LONGi has provided an update on the status of a 1.2MW rooftop system at Simba Cement’s premises in the Kenyan capital Nairobi, the first in East Africa to utilize Hi-MO X6 modules, showcasing the potential for industrial-scale solar solutions in the region.
The project developer and EPC, New Southern Energy (NSE) has praised the aesthetic appeal and high efficiency of the Hi-MO X6 product, based on an innovative design that eliminates the traditional busbar for a smoother surface, the use of Huawei's on-grid 100KW inverter solution further emphasizing the commitment to integrating top-tier PV and inverter brands for a project expected to deliver an annual 596.4MWh of electricity. This is particularly relevant given a recent increase in the fuel levy on electricity by Kenya's Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
The growing need for renewable energy in Kenya is part of a progression among businesses to reduce their reliance on traditional power sources and explore self-generation options. This trend is driven by the desire for a more stable and cost-effective energy supply, and it is supported by the country’s Sustainable Development Goals focused on achieving 100% renewable energy use by 2030. It is hoped that the success of projects such as the Simba Cement system will encourage more companies to invest in renewable energy, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future for Kenya and the African continent as a whole.