Photovoltaic pilot project gives system to three homes |09 September 2011

An initiative of non-governmental organisation (NGO) Sustainability for Seychelles (S4S), the project is being implemented in partnership with the Seychelles Energy Commission (SEC) and the Public Utilities Corporation (PUC). The latter two have helped with logistics during the initial phases and will monitor and analyse energy and water consumption for the duration of the one-year project.

The project is set to cost a total of approximately R150,000, of which R100,000 is a grant from the government under the Economic Reform Programme to S4S through Lungos and R50,000 from SEC and PUC (in-kind).

The project

With the help of the Social Services Department, three families were selected for the project. A memorandum of understanding was signed between the proponents and the families, agreeing on the terms and conditions of the project.

The three houses were fitted with Class A refrigerator, compact fluorescent lamps and a solar water heater. These energy saving appliances were bought locally.

In addition, each house was provided with a water tank for rainwater harvesting and compost and gardening tools for home gardening.  Audits of the houses, in terms of electricity and water consumption, will be carried out before and after the project so that the project team can compare electricity and water consumption. The team will also investigate whether or not the project has affected their lifestyle, and if yes, how so. The information gathered will then be compiled in a report at the end of the project. 

The project aims to alter the families’ lifestyles so that their impact on the environment is reduced in the long term. This sustainable living project can use the three households as models for most families who want to adopt sustainable living practices in Seychelles. In so doing, families can reduce their living expenses and contribute positively to climate change, waste, pollution and habitat degradation.

Contributed