MaxLite will install two of its locally designed and manufactured solar water heaters at the 2011 South African Climate Change Response Expo to assist organisers reduce the environmental impact of hosting COP17 in KwaZulu-Natal.
The two solar water heating systems, branded as WaterLite, have been erected in full view of visitors and are surrounded by four South African flags and will supply hot water to the kitchen servicing the networking and entertainment areas at the Expo.
The WaterLite systems were designed and manufactured by MaxLite to specifically meet the demands of the African continent. For example, the gravity outlet deployed in the system has a 10-year guarantee but in reality lasts far longer than many imported systems because of its anti-corrosion technology.
According to MaxLite director, Trevor van der Vyver, his company leapt to accept the open invitation issued by Scan Display, the company co-ordinating the logistics around the Expo, to exhibitors to assist the ‘green’ the event.
The company is exhibiting at the Expo but regards partnering with Scan Display as both its civic duty and a business opportunity. Sponsoring the Expo’s kitchens in this manner is a double win for WaterLite, Van der Vyver said, in that it gives WaterLite the opportunity to profile its products in action while living up to its renewable and sustainable credo.
WaterLite products can be found at Stand 90, alongside the Department of Energy. Here MaxLite will display several solar solutions including a gravity-outlet 110 litre plastic solar water heater targeted at the low end of the market because of its low cost and no pressure technology; a high pressure 200 litre stainless steel solar water heater; a photovoltaic (solar electric) solar charge controller in a battery box and a photovoltaic fee-for-service charge controller in a battery box.
Gauteng MEC responsible for economic development, Quedani Mahlangu, recently praised WaterLite for developing these products saying that they not only offer lower income earners access to hot water, they create jobs. Aside from installations in South Africa, the company is exporting the systems to Angola, Mozambique and Botswana.
Hosted by the Government of South Africa and taking place the International Convention Centre (ICC) and Durban Exhibition Centre (DEC) between November 28 and December 9, COP17 puts the spotlight on sustainability and is a major opportunity for South Africa to embrace ideals of the Convention. Further information can be found on http://www.cop17-cmp7Durban.com.
