My question for today is: is solar energy the way to go?

In line with the sustainability aims of this project, I have been trying to research this subject for quite a while. However, I am not getting much clarity. Ok, so what I know is that I could use solar panels to a) heat the water b) provide electricity and c) power the water pump for the well. But what I didn’t know was exactly how these products worked, if they were available in Morocco and how much they cost.

Finally, yesterday I had the opportunity to meet with a solar panel supplier in the area. He has installed both solar panels for water heating and solar panels for electricity in several of the large hotels in the area. Furthermore, some of these panels have been operating for over 10 years…sounds promising. So, to get straight to the bottom line…What did he quote?

Solar panel and pump for well: 1,700 euros

2 x 300 litre water tanks + 4 solar panels: 3,200 euros

6 x solar panels for electricity (plus batteries, etc): 6,800 euros

As this is my first quote I have no idea if its good or bad, although given the technicality of the products involved it doesn’t sound ridiculous. This prices include maintenance and guarantees. The obvious benefits of this guy are that he has experience working in the local area. And, the fact that some of the biggest hotels in the area have trusted him to provide them with all there water and electricity supply impresses me. In fact, it surprised me. I had no idea that these organisations were using renewable energy, and have been doing so for many years. Here was me thinking that I would be introducing some new, amazing technology to the country, when in fact they have been using it for years…how naïve!

But, which ever way I go about it, an investment of this kind is massive and I need to be 100% confident that it is the best option out there. So, what I need to know now is how well do these products work? Are they reliable? How much maintenance to they need?

So, this is a call for anyone with any experience of solar power to give me some advice. What are the common drawbacks? What are the biggest considerations? Is it a worthwhile investment? How do you choose a supplier?

Furthermore, I would also love to hear from any suppliers who may be able to meet my needs.

On a last note, this man also mentioned installing a wind turbine (4,500 euros) instead of the solar panels for electricity. However, there are doubts about whether there is sufficient wind power available. I think, that as the land is situated on a hill overlooking the ocean, there should be a fairly constant breeze, but others are doubtful. How much wind do you really need? Is it a reliable option?

Today, I plan to do some “field research”. Heading up on to a friend’s roof terrace we will try and identify which houses in the area are already using solar power, and then we will go and knock on their doors and ask them how they are finding it, as well as visiting the hotels which also use solar power.

Thanks in advance for all you support and advice!

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