Another Step Towards an Energy Self-Sufficient Campus: Transformer Installation Nears Completion at Kashitu

This year, we have taken another major step towards building a reliable energy infrastructure for the Kashitu campus. Following last year's installation of a solar photovoltaic (PV) system with battery storage, delivered in partnership with ČEZ Group, we are now completing the campus's connection to the public electricity distribution grid.

One of the biggest milestones in recent weeks was the delivery and installation of a 500 kVA distribution transformer weighing approximately 1.2 tonnes. A specially designed reinforced concrete foundation was prepared to provide a stable base for the transformer while protecting it from standing water during the rainy season. The entire installation is enclosed by a secure safety fence that meets all requirements for operating high-voltage electrical equipment.

The transformer steps the voltage down from the 11 kV distribution network to the standard low-voltage level of 0.4 kV (400 V), which will supply electricity to the campus buildings, workshops, and other facilities. The connection is made via a new branch from the public 11 kV distribution line leading to the newly constructed transformer station. The transformer was strategically positioned at the edge of the campus, close to the existing distribution network, minimizing the length of the connection, simplifying future maintenance, and improving the overall safety of the installation.

Why is this combination so important?

The photovoltaic system installed last year and the new transformer are designed to work together as one integrated energy system. This infrastructure enables efficient integration of electricity generated by the solar power plant with power supplied from the public grid.

In practice, this means that during grid outages, the photovoltaic system together with the battery storage will provide reliable backup power for the school. Under normal operating conditions, the grid connection will also allow the campus to use more energy-intensive equipment without limitations, including machinery in the carpentry workshop and heavy construction equipment.

Connecting to the public grid also opens the door to making use of surplus electricity generated by the solar power plant. Under Zambia's current regulatory framework, producers of excess electricity can receive credits on their electricity bills based on the amount of energy fed back into the grid. Further regulatory developments are expected to expand these opportunities in the future.

The new transformer provides the school with sufficient electrical capacity not only for its current operations and the completion of the campus construction, but also for its future growth. Stable and reliable electricity supply will create the conditions needed to expand educational programmes, vocational workshops, and community projects that will benefit the entire region.

The electrification of the campus is now entering its final stage. Following the completion of the installation, we are awaiting the final grid connection and certification of the system. What was only a distant vision a few years ago is now steadily becoming a reality, one step at a time.