Natfort Energy, pioneers of solar energy products and services in Zimbabwe continues to make an impact ever since their formation and entry into the market over 8 years ago. The company initially focused on providing residential and off-grid small-home solar and have transformed immensely since then.
They have significantly grown, acquiring valuable expertise and knowledge in delivering solar project engineering, procurement, construction, and management (EPCM) services for commercial, industrial, and residential sectors in Zimbabwe. The company has affiliations with REAZ, ZERA and PRAZ, showing that they are legitimate players in the energy industry and that their work is regulated and recognised by professional bodies.
“Natfort Energy is primarily focused on solar energy solutions. We offer solar project engineering, procurement, construction, and management services for commercial, industrial, and residential sectors in Zimbabwe,” said Natfort Energy CEO Kudzanai Chitiva.
When designing solar solutions for clients, the company considers among others:
Roof Size and Orientation: The size, shape, and orientation of the roof are important factors in determining the solar panel layout and the maximum capacity of the system. A larger roof area with favourable orientation (north-facing in the Southern Hemisphere) allows for more solar panels and increased energy generation.
Energy Usage and Load Analysis: Natfort Energy assesses the energy needs of the client by analysing their historical energy usage patterns. This analysis helps determine the appropriate system size required to meet the facilities energy demand
Considerations: Natfort Energy may also consider the client’s budget and financial goals. They might offer various financing options or provide guidance on available incentives, tax credits, or rebates to make the solar solution more affordable for the residential clients.
Their approach differs for commercial and industrial buildings compared to residential properties due to several factors. Key differences in the approach include the following: scale and system size; roof or ground space availability; load profile and energy consumption patterns; financing and return on investment (ROI); and grid integration and net metering.
Overall, Natfort Energy’s approach to solar installation for commercial and industrial buildings involves a comprehensive assessment, larger-scale systems, tailored financial solutions, and considerations specific to the commercial and industrial sector’s energy requirements and regulations.
The company offers financing options and payment plans to make solar power more accessible for homeowners and businesses. While the specific details of their financing options may vary, they often provide solar loans through financial institutions, power purchase agreements (PPAs), leasing options, and pay-as-you-go (PAYGO) models.“These financing options and payment plans aim to make solar power more affordable and accessible by spreading out the costs over time. We have specific arrangements and partnerships in place to offer these options, and customers can inquire directly with us to learn more about the available options for their specific needs,” said Chitiva.
Natfort Energy recently implemented renewable energy solutions for Zimre Holdings, an industrial client located in the Smatsatsa Office Park in Harare. The project involved the installation of a 24kVA roof mounted solar system. This collaborative project aimed to revolutionise the energy landscape by harnessing renewable sources to meet the operational needs of the client.
The project’s scope encompassed the deployment of a robust infrastructure, featuring a 15.4-kilowatt peak solar PV
array complemented by three 8kVA Sunsynk inverters synchronised to deliver a combined output of 24kVA
Moreover, a meticulously engineered 57.6-kilowatt-hour battery bank was integrated into the system, ensuring efficient energy storage and utilisation. As part of a commitment to ensuring seamless integration and optimal utilisation of the solar hybrid PV system installed for Zimre Holdings, Natfort Energy conducted an end-user training session. This training initiative aimed to empower the staff with the requisite knowledge and skills
to effectively manage the power system, ensuring its efficient operation and longevity.
“Through meticulous planning, seamless execution, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability, Natfort Energy endeavours to set new benchmarks in renewable energy deployment. Zimre Holdings stands as a testament to our collective efforts in driving the transition towards a greener and more sustainable future,” said Chitiva. In alignment with their service commitment, Natfort Energy will provide bi-annual operation and maintenance services for the installed solar photovoltaic system.
This ongoing support underscores its dedication to long-term partnerships and customer satisfaction. It is worth noting that operations and maintenance services will be provided free of charge during the initial one-year period post-commissioning and acceptance, after which Natfort Energy will institute a billing mechanism for continued maintenance services.
The successful completion of the project exemplifies Natfort Energy’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer-centric solutions.
They look forward to continued collaboration with Zimre Holdings and remain dedicated to advancing sustainable energy initiatives for the benefit of Zimbabwe’s communities and environment.Operationalization of the project has helped Zimre Holdings generate clean electricity to power their operations. The system will allow Zimre Holdings to reduce their reliance on grid electricity and contribute to a more sustainable energy future. The project will further benefit from Net Metering, through feeding excess electricity into the grid.
This will result in a shorter investment payback period given that Zimre Holdings will earn electricity credits from the utility but will also ensure Zimre Holdings is playing a part in alleviating electricity shortages currently grappling the country.
The successful installation of the solar hybrid PV system marks a significant milestone in our collaboration with Zimre Holdings. Despite encountering challenges such as alterations in available roof space for mounting solar panels, Natfort Energy remained steadfast in our commitment to deliver on the project objectives, showcasing resilience and adaptability throughout the process.
This project underscores our dedication to advancing Zimbabwe’s energy sector and solidifies our position as a trusted partner in driving sustainable energy solutions,” he said. Another renewable energy solution project was successfully completed for Arrupe Jesuit University, a client based in Harare. The project involved the installation of a roof-mounted solar PV module with an installed capacity of 60 kWp.
Natfort Energy believes in the power of renewable energy to create a sustainable future. They are passionate about educating their potential clients on the environmental benefits of utilising renewable energy solutions by sharing examples of individuals, businesses, and communities that have adopted renewable energy solutions.
They help potential clients visualise the benefits and imagine the positive impact on their own lives. Chitiva highlighted that the company was also following emerging trends in e-cooking and cold storage in the renewable energy sector. These trends include solar-powered e-cooking systems and renewable-powered cold chain solutions.They actively engage in initiatives and partnerships to promote the wider adoption of renewable energy solutions in Zimbabwe, collaborating closely with local communities to empower individuals and increase awareness about renewable energy options.
Additionally, they engage with financial institutions to develop innovative financing models for renewable energy projects, making clean energy more accessible and affordable. hese initiatives and partnerships create a sustainable energy future for Zimbabwe and empowering communities to embrace renewable energy solutions. Natfort Energy is always open for strategic partnerships and collaboration opportunities to ensure a sustainable future.
The CEO can be contacted on : kudzi@natfortenergy.com.
Text by Martin Chemhere
From: S&D ISSUE 64
