Since 2014, Natfort Energy’s primary focus has been on providing off-grid and grid-tied solar installations for residential and small business customers. Initially, they placed a strong emphasis on continuous learning and gaining experience in the solar industry, quickly establishing themselves as a trusted provider of solar solutions.
Early growth:
As the company expanded in expertise and capabilities, it became recognised as one of the leaders for larger-scale commercial and industrial (C&I) solar installations in Zimbabwe. This transition to C&I projects showcased its ability to handle complex and expansive solar energy systems, tailored to the specific needs of commercial and industrial clients.
“Through our commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, we solidified our position as a go-to company for businesses seeking reliable and efficient solar energy solutions. Our successful track record in delivering C&I installations further established our reputation as a trusted and reliable partner in Zimbabwe’s solar energy sector,” said Natfort Energy CEO Kudzanai Chitiva.
Their history of growth and specialisation reflects their dedication to evolving with the solar industry and meeting the changing demands of customers. Their journey from residential and small business installations to larger-scale C&I projects exemplifies their commitment to providing effective and scalable solar solutions across various sectors in Zimbabwe.
Chitiva has observed that over the past nine years, Zimbabwe’s renewable energy landscape has witnessed significant changes. During that time, the adoption of solar power has increased across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, driven by declining costs and improved financing options.
“The government has introduced supportive policies and regulations, fostering a favourable environment for renewable energy development. Commercial and industrial projects have scaled up, leading to substantial solar installations in various industries. Efforts to improve off-grid and rural electrification have expanded access to electricity in under-served areas. Technological advancements, such as improved solar panel efficiency and energy storage solutions, have enhanced the performance and cost-effectiveness of renewable energy systems,” said the CEO.
“There is also a growing awareness and consciousness about the environmental impact of traditional energy sources, driving the demand for sustainable alternatives. Overall, these changes signify a positive transformation towards a more vibrant and sustainable renewable energy sector in Zimbabwe.”.
Services:
Natfort Energy differentiates itself from other solar energy providers in Zimbabwe through its extensive experience and expertise, particularly in commercial and industrial projects. The company offers comprehensive solutions and services, prioritising quality and reliability. It takes a customer-centric approach, focusing on personalised recommendations and transparent communication. They are committed to sustainability and innovation, staying at the forefront of technological advancements in the industry. A strong track record, expertise, and customer-focused approach set them apart as a trusted and reliable solar energy provider in Zimbabwe.
On offer by the company are EPCM (engineering, procurement, construction, and management) services. Engineering involves the assessment of the client’s energy needs, site conditions, and project requirements by skilled in-house engineers. The engineers design and engineer a customised solar energy system that optimally meets the client’s objectives. This stage ensures that the solar solution is tailored to the specific requirements of the client, maximizing energy production and efficiency. The procurement stage involves the procurement of all necessary equipment and components for the solar installation. While the construction stage involves the actual installation and construction of the solar energy system on-site, The last stage is management, involving ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and performance optimisation of the installed solar energy system.
Natfort Energy caters to the specific needs of the commercial and residential sectors by tailoring its solar projects to address the unique requirements of each sector. Here’s how they cater to the specific needs of both sectors:
Services like load analysis, scalability, financial analysis, net metering, and grid integration are offered for the commercial sector. The residential sector features services such as energy needs assessment, aesthetic considerations, financing options, energy efficiency, and recommendations.
For those customers who may not be able to pay upfront for a solar system, financing options are offered. The company understands that the initial cost of installing a solar system can be a significant barrier for some customers, and financing options help make solar energy more accessible and affordable.
Comprehensive after-sales support and maintenance services are offered to ensure the long-term performance and reliability of the installed solar systems. The company provides ongoing monitoring, regular maintenance, and performance optimisation to maximise energy production. In the event of failures or malfunctions, they offer repair and replacement services using high-quality components. Also offered are system upgrades to incorporate the latest advancements in solar technology. A dedicated customer support team is available to assist with inquiries and technical issues, ensuring prompt and effective communication. Overall, Natfort Energy’s after-sales support and maintenance services prioritise customer satisfaction and the continued success of the solar installations.
Milestones:
One of their success stories is the increased productivity of farmers using solar water pumps. The implementation of solar water pumps in rural communities has had a positive impact, especially for farmers. The benefits include increased productivity through reliable water supply for irrigation, cost savings by eliminating the need for fuel or electricity, and environmental sustainability through the use of renewable energy. These solutions have helped rural communities enhance agricultural productivity, improve financial viability, and contribute to a more sustainable farming practice.
A significant number of solar installations have been completed by Natfort Energy in Zimbabwe. They have served over 8,000 PAYGO (pay-as-You-Go) clients and have provided solar solutions to more than 400 EPC (engineering, procurement, and construction) clients. These installations have likely had a positive impact on the environment by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting the use of clean, renewable energy sources.
Some of the exciting new technologies and trends emerging in the Zimbabwean solar energy market have been introduced by the company. These include advanced energy storage solutions like mini-grid systems that are gaining traction for providing electricity access to rural areas, while pay-as-you-go solar solutions are making clean energy more affordable and accessible. The integration of solar energy into smart grids enables optimised grid stability and demand response. Furthermore, energy management and monitoring systems are becoming more prevalent, allowing for real-time monitoring and optimisation of solar energy systems.
The future:
“To stay ahead in the future, Natfort Energy will embrace continuous learning and keep up with industry trends. We are also focused on fostering innovation, exploring emerging technologies, and prioritizing a customer-centric approach. Collaboration and partnerships with strategic stakeholders will also provide us with valuable resources and insights. We believe that by following these strategies, businesses can prepare themselves for the future and maintain a competitive edge,” said Chitiva.
The company plans to expand its services beyond Zimbabwe as it recognises the potential for exploring opportunities in other markets. The goal is to leverage the expertise and experience gained in the Zimbabwean market to bring reliable and sustainable solar solutions to other countries. Various factors, including market conditions, regulatory frameworks, and resource availability, would determine the implementation of the plans.
Challenges:
Chitiva said that some of the biggest challenges customers face when considering switching to solar energy include the upfront cost of installation, securing financing, determining the right system size and design, a lack of technical expertise, and addressing maintenance and warranty concerns.
To address concerns and educate potential customers about solar energy benefits, the company provides comprehensive informational resources, offers personalised consultations and site assessments, and guides customers on financing options and cost savings. They also partner with financing institutions for accessible financing, conduct training sessions and workshops for technical knowledge, and share case studies and success stories to build confidence.
Natfort Energy is passionate about promoting the adoption of solar energy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, minimise environmental impact, and foster energy independence. With their expertise and experience, they are determined to contribute to Zimbabwe’s transition towards a greener and more sustainable energy future.
Text by Martin Chemhere