32
Project
All images supplied by LG Electronics South Africa
LG ’ S MULTI V5 : POWERING SOUTH AFRICA ’ S FIRST FULLY SOLAR HVAC SOLUTION
Supplied by LG Electronics South Africa
Slight movements make big waves . This is precisely the case with the HVAC system project for I and S Motors ’ Workshops and Warehouse .
32
Located in De Deur , within the Midvaal Municipality of the Vaal Triangle , this facility is a good example of sustainable building practices in a country grappling with persistent power challenges .
The facility called for a high-efficiency HVAC solution for energy conservation , flexibility for convenient installation , and comprehensive system control — all while operating entirely off-grid .
THE CHALLENGE : POWERING HVAC IN AN OFF- GRID ENVIRONMENT The De Deur project presented a unique set of challenges that pushed the boundaries of conventional HVAC solutions . With no access to the municipal power grid , the remote location demanded an innovative approach . Faced with the choice between setting up a new substation or implementing a full solar solution , the team opted for the latter , necessitating a creative approach to the HVAC system .
Ian Goslett , the project manager from City Construction Service , explained the core challenge : “ With a building of this
RACA Journal I January 2025 size , we knew that the HVAC system would be the biggest consumer of energy . While Eskom could provide power to the area , their costs were prohibitively high . Coupled with the frequent loadshedding at the time , we made a strategic decision . Instead of connecting to the grid , we chose to allocate our funds towards a comprehensive solar system . This allowed us to move entirely off-grid , not just for electricity , but for all services including water supply .”
Louis van Wyk , the HVAC contractor from Professional Aircon Specialists , explained the complexities they had to consider : “ There were several factors for the design of the HVAC systems : energy efficiency , capacity control capabilities , and the viability of the system to be the most efficient solution .”
The team ’ s task was twofold : to power a large-scale HVAC system entirely through solar energy while ensuring consistent performance even during periods of reduced sunlight . This challenge was further complicated by the need for a system that could intelligently adapt its output based on available power — a
www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za