In 2022, our collaboration with the Health System Development Program Management Unit (PDSS) sparked an extraordinary project to electrify 613 health centers across the Democratic Republic of Congo. These health centers, known as FOSA and supported by PDSS, are the pillars of healthcare access for thousands across the country, playing a crucial role in the health of both rural and urban communities. However, without electricity, their ability to provide safe and effective care after dark or to preserve vital medications, such as vaccines, was severely compromised.
Determined to make a difference, we embarked on this ambitious mission with a single goal in mind: to bring light where it is needed. Despite logistical and geographical challenges, our team rose to the challenge with passion and commitment, delivering and installing solar kits even in the most remote and inaccessible areas.
The results have been transformative. In total, 55 general reference hospitals and 558 health centers were equipped, significantly improving the quality of medical care. These sites cover several provinces across the DRC, including North Kivu, Maniema, Lomami, Sankuru, Upper Lomami, Kwango, Lualaba, Upper Katanga, South Ubangi, Kinshasa, Maindombe, Mongala, and Tshuapa. Healthcare professionals now have the necessary light to operate safely at night, energy for essential medical equipment, and means to preserve vaccines.
The installed solar kits were specifically designed to meet the unique needs of each health facility. The technical composition for the health centers (CS) includes:
- GoSolar photovoltaic panels with a capacity of 1800 kWc,
- BYD lithium batteries of 5 kWh,
- Victron 3kVA charger converters,
- Victron MPPT 150/35 solar charge regulators,
- Victron Cerbo-GX control modules,
- Manual bypass inverters.
For the general reference hospitals (HGR), the specifications were even more robust:
- GoSolar photovoltaic panels with a capacity of 9000 kWc,
- BYD lithium batteries of 25 kWh,
- Victron 8kVA charger converters,
- Victron MPPT 250/85 solar charge regulators,
- Victron Cerbo-GX control modules,
- Manual bypass inverters.
Despite the challenges encountered in the field, such as difficult access due to road conditions, our determination never waned. Each solar kit installation represented a step further towards improving healthcare and the well-being of the most vulnerable communities.
This project is not just a technical achievement; it is a major advancement in our mission to support communities across the DRC. In collaboration with PDSS, we have not only illuminated health centers but also brought hope and security to thousands of people.
At GoShop Energy, each project is a step further towards a brighter and healthier future for all.