Company
Date Published
Author
Julie Dam
Word count
957
Language
English
Hacker News points
None

Summary

AMMP Technologies is leveraging the Internet of Things (IoT) and Grafana to facilitate electrification in rural Africa by implementing solar mini-grids, as demonstrated in a Tanzanian village that gained electricity access in 2017, significantly enhancing local living standards and economic activities. These solar mini-grids comprise solar panels, power electronics, batteries, and smart meters, enabling efficient power distribution and consumption monitoring. AMMP monitors over 100 such grids across Africa, using data analytics to optimize grid operations and maintenance without the need for frequent in-person interventions, thus overcoming challenges posed by remote locations. The data collected is stored in an Influx database, analyzed with tools like Kapacitor, and visualized using Grafana, which helps in identifying and resolving technical issues remotely, such as voltage drops or cable damages. Additionally, AMMP capitalized on excess solar energy to support a water pumping project in Changombe, further demonstrating how data-driven solutions can enhance resource utilization and improve community infrastructure.