.Asantys.FINAL_.pdf</ref> <ref name=":1">This case study is also featured and detailed in the "E-mobility & DRE Innovations in Emerging Economies" publication, #4.1 E-mobility solutions with in-house DRE technology, p.14-15 [[Publication - E-mobility & DRE Innovations in Emerging Economies|here]] </ref> The project started in January 2018 is stil ongoing.

[[File:Tanzania Eco-safari fuelled by sunlight Asantys Systems GmbH.jpg|frameless]]

=== Context and Decentralised Renewable Energy (DRE) and E-Mobility Solutions ===
The [https://www.tanganyika.com/index.php?lg=en Tanganyika Expeditions] lodges, disconnected from the Tanzanian utility grid, now operate with a self-sufficient electricity supply generated from sustainable solar power. 

The integration of solar power has enabled the lodges to provide electricity 24/7, catering to accommodation, laundry facilities, and even warming up shower water for guests. In addition, the safari vehicles have transitioned from diesel to electric, reducing emissions and promoting eco-tourism, as noted in the publication by UNIDO ITPO Germany & Alliance for Rural Electrification <ref name=":1" />.

===Technical Specifications===

==== The energy storage systems ====
As described in the Consortium for Battery Innovation publication <ref name=":0" />, the energy storage systems, developed by energy consultant Harald Olk and supplied by system integrator [https://www.asantys.com/?lang=en Asantys Systems GmbH], feature two SMA stand-alone grids with 55 kW peak PV power, lead battery storage, and electric vehicles charged with PV power.

==== Components used ====

* SMA Sunny Tripower PV inverters
* Lead-SLA batteries for the stationary power systems
* Lithium-ion Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries for the vehicles
* Multicluster Box 6 each with 6 SMA battery inverters Sunny Island 8.0

==== Inhouse DRE capacity ====
With a total capacity of 2 x 55 kWp solar systems and 2 x 220 kWh battery storage systems, the lodges achieved a sustainable and reliable power supply.

[[File:Tanzania Eco-safari fuelled by sunlight 2 Asantys Systems GmbH.jpg|frameless]]

==== Energy requirements for individual safari vehicles and max operating distance per single charge ====

* Battery capacity of 40-80 kWh depending on the electric vehicle type
* 130-240 km depending on the electric vehicle type
[[File:Tanzania_Electric_safari_vehicle_Photo_credit_Asantys_Systems_GmbH.jpg|alt=|frameless]]

=== Outcomes and Environmental Benefits ===

==== Outcomes ====
The outcomes of the project include lowered operational costs, reduced emissions and noise pollution, both for the animals and the visitors, independence from conventional fuel usage and a shift towards clean solar energy. The safari and service vehicles are then charged using the [https://www.sma.de/en/ SMA] stand-alone grid supplied with solar power. The solar batteries used to store the energy for the lodges are fully recyclable at end-of-life, and provide a high-performing, safe and sustainable solution.

==== Engagement with Local community ====
The case study also emphasizes the importance of engaging the local community throughout the implementation process, including needs assessment, training on solar PV and storage systems, and EV usage.

=== Conclusion and Inspiration ===
This case study showcases the successful implementation of solar integration in the eco-safari lodges of the Serengeti, providing valuable insights into the technical specifications, outcomes, and benefits of this sustainable energy solution.

It serves as an inspiring example for similar off-grid projects in the tourism industry, promoting environmental preservation and fostering a greener future.

“''A project that demonstrates the great potential for a climate-friendly mobility transition in Africa through used vehicle conversion to e-drive and battery powering by solar electricity''.”

Johannes Germ, Managing Director, Asantys Systems GmbH 

[[File:Tanzania Electric safari vehicle Photo credits Asantys Systems GmbH.jpg|frameless]]
 


<references />
[[Category:Solar]]
[[Category:Mobility]]
[[Category:Off-grid]]
[[Category:Photovoltaic (PV)]]
[[Category:Impacts]]
[[Category:Case Study]]
[[Category:Africa]]
[[Category:Tanzania]]
[[Category:Energy Transition]]
[[Category:Renewable Energy]]