- new offices and a borehole both solar powered
Pandamatenga-Lesoma-Kazungula (PALEKA) community trust has this week officially opened its new offices in Kazungula and commissioned a borehole at the 256-cattle post located in the outskirts of Kazungula village.
The two projects which are 100% solar system operational marked a milestone in the Trust’s ongoing developments. The projects were facilitated by Grand Georick Energy, a citizen owned company.
The new offices operate on solar with a capacity of 24 kilowatts, that powers the building. The borehole also uses a solar system which ensures sustainable water extraction using a submersible pump.
PALEKA Community Trust Chairman, Kabozu Kabozu noted that the new offices would bring all the services closer to the people of PALEKA, and promote accountability and transparency. He also stated that the boreholes at the 256 cattle post will promote access to portable water, and ensure that farmers no longer travel distances to access water.
Chobe Member of Parliament, Simasiku Mapulanga has commended PALEKA for installing the solar system in their facilities, noting the developments would provide cost savings, ensure energy independence and reliability, and promote environmental sustainability.
Mapulanga has further stated that the opening of the PALEKA Community Trust Office represents more than a building as it represents access to information, governance, accountability and opportunity.
“In the same spirit, the commissioning of 256 cattle post borehole is a strategic investment in agricultural development and livestock sustainability. With reliable water sources, farmers will no longer travel long distances in search of water. Our livestock will be healthier, productivity will improve, and economic stability will be strengthened across our communities,” he said.
For his part, Grand Georick Energy Director Matengu Matengu said that the unveiling of the building is about opening a future powered by innovation, sustainability and smart energy choices.
He said that solar system installed at the offices proof that clean energy is not something for the future, it is something that can be used instantly to improve daily lives. Matengu said that the installation of the solar system means that much of the power used at the building comes directly from the sun, reducing dependence on expensive grid electricity.
According to him, the system is controlled by a three-phase hybrid inverter, also rated at 24 kilowatts. He added that this ensures that electricity is shared safely and evenly throughout the building, allowing both normal office equipment and heavier machinery to run smoothly.
“We also have battery storage of 30 kilowatt-hours. This stores extra solar power during the day so that it can be used at night or when the sun is not shining. In simple terms, even when the sun goes down, the benefits of solar continue,” he said
He highlighted the importance, stating that it helps care for the environment. Matengu said that the use of clean power, reduce pollution and carbon emissions, contributing to a healthier Botswana. He added that this supports Vision 2036, which calls on all to build a sustainable, prosperous and environmentally responsible nation.
