Electrical Power & Protection


Harnessing the power of the sun

Technews Industry Guide: Sustainable Manufacturing 2023 Electrical Power & Protection

“Necessity is the mother of invention”, and in an era where environmental sustainability has become today’s byword, innovative companies are taking bold steps to reshape the future of energy consumption. Among these trailblazers is Iritron, a renowned technology solutions provider that has established an enviable presence in the field of sustainable solutions.

With a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, Neels van der Walt, senior business development manager at Iritron, explains that the company is applying its extensive technical expertise in the transition towards a cleaner, greener future. “Our new solar division was born out of solving a remote power solution for the mining industry and its successful application in this sector has spawned a range of machines for other applications in agriculture and beyond, bolstering Iritron’s collection of sustainable solutions,” he adds.

Solar trailers for agriculture

Iritron believes that its solar trailers can bring huge benefits to farmers who require a source of power in remote areas. “Having the ability to power irrigation systems, lighting and machinery, Iritron’s solar trailers provide a reliable and eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuel-based generators,” says Van der Walt. By reducing dependence on diesel and minimising greenhouse gas emissions, Iritron is empowering farmers to embrace sustainable practices, while improving productivity and profitability.”

Solar-powered water pumping systems

Access to clean water is especially important in a rural setting or following a natural disaster, where solar-powered water pumping systems can provide an efficient and cost-effective way to extract or transfer water from various sources such as boreholes, rivers and dams. “By replacing conventional pumps that rely on fossil fuels, our cost-effective solar solutions help conserve energy, reduce carbon emissions and ensure a sustainable water supply for communities in need.”

Off-grid solar solutions

In remote areas, where grid connectivity is limited or non-existent, Iritron’s off-grid solar solutions can provide complete energy independence. Utilising solar panels, intelligent control systems, and advanced battery storage technology provides reliable electricity for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. “By liberating communities from the constraints of conventional power grids, Iritron enables sustainable development, improves living standards, and unlocks economic opportunities,” explains Van der Walt.

Other sustainable solutions

While Iritron’s solar division is at the forefront of their sustainable offerings, the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility extends beyond solar power. Here are a few notable sustainable heat recovery solutions offered by Iritron:

Gas turbine generators: Iritron collaborated with consulting engineers to power and automate gas turbine combined-cycle generators utilising waste heat recovery technology, combining high efficiency and low emissions to provide clean and reliable power generation. By utilising natural gas, a cleaner-burning alternative to coal or oil, these generators are not only more cost-effective than other fuels, but cleaner combustion contributes to reduced greenhouse gas emissions, while meeting the energy demands of various industries.

Burning of biomass: The burning of macadamia nut husks, a byproduct of the nut processing industry, can generate heat and energy. Iritron, working with consulting engineers, employs this sustainable practice to minimise waste and produce valuable thermal energy, thereby reducing the reliance on fossil fuels for heating and other industrial processes.

Burning of bagasse: Van der Walt explains that Iritron recognises the potential of bagasse, a fibrous residue left after sugarcane processing, as a renewable energy source. By burning bagasse to fire boilers, steam and electricity can be generated, promoting the use of biomass and reducing reliance on fossil fuels in the sugar industry.

“Iritron’s sustainable solutions are already paving the way for a cleaner and greener future. Through our new solar division, we are harnessing the power of the sun to drive agricultural productivity, provide clean water access, and bring energy to off-grid areas. “Moreover, gas turbine generators, burning of macadamia nut husks, and utilisation of bagasse illustrates our multifaceted approach to sustainability. By embracing Iritron’s ecological power solutions, individuals, communities, and industries can make a positive impact on the environment, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient planet,” he concludes.


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