Progressive solar innovation powered by Audi Centre Centurion
Technews Industry Guide: Sustainable Manufacturing 2022
Electrical Power & Protection
Audi Centre Centurion and SMA, together with ANH Technologies, have engaged in a sustainable and innovative partnership to transform power production and usage at the Audi dealership in Pretoria, Gauteng. The solar panel installation allows the dealership and its customers to use solar PV (photovoltaic) power for its electric vehicle charging and on-site power usage to support retail and servicing.
The future-focused initiative is installed on top of the roof space at Audi Centre Centurion. In total, 112 solar power panels have been installed, substantially reducing the dealership’s reliance on the power grid. Audi Centre Centurion’s Peter Preusse said, “In addition to providing energy support during peak loads and for consistent e-tron charging, this one-of-a-kind initiative underscores our commitment to driving energy transition and sustainability. It is an intelligent charging solution that uses smart systems and technology to provide the dealership with reliable and resilient power, reducing operational costs while accelerating the energy transition conversation in a relevant way.”
AHN Technologies implemented an in-depth energy audit at the premises and installed a range of SMA products and solutions to monitor the PV power provision and status. The system offers load management functionality to ensure measurable electricity cost savings. It also allows for the charging of four Audi e-tron vehicles, using AC and DC power at the same time, using solar power.
“Audi Centre Centurion can use up to 53 kW peak power for increased self-consumption and to store solar power in 67 kWh backup batteries to cater for high demand and peak times,” said Sascha Sauer, head of Audi South Africa. “It’s an incredibly progressive investment, not only in light of the move towards an electric future, but in terms of embedding sustainable energy provision and practices into the building setup and dealership operations.”
The initiative will use an holistic, single-source solution from SMA to ensure easy maintenance, service provision and reliability. In addition to the larger solar platforms installed on site, Audi Centre Centurion has included a smaller 8 kWp SMA Energy System Home that showcases how Audi e-tron customers can conveniently charge their new vehicles at their residence for free, using ideally matched components from a single source.
“This unique Audi e-tron solar charging initiative showcases the progressive approach taken by one of our Audi dealerships and ensures that customers can seamlessly shift towards a more holistic lifestyle and mobility solution. Well done to Audi Centre Centurion on progressing their journey towards sustainability and e-mobility,” concluded Sauer.
Further reading:
South African businesses can alleviate energy price crisis
Electrical Power & Protection
While grid instability remains a concern, the immediate and most critical driver of South African commercial and industrial investment in renewable energy is the escalating cost of electricity.
Read more...
Real-time modelling is the key to a resilient, bi-directional energy grid
Schneider Electric South Africa
Electrical Power & Protection
Utilities and municipalities are facing a challenge as the country’s legacy power grid, engineered for one-way energy delivery from centralised suppliers to end-users, must rapidly evolve to meet a new paradigm.
Read more...
Shielding data centre growth from the looming power crunch
Schneider Electric South Africa
Electrical Power & Protection
Today’s digital economy is placing unprecedented strain on the power grid. The good news is that these challenges are not insurmountable. By adopting proactive strategies such as alternative power sources, infrastructure planning and software, operators can secure capacity, build resilient facilities and scale sustainably.
Read more...
Circuit breaker innovations
Schneider Electric South Africa
Electrical Power & Protection
Recent advancements in circuit breaker technology have seen a major step forward in setting new standards for efficiency and sustainability in data centres, industrial and commercial infrastructure.
Read more...
Common battery tester errors and what they mean
Comtest
Electrical Power & Protection
Battery testers help quickly assess battery health, diagnose issues, and determine whether a battery needs a charge or replacement. This guide covers some of the most common battery tester errors, what they mean, and what can cause them.
Read more...
Cathodic protection design considerations that influence ESG outcomes
Omniflex Remote Monitoring Specialists
Electrical Power & Protection
Major infrastructure like wharves, bridges, pipelines and tanks are at constant risk of corrosion. David Celine, managing director of cathodic protection specialist Omniflex, explains how CP system design can support ESG commitments, while simultaneously lowering costs and improving maintenance capabilities.
Read more...
Africa’s digital future – building critical power infrastructure for data centre leadership
Electrical Power & Protection
Africa’s digital economy is growing rapidly, and countries like South Africa, Nigeria and Kenya are leading the way. However, a major challenge remains. Sustainable and reliable power systems must form the backbone of Africa’s digital growth to ensure lasting success.
Read more...
Recovering condensate and waste heat
Electrical Power & Protection
According to Associated Energy Services, strong partnerships with thermal energy users optimise opportunities to benefit from condensate return. waste heat recovery and the prevention of system contamination.
Read more...
Quantum engine powered by particle entanglement
Electrical Power & Protection
In a landmark achievement that signals a new era in energy research, a team of physicists in China has carried out the first successful test of a quantum engine powered by particle entanglement. This technological breakthrough represents a fundamental shift in our approach to energy production.
Read more...
Advancing sustainability in South Africa’s fruit industry
Schneider Electric South Africa
Electrical Power & Protection
Schneider Electric, together with Technoserve Medium Voltage, has implemented its advanced SF6-free MV switchgear at Two-a-Day situated in Grabouw in the Overberg district.
Read more...
printer friendly version