First bidirectional electricity meter installed at pre-school

Update

GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - In a landmark move towards sustainability, Graaff-Reinet has installed its first bidirectional electricity meter at Union Pre-school. This pioneering effort marks a significant step in the town's journey to becoming more environmentally friendly and energy efficient.

On Friday 31 May, Union Pre-school became the first entity in Graaff-Reinet to have this innovative meter installed, a project spearheaded by the Dr Beyers Naudé Local Municipality (DBNLM) and Stellenbosch University Utility Consulting Services (led by Christo Nicholls).

The installation is not just a technological upgrade, it's a gateway to more sustainable energy practices. The smart meter enables the preschool to feed excess solar energy back into the municipal grid, receiving compensation at a rate of R1 per kWh.

Given the school's energy consumption patterns, particularly low usage during weekends, holidays and afternoons, the potential for generating and exporting excess energy is substantial. For instance, on 1 June, the school successfully exported 18 kWh to the grid. The school's system includes a quality, approved inverter and twelve solar panels, highlighting their commitment to renewable energy.

The installation team, consisting of Tos van Zyl (head of DBNLM Electrical Department), Bennie Arends (Director of Infrastructure at DBNLM), Stephan Fourie (project manager at DBNLM) and Christo Nicolls (Utility Consulting Services), executed the project efficiently. The new smart meter offers advanced functionalities, including load management, data storage, and simplified billing for bidirectional power, making it easier for the DBNLM and Utility Consulting Services to manage energy flow and payments.

Residents with solar systems are encouraged to join this initiative. By registering at https://mymunicapp.co.za, they can apply to switch to the new system and start earning from their surplus solar energy.

The installation of the bidirectional meter at Union Preschool is a milestone for Graaff-Reinet, setting a precedent for other institutions and households to follow suit in embracing sustainable energy solutions. As the town continues on this path, it not only contributes to a greener future but also fosters a community of energy-conscious citizens.

For more information, visit the official https://mymunicapp.co.za, website