Our client approached us to design the first 2MW Tri-Generation plant in Africa to ease their dependence on Eskom electricity. This would ensure continued security of supply and support its growth plans. This plant assists MTN in reducing the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the electricity consumption at their headquarters, resulting in a reduction of coal-based electricity generation and its associated environmental consequences.

Tri-generation refers to the simultaneous production of heat, power, and chilled water. A tri-generation plant is more efficient than a co-generation plant, as it takes the “waste heat” and converts it into chilled water that can be used for air conditioning. A tri-generation plant is 50% more efficient than a co-generation plant.

Extensive research was required to rise to the client’s expectations. Our client has registered the plant as a carbon credit project, which would enable the company to sell carbon credits. These credits were used to offset some of the costs associated with the plant. The United Nations Clean Development Mechanism allows emission-reduction projects in developing countries to earn certified emission reduction credits. These credits can be traded and sold and used by industrialized countries to meet a part of their emission reduction targets under the Kyoto Protocol.