Britam Unveils 183- Solar Panel Car Port at Britam Centre
Nairobi, Kenya- September 6, 2024 … Diversified financial services firm Britam has today unveiled a 183-panel solar car port at Britam Centre. This installation, one of the largest of its kind in the Upperhill area, is a key component of Britam's commitment to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint.
The solar carport is equipped with 183 high-efficiency solar panels, each capable of generating up to 580 watts of solar power. This brings the total installed capacity to 107kWp (kilowatts peak), representing the maximum power output the system can achieve under ideal conditions.
The system uses two inverters, each with a capacity of 50 KVA. These inverters are responsible for converting the DC (Direct Current) power generated by the solar panels into usable AC (Alternating Current) power for the building. With a total inverter capacity of 100 KVA, the system is well-matched to the power output of the solar panels.
Designed as a grid-tied configuration, the system converts solar energy directly into electricity without the need for battery storage, ensuring an efficient and sustainable energy solution for the building.
Since its commissioning, the solar car port has already demonstrated significant energy cost savings for Britam. Even under moderate weather conditions, the system is set to effectively reduce Britam’s energy costs, with expectations of even greater savings during sunnier days.
By generating clean, renewable energy, Britam is taking tangible steps to reduce its carbon footprint. Britam anticipates offsetting approximately 23.3 tonnes of carbon emissions annually with this solar installation.
The installation of these 183 solar panels is just the beginning of Britam's broader plan to scale up its renewable energy initiatives. By December 2024, the company aims to expand the solar carport system, adding more panels to cover additional parking bays. This expansion is part of Britam's strategic approach to leveraging underutilized spaces for sustainable energy production.
“Our 183-panel solar car port is more than just an energy solution- it’s a statement of our commitment to sustainability and innovation,” said the CEO of Britam. “This project not only reduces our energy costs and carbon footprint but also enhances the long-term value of our infrastructure.”
The solar car port is designed to be a durable and multifunctional structure, providing covered parking for employees and visitors while simultaneously generating clean, renewable energy. This dual-purpose design maximizes the efficiency of Britam's parking facilities without compromising parking capacity.
This initiative positions Britam as a leader in environmental responsibility within the business community, aligning with the company’s long-term vision of sustainability.