In recent years, there has been a surge in the use of solar energy in East Africa, revolutionizing the way the region is powered. From small homes to large commercial properties, solar has become a viable and sustainable alternative to traditional forms of energy. This shift towards solar is not just a trend, it is a movement that is gaining momentum and transforming the industry.
One of the industries that have embraced the power of solar is the tourism sector, particularly in Tanzania. The country’s tourism industry is a significant contributor to its economy, with over two million tourists visiting the country annually. With the rise of eco-tourism and the need for sustainable and responsible travel, the use of solar energy has become a priority for many of the country’s tourism operators.
One such operator is Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge, a luxurious eco-resort nestled on a hill overlooking the stunning Serengeti plains. The lodge has taken great strides to reduce its environmental impact, working closely with GadgetroniX, Tanzania’s leading alternative energy solutions provider, to convert its operations to solar power. This move has not only reduced the resort’s carbon footprint but has also provided guests with a more responsible vacation experience.
The lodge generates 99% of its power needs through solar energy, allowing it to operate entirely off-grid. The switch to renewable energy has improved the efficiency, longevity, and usability of the lodge’s facilities and services, earning high praise from both staff and guests. The solar power system is not only reliable but also provides a constant supply of energy, eliminating the need for burning hundreds of liters of diesel fuel daily and generator services, resulting in reduced noise pollution and costs.
The Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge’s solar power system is not just environmentally responsible, but it is also luxurious. Guests can indulge in high-tech equipment, including hair dryers and coffee makers in each tent, spacious en-suite bathrooms with flushing toilets, hand basins, and outdoor solar-powered heaters for hot showers, all overlooking the Serengeti grasslands. The facilities allow guests to indulge in luxury without compromising on ecological sustainability.
In addition to the solar power system, the lodge boasts a Reverse Osmosis water purification system that utilizes solar power to purify water for drinking and serving the neighboring Tanganyika Wilderness Camps. The system has a capacity of 5,000 liters per hour and produces crystal-clear water, which is further treated with UV to ensure it is safe for drinking. This not only ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay for guests but also demonstrates the lodge’s commitment to sustainability.
The shift towards solar energy is not just limited to the tourism sector. The government of Tanzania has also made significant strides in promoting renewable energy and encouraging investment in the sector. The country’s renewable energy potential is vast, with abundant solar and wind resources, and the government is keen to tap into this potential to improve access to electricity for its citizens.
The growth of the solar industry in East Africa is a testament to the power of renewable energy and its potential to transform the region’s economy. Solar is no longer just a niche industry but a viable and sustainable alternative to traditional forms of energy. As more and more businesses and individuals make the switch to solar, the industry will continue to grow and revolutionize the way we power our world. At Tamangeti, we are proud to be a part of this movement, providing innovative and reliable solar solutions to businesses and individuals across East Africa.
