Solis 110kW grid-tired inverters powering milk processing plant in Kenya

Scheduled power interruptions, escalating electricity costs are just some of the challenges faced by energy users in Kenya. With the former, the national power utility maintains would enable for network maintenance. Meanwhile, enterprises are running at a loss due to poor grid power disrupting business operations.

 Similarly, Ravine Dairies, a prominent milk processing plant in Kenya's Nakuru County, aimed to enhance operational efficiency while minimizing electricity costs from the Kenya Power & Lighting Company. To achieve this goal, they opted to integrate a grid-tied solar system alongside their existing power infrastructure.

SSK Power Limited (SSK Power), a dedicated renewable energy firm, spearheaded the project from inception to completion, covering design, procurement, and construction phases. Recognizing Solis inverters for their robustness, data integrity, ease of configuration, and high efficiency, SSK Power advised their adoption. Responding to the needs of Ravine Dairies, SSK Power highlights that: "We had researched from the market, and we had interacted with other installers and found out the challenges experienced with the existing grid tied inverters. Among many problems, some include but not least, customer support from the manufacturer, complexity in configurations etc.”

When asked why Solis was the preferred brand, SSK Power said "Solis products meet expectations. In terms of performance, they are user friendly, and availability of customer support.” Notably, Solis provided responsive support during challenges with the Export Power Manager (EPM) Wi-Fi connectivity.

110kW on-grid Solis inverters and the Solis export power manager

Measurable improvements

The installation features four 110kW on-grid Solis inverters and the Solis export power manager, which collectively power a 440kWp hybrid solar plant. This system seamlessly integrates with Kenya Power's grid and a diesel generator, combining advanced features like 100MPPT / MW high power tracking density and 99% maximum efficiency. With a 150% DC/AC ratio, the system delivers stable output and boosts energy yield by 3.5% over the project's lifecycle.

Additionally, the system supports string-level monitoring and intelligent I-V curve diagnosis, enabling precise monitoring of the PV plant and making O&M more digital, efficient, and cost-effective. EPM and Soliscloud enable intelligent management of the PV plant, facilitating more efficient energy planning. With this setup, Ravine Dairies anticipates a significant 38% reduction in electricity expenses, with a projected return on investment within five years. According to the system installer, the Solis inverters have provided "verifiable data accurately," contributing to measurable improvements. 

Impact on the African Solar Industry:

By deploying Solis PV inverters, the project introduces significant operational benefits, including fuel savings and zero export power management, while maintaining environmental sustainability through green energy practices.

The deployment of Solis PV inverters at Ravine Dairies offers considerable operational benefits, including fuel savings and zero export power management, while promoting environmental sustainability through the adoption of green energy practices.

Safety and User-Friendly Features:

• Support for SVG Function – Effectively addresses power factor penalties often associated with commercial and industrial PV projects.
• Built-In PID Recovery – Enhances PV module performance.
• Over-Voltage Load Reduction and Leakage Current Suppression – Reduces system failure rates.
• Class I AC Lightning Protection (Optional) – Provides added safety for PV plants in areas prone to frequent lightning.

This case study underscores the effectiveness and reliability of Solis inverters in powering industrial operations while fostering sustainable energy practices in Africa.