Aquion Energy, Inc., manufacturer of Aspen saltwater batteries and energy storage systems, has announced a newly installed off-grid microgrid at a nature lodge resort in Kruger National Park in South Africa. The microgrid consists of a 55 kWh Aquion Aspen battery bank, paired with a 10 kW solar array.

The solar array and Aquion's Aspen batteries provide full power for the camp, which consists of four luxury "tents," a central lounge, swimming pool, and a water pressure pump for drinking water. The batteries have been sized to comfortably support the site's loads during overcast conditions before getting assistance from a back-up diesel generator. The microgrid operates silently, enabling guests to peacefully enjoy the wildlife and beautiful landscape. 

The system was designed, installed, and integrated by Solarsun Solutions (Pty) Ltd, with support from Capetown-based SolarWorld Africa (Pty) Ltd, a leading South African solar energy services company. 

Off-grid lodging facilities typically use diesel generators as their primary power source, resulting in air and noise pollution. A solar and energy storage microgrid enables the switch to a quiet and clean energy system. Aquion's Aspen batteries offer sustainable and long-lasting energy storage that enables remote resorts to maximize their use of renewables and minimize reliance on diesel generators. Aspen batteries have a unique and environmentally friendly electrochemical design, and are the first and only batteries in the world to be Cradle to Cradle Certifiedâ„¢. 

Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa. It covers an area of nearly 20,000 square kilometers (7,523 square miles) in northeastern South Africa. Areas of the park were first protected by the government of the South African Republic in 1898, and it became the country's first national park in 1926.

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