BEKA Schréder supplied the solar highmast lighting solution at the Sutherland Community Health Centre in the Northern Cape province, complying with regulations as defined in the Government Gazette regarding lighting within the Sutherland Central Astronomy Advantage Area.
The Sutherland Community Health Centre required an area lighting solution to enhance safety for both staff and patients visiting the clinic. Solar lighting was selected to avoid adding strain to the existing electrical infrastructure, and it also proved to be the most cost-effective option over time compared to a grid-connected installation. Additionally, a solar-powered lighting system aligns with sustainability goals, reducing carbon emissions and advancing green technology initiatives.
BEKA Schréder was the sole provider able to fulfil the unique requirements of the Sutherland Central Astronomy Advantage Area lighting standards. The South African designed and manufactured SOLARFLOOD solar highmast lighting solution with Amber LEDs, raked at 0° and dimmed to 30% to comply with regulations, was supplied.
Sutherland Central Astronomy Advantage Area
The Sutherland Central Astronomy Advantage Area (AAA) is a designated region in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa, established to protect the quality of the night sky for astronomical observations. This area surrounds the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT), one of the largest optical telescopes in the southern hemisphere.
The Sutherland Central AAA spans an annulus with an inner radius of 3 km and an outer radius of 75 km, centred on the SALT dome. The primary goal of this designation is to minimise light pollution and other environmental factors that could interfere with astronomical research and observations.
The below requirements for an outdoor lighting installation need to be met:
- LEDs must be narrow-band amber (NBA);
- Full light cut-off; and
- DIMM profile of 30%.
BEKA Schréder was able to meet the above lighting requirements with the SOLARFLOOD.
About the SOLARFLOOD
BEKA Schréder’s solar lighting highmast solution for outdoor open areas and rural applications provides a high-performing, robust option for off-grid solar lighting requirements.
The SOLARFLOOD provides a reliable lighting solution with a high Ingress Protection level (IP 66) that withstands high ambient temperatures. The SOLARFLOOD is a sustainable off-grid performer with a superior Lumen/ Watt ratio. The high-performing optics allow for mounting of up to 20 m, providing high-quality light where it is needed.
The photovoltaic energy conversion is optimised by highly efficient Monocrystalline solar module technology. This, in conjunction with our Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) charging system and our lithium energy storage technology, provides a state-of-the-art quality system, offering the required system autonomy and providing a long-lasting solution to operate in harsh environmental conditions.
Further advantages include:
- Designed and manufactured in South Africa;
- Specifically engineered for various geographical locations in Africa;
- It has sufficient autonomy to cater for up to two continuous overcast or rainy days, to continue its reliable night operation at an average 11-hour period;
- Long-life lithium (LifePO4) energy storage technology, offering up to eight years’ battery lifetime;
- Designed to withstand wind speeds of up to 144 km/h and highly corrosion resistant;
- Uses latest photometric light distributions and highest efficient LED technology to provide maximum light levels and spacing between masts; and
- Has a warranty of up to five years (terms and conditions apply).
Locally manufactured
BEKA Schréder develops and manufactures a wide range of energy-efficient LED lighting products in South Africa – designed and suitable for local conditions.
In association with the Department of Roads and Public Works Northern Cape, the Department of Health Northern Cape, and MVD Kalahari Consulting Civil and Structural Engineers Kimberley, BEKA Schréder provided a successful LED solar lighting solution for this project.