A group of villages in Godo Olo, Suriname, have been fitted with a hybrid system that combines solar generation and battery storage to ensure a stable and reliable power supply.
Situated along the Tapanahony River in the Sipaliwini district, the village traditionally relied on diesel generators for electricity, which only ran for a few hours a day.
The off-grid project, which represents a sustainable step forward by reducing dependence on fossil fuels and minimizing carbon emissions, provides 24-hour power to 450 homes in the village.
In total, the project integrates seven photovoltaic inverters of 36 kW each, a BESS (Battery Energy Storage System) with PCS (Power Conversion System) of 250 kW from ATESS Power, a 1 MWh battery system and a 168 kW diesel generator.
System operation
During the day, the solar power plant supplies power to the village group and stores the surplus in batteries (BESS). At night, the batteries provide stored energy until they reach 20% state of charge. At this point, the diesel generator comes into play, working efficiently to charge the batteries to 50% of their capacity.
With half the charge in the batteries, the BESS guarantees energy for the village until dawn, when photovoltaic generation resumes, replenishing the system for the next cycle.
This system effectively harnesses renewable energy during peak production hours, reduces generator running time and saves fuel, which also means fewer emissions and lower costs for the village.
Impact and sustainability
The microgrid project, led by Suriname’s Ministry of Natural Resources (NH) and supported by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), is a crucial step towards the country’s energy independence and sustainability.
Since its activation in 2021, the microgrid has provided uninterrupted electricity to the residents of Godo Olo, promoting growth, safety, and improved quality of life. With continuous power, residents now benefit from improved lighting, communication, and access to essential services, while the Surinamese government reduces its reliance on diesel.
“ATESS is honored to contribute to the sustainable transformation of energy access in Godo Olo. Our technology not only powers the villages, but also serves as a model for similar initiatives in other remote communities around the world,” the company said.
“This project exemplifies how hybrid energy systems can redefine what is possible for off-grid communities by combining environmental stewardship with practical and impactful infrastructure,” they said.
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