PROGRESS REPORT NO 1:

Installation of Solar Powered Cooling Systems in

Oromia National Region, Ethiopia

Prepared By: Sunspot Energy Co. Ltd

Date: 5th April 2024

Client:
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Table of Contents

Executive Summary .......................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.

1. Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 4
2. Project Overview ......................................................................................................................... 4
3. Methodology and Execution Approach ....................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Phase One A Components ............................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
Descriptions of Milk and Solar PV System Components ............................................................. 6
4. Project Implementation Strategy ............................................................................................... 8
5. Conclusion ................................................................................................................................... 9

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This document presents an overview of the initial phase of implementing solar-powered milk cooling
systems in select districts of the Oromia National Region, Ethiopia. This initiative, a collaborative effort
between Solidaridad and Sunspot Energy, aims to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of dairy
production through renewable energy solutions. The report encompasses the project scope,
methodology, and a detailed account of the preparatory components achieved in phase one, which
constitute 40% of the contractual obligations.

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PROGRESS REPORT NO. 1: SUPPLY AND INSTALLATION

OF 4 NO. SOLAR POWERED MILK COOLING SYSTEMS –
ODFB PROJECT

1. Introduction
Commissioned by Solidaridad, Sunspot Energy undertakes the pivotal project aimed at transforming the
dairy sector in Oromia by integrating solar technology to improve milk preservation and reduce spoilage.
The initiative targets the Sululta, Berek, Aletu, and Qimbit districts, leveraging their solar potential to
benefit the Oromia Dairy Farmers Bounty (ODFB).

Project Data;
Project Name SOLAR MILK COOLING SYSTEMS FOR OROMIA DAIRY
FARMERS BOUNTY (ODFB)

1.0 Location Sululta, Berek, Aleltu and Qimbit districts of North Oromia,
Ethiopia

2.0 Scope Capacity Assessment, Training, Design and Installation of

4 no. Pre-Configured Solar Powered Milk Coolers

3.0 Client Solidaridad East Africa

2. Project Overview
 Objective:
To deploy 4 No. solar-powered cooling systems, thus enhance the livelihoods of dairy farmers in Oromia
Region, decreasing energy costs, and fostering renewable energy in dairy operations.

 Scope:
The initial phase focuses on developing a capacity assessment methodology, generating system
designs and training materials, fabricating milk coolers, and supplying a complete solar PV system.

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PROJECT PHASING AND IMPLEMENTATION APPROACH;

The project inception meeting was held on 12th February 2024 and the Solidaridad team emphasized on
the urgency of the assignment while maintaining high quality output/outcomes. The Solidaridad team
guided that Sunspot could start the preparatory work in parallel to completing the agreement

The Project will be implemented in two phases as follows;

Phase 1:
Phase 1 of this project will be implemented in 3 Stages as described in Fig 1: Phase 1. below. As
indicated in the implementation plan, Stage 2 of the project will be completed on 9th April 2024. The
Client – Solidaridad, is expected to visit Sunspot Energy premises and conduct an inspection of
completed components as per the Contract, and branding of the same, as shown in the implementation
Plan. Phase 1 will conclude on 4th May 2024, with all system components having been delivered to site.

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Phase 2:
During this phase, the following will be carried out;
1. Installation of 4 No. Solar powered milk cooling systems, testing and commissioning of the same;
2. On-job training for 5 members of each farmers group
3. Preparation of as-built drawings, and operation manuals
Phase 2 of the project will run for a duration of 1 month, and is expected to be completed by 3rd June,
2024.

TASKS AND COMPONENTS

1. Methodology for Capacity Assessment
A strategic approach has been formulated to evaluate the specific needs, energy demands, and
optimization strategies for the effective operation of the cooling systems. These will be availed by 9th
April 2024.

2. System Design and Training Manuals:

Comprehensive design blueprints and accessible training guides have been prepared to ensure efficient
system deployment and maintenance.

Descriptions of Milk and Solar PV System Components

3. Milk Coolers with Ice Bank:

Four (4) No. milk coolers +ice bank have been custom-made, designed to efficiently lower temperatures
and preserve milk quality. These coolers are equipped with state-of-the-art refrigeration technology,
ensuring optimal performance under varying conditions.

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Figure 1: 500L Milk Cooling Tank with Ice Bank

Solar Panels:
A total of 48Kw, each 575Watts, worth of high-efficiency solar panels have been procured and allocated
to power the cooling units. These panels are designed for maximum sunlight absorption and conversion,
ensuring reliable energy supply. The provided panels will power all 4 of the cooling systems.

Figure 2: 575W Jinko Solar PV Module

Battery Bank:
A robust 20kWh lithium-ion battery bank has been procured, each battery contains 6000 cycles and is
capable of storing sufficient energy to maintain the continuous operation of one milk cooler during
periods without sunlight, thereby guaranteeing the reliability of the cooling service. The battery bank has
been provided as per specifications, provided in our proposal. with correct usage, the battery system is

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expected to last for 15 years. During stage 2 (this stage), a battery bank fr 1 cooling system will be
provided for inspection.

Figure 3: 5KWh BYD LiFePO4 battery

Inverter:
An 8kW single-phase inverter has been included to efficiently convert the DC output from the solar
panels and battery bank into AC power, suitable for running the milk cooling infrastructure.

Figure 4: 8kW Deye Hybrid Inverter

These components, meticulously selected for their reliability and efficiency, represent a significant
progression towards fulfilling the project's objectives, constituting 40% of the total contract value.

4. Project Implementation Strategy

A phased approach underpins the project, starting with the preparatory activities detailed in this report.
The subsequent stages will involve the physical installation of the systems, extensive training for local
operators, and the development of a maintenance regimen to ensure sustainable operation.

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5. Conclusion
The commencement of this project signifies a landmark step towards the sustainable evolution of the
dairy industry in Oromia, through the adoption of renewable energy technologies. With the collaborative
efforts of Sunspot Energy and Solidaridad, the project is on track to realize its vision of revolutionizing
milk preservation, setting a benchmark for renewable energy integration in agriculture.