The Generator Zero Project was launched in 2008 by TAREA in co-operation with Deutsch-Tansanische Patnerschaft e.V. It is located in the Kariakoo Area of Dar es Salaam. The project is based on a study done in 2007, which had found that in Kariakoo, many shop-owners use small generators in order to be able to continue working during the frequent power cuts. These generators, which are also used in many other parts of the city, not only harm the environment and living conditions of the people, but, considering rising fuel prices, also include a permanent economic risk. However, education and financial issues have kept many shop-owners to turn to more promising solutions.
In order to decrease the number of small generators being used, the TAREA Volunteers conducted Energy Diagnosis in fifteen shops. They evaluated the energy demand of all electric devices in the shop and also took into consideration the time each of these devices is running per day. In conclusion, remarks were made as to where energy and money could be saved. In addition, evaluations concerning possible solutions were made.
In cooperation with the shop owners, three representative shops were then chosen for implementation of further action. It was decided that these shops should be supplied with Battery Backup Systems, a safe, quiet and convenient alternative to generators. These systems store energy while the grid is supplying the shop. When there is a power cut, this energy is used to run the shop without any interruption.
The Battery Backup Systems for the initial three shops were financed by partners in Germany. In return for the financial support, the shops are now acting as Reference Shops in the area, spreading information about this safe and affordable alternative source of energy to generators.
You may visit these Reference Shops at any time to have a look at the technology and gather further information. You are also welcome to TAREA Office at any time.
Activities
Since 2011 – Research on economic viability of Solar Backup Systems
TAREA engaged and supervised a master student of University of Dar es Salaam in a research on an Contracting Model, which refinances the initial investment through saved energy costs to help finance shop owners change from generators to solar backup systems.
October 2011 - Production of enviromently friendly linen bags
In order to promote non-fossil fuel alternatives and to set an example against the environmentally harmful usage of plastic bags TAREA produced four hundred evironmently friendly linen bags with an eye-catching new project logo and contact data, which were sold to a nomial charge.
November 2011 – Visit of the exibition “Miaka 50 ya uhuru Tanzania”
To demonstrate and explain the functionality and advantages of an solar backup system TAREA visited the exibition on the occasion of 50 years of indepence.
March 2012 – Printing of Generator Zero-Brochures and order of Solar Demonstration Kit
For a better promotion of Solar Backup TAREA printed new project leaflets and ordered a solar demonstration kit, which both allows to explain the technology in an attracting way.
June 2012 – Promoting at the National Renewable Energy Day 2012
During the National Renewable Energy Day 2012, which was conducted by the association, TAREA promoted and explained Solar Backup soluntions to guests of the exibition.
Pictures
Downloads
- Brochure with more information (PDF, 2.5 MB)
- Map of Reference Shops (PDF, 1.2 MB)
