African Energy Conducts Training in Douala, Cameroun 

Douala, 3 March 06  ---- Twenty four entrepreneurs and technicians successfully completed a three day practical solar training held in Douala this week.  The training was sponsored by African Energy, Xantrex and Morningstar, with local support from the Centre for Appropriate Technologies and CFAO.  Participants, who came from all around the country, learned the basics of solar and power backup systems and installed a photovoltaic (solar) system and inverter.  They represented companies who are involved in renewable energy technologies, or who are interested in entering the industry.  The training emphasized solar solutions for off-grid energy needs and power backup systems for use where grid power is unreliable.

“We find that there is a tremendous demand for knowledge about solar and power backup technologies,” said African Energy Managing Director Lincoln Dahl.  “When we can offer training, the participants always use it to very good effect, and I am sure that will be the case with this training in .  We expect to see market growth.”

At the closing of the training, participants organized a steering committee to create a solar association for .  The initiative is aimed at negotiating a reduction in ’s high duty rate for solar products and at establishing standards for solar products and systems. 

Local organizer Centre for Appropriate Technologies has carried out education campaigns in Northwest Cameroon for several years and senses a growing demand for renewable technologies.  Coordinator Hycinth Tanto explained, “If rural consumers calculate their true energy spending, they find that a solar system is not only a great investment, but it is the easiest and cleanest way to produce the energy they need.”

Xantrex Technology is a Canadian-based company that develops, manufactures and markets advanced power electronic products, including the Trace inverter line. 

Morningstar is the world’s largest manufacturer of solar (PV) controllers, based in Delaware, USA.

African Energy is a wholesale distributor of solar, wind and power backup products exclusively for Africa .  The company is based in Arizona, USA.