Green light for solar system to protect pandas in China

Two solar electronic projects to protect the giant panda and the Mekong elephant have been agreed by Fronius International and the WWF Climate Group. Through its involvement in the projects, Fronius is making a significant contribution to protect these endangered species in China and Laos. The WWF Climate Group is a platform for companies like Fronius who are aware of their environmental responsibilities.

The giant panda needs 35 kg of bamboo each day just to still its hunger. Deforestation forces pandas out of their natural habitat and has reduced their numbers to just 1600. The WWF has established nature reserves to protect the animals. Fronius International supported the project with a photovoltaic system (PV system) to ensure a regular power supply. Solar energy is being used to power weather stations, night-vision cameras to observe the nocturnal animals and pathway lighting.          

The Mekong elephant in Laos (south-east Asia) is facing a similar threat. Its numbers have halved over the past few years. The WWF is highly committed to their survival and has expanded its headquarters in Laos. Fronius International has also played its part here by supplying a PV system, which covers the internal power requirements of the 50 staff (computers and air conditioning).          

"These two projects demonstrate how advanced the technical features of Fronius photovoltaic systems are", explained project managers Hannes Heigl and Roland Prötsch on the successful conclusion to 12 months of hard work.