The Namibia Energy Institute (NEI) showcased its activities, including the Southern African Renewable Heating and Cooling Training and Demonstration Initiative (SOLTRAIN+), at the Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF). The Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF) stands as a prominent national and international trade and exhibition event on the Namibian business calendar, encompassing all sectors of the economy. This event took place from August 25th to September 2nd 2023. Additionally, NEI presented SOLTRAIN+ at a half-day Post-Graduate Open Day event at the High-Tech Transfer Plaza Select (HTTPS) building at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) on September 22, 2023.
Various patrons visited the NEI stand at these two events and the NEI team disseminated information on the SOLTRAIN+ project, the overall achievements of the preceding project phases under the SOLTRAIN project, and the potential financial assistance available in the current phase.
Moreover, an on-screen visual presentation of the SOLTRAIN+ demonstration systems was conducted to raise awareness among all visitors to the stand. Students, including PhDs, Masters, and undergraduate students, visited the NEI stand and were exposed to the possibility of conducting research on the solar water heating system installed at the Katutura State Hospital maternity ward in Namibia, as well as conducting an energy audit at the Namibia Breweries plant in Windhoek.
A few architecture students displayed interest in the solar thermal area, as it is a part of their concept design processes; thus, they were invited to visit the solar water heating system trailer at the NEI's premises to further enhance their understanding of the concept. Solar companies were also encouraged to apply for the co-financing scheme of the SOLTRAIN+ project, and their contact information was collected for invitations to upcoming training events.
