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ID: 121058
Added: 2008-02-26 11:10
Modified: 2008-11-17 12:13
Refreshed: 2010-02-07 21:32

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Solar Powered Backup for Fantsuam's Community Wireless Network (Nigeria)
 
Project Leader: John Dada
 
Institution: Fantsuam Foundation
 
Region: Sub-Saharan Africa | West Africa | Nigeria
 
Start Date: 2007/03
 
Project Details
 
The Context
 
Fantsuam Foundation is currently implementing an innovative low-cost community wireless network in Nigeria with IDRC support (103125). The project aims to create a sustainable cost-effective model for wireless networking by using existing VSAT (very small aperture terminals) satellite connection to bring Intranet and Internet services to 13 rural partners in Kafanchan. Although the Fantsuam Foundation is connected to the power grid, severe power surges and outages jeopardize the success of the project, and the alternative power source (diesel) is prohibitively expensive. This grant will support the deployment of solar power as an alternative source to run the wireless backbone infrastructure, and ensure stability of the core network and associated services. The project will include basic and advanced training sessions on solar-powered systems for Fantsuam Foundation staff. The resulting training materials will be made available publicly on a number of websites.

Project Objectives

To implement a solar power system to support the core wireless network of Fantsuam Foundation. The backup system includes six subsystems in Fantsuam Foundation compound: cybercafe, cashier, administration, 2 computer rooms and a repair room.

To implement a solar power system based on deep cycle batteries connected to power grid in the Network Operation Center (NOC) and improve the availability of the wireless backbone network;

To improve the availability of Intranet and Internet core services to Fantsuam and identified partners within the community;

To implement six independent street lighting poles and including a solar powered 'signal light' in the wireless communication tower and thereby improve the physical security in the premises;

To implement a solar panel subsystem to extend the autonomy of the NOC;

To expand the network to include at least 5 additional partners by means of establishing two solar- powered repeaters;

To build capacity within Fantsuam Foundation in designing, implementing and maintaining electricity backup systems with solar panels and deep cycle batteries;

To conduct basic training in renewable energies;

To conduct advanced training in the dimensioning and simulation of solar-powered autonomous and backup systems;

To develop manuals and training material for use in the project and disseminated more broadly.

To deploy a set of backhaul communication links and clients installations using electricity backup systems jointly with Fantsuam Foundation staff.




 Document(s)

Progress Report John Dada 2007-05
Open file

 Project(s)

Solar Powered Backup for Fantsuam's Community Wireless Network



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