May 20, 2010

The solar panel on top of a student cottage at the Coronation Drive Campus of DWU in Madang	The solar batteries and controlling panel

Divine Word University is investing in solar energy as a proactive solution towards the ongoing power blackouts in Madang town.
It is also part of DWU’s commitment towards the fight against climate change with its “Paperless University” policy coming into effect this year. This has enabled the university to reduce the use of paper and increase the use of computers and the information and communication technology (ICT).
The solar energy is being introduced first at DWU’s Coronation Drive campus (formerly PNG IPA campus) where students from the Faculty of Flexible Learning are accommodated during the two-week residential component of their studies each semester.
The dean of the faculty, Fr Philip Smith said that the solar energy system sourced from China is proving reliable and cost-effective.
“The advantages of solar energy versus diesel generator energy are becoming very obvious.

“Firstly, and foremost, we have no blackouts! The capital cost of the solar system compares very favourably with the purchase price of a generator.
“Secondly, there are no running costs associated with the solar system except the replacement of batteries every five years,” said Fr Smith.
“There are no maintenance costs for the solar system.
He said “importantly, the solar system (except in the manufacture) does not contribute to the pollution of the atmosphere.
“Finally, and this is most important for our residents, there is no noise attached to the solar system and so students are not woken up at all hours by the running of a generator.
“As well as the energy for lighting coming from the Sun we also use solar energy for the hot water systems … everybody likes a warm shower in the morning even in the hottest climate,” said Fr Smith.
He said when the current building program is complete there will be five residential cottages catering for 120 students, a conference room, computer laboratory, dining room and tea room and laundry all powered by solar energy.

Fr Smith said in the final analysis, “DWU is committed to caring for the environment in whatever ways are practicable and possible.”