Martin Endjala
In an ongoing quest for sustainable energy solutions, Fothermo Photovoltaic (PV) water boilers (also referred to as PV boilers) have emerged as a beacon of innovation and environmental responsibility.
This is the opinion of a Mechanical Engineer and a Renewable Energy Consultant at FurnTech Agency, a consumer electronics distribution company based in Windhoek that specialises in photovoltaic systems in Windhoek, Lilongeni Unoovene.
He said the PV boilers offer a myriad of benefits that not only address the pressing need for clean energy but also revolutionise the way people think about residential PV solar water heating solutions.
From reducing carbon emissions to maximising efficiency, Fothermo PV boilers are said to represent a significant step forward in the transition toward a greener future.
In terms of affordability, maintenance, and energy savings. Fothermo Energy (Pty) Ltd aims to help people live a sustainable and dignified life through PV solar energy, saving approximately 40-50 percent on monthly electricity bills with solar electric boilers, and improving the livelihoods of residents in all communities.
Fothermo Energy is a German-developed PV solar boiler and small PV solar home system technology that aims to bridge the energy divide by providing sustainable, equitable, affordable, and innovative solutions.
However, the Boilers can be attained from Furntech Agencies who are the associated distributors of the products.
These PV solar boilers are fully off-grid and electricity is generated by daylight and only sunlight energy is required, by harnessing the power of a renewable energy source, primarily sunlight, to generate electricity that heats the water.
Unlike traditional geysers that rely on fossil fuels such as the Donkey boiler which uses firewood charcoal, However, Fothermo PV boilers operate without producing harmful emissions, making them a sustainable option that significantly reduces the carbon footprints.
“This efficiency not only translates to cost savings for consumers but also conserves natural resources and reduces overall energy consumption. One can order a self-heating power cable for wall sockets or battery cables for a 12v 100-amp battery,” said Unoovene.
Hence switching to solar-powered heating systems like Fothermo PV boilers can result in a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, thus contributing to global efforts to combat environmental degradation.
While the initial investment in Fothermo PV boilers may seem substantial, the long-term cost savings they offer are undeniable, by harnessing free and abundant solar energy, Unoovene says users can significantly reduce their reliance on expensive or environmentally degrading fossil fuels for heating.
Moreover, he explains that various funding institutions for renewable energy can further offset the upfront costs, making Fothermo PV boilers an economically viable choice for both homeowners and businesses.
“Finance institutions mandated to engage in renewable energy are, Kongalend, Post-Fin, and Ministry of Mines and Energy through the Solar Revolving Fund, to name but a few. Assuming your monthly electricity consumption bill is N$1,000, you will pay off the fully installed boiler in 48 months, or even sooner if you factor in annual electricity price increases, and you will then enjoy free hot water,” he explained.
Additionally, he said Fothermo PV boilers are highly adaptable and capable of catering to various heating needs and environments.
He believes that as they prioritise environmental stewardship and energy efficiency, embracing innovations like Fothermo PV boilers becomes imperative in shaping a more sustainable and resilient future.
