Solar powered submersible bore pump with a diesel generator backup

[Miles KellyParticipant]

Hey there, would you be able to tell me anything about if the proposed solar-powered and submersible bore pumps with a backup diesel generator were implemented in Lama Lama, and if it was, was it successful, what were the successes and failures of it, was it high or low cost to implement, who maintains it, is it expensive to maintain.

What could be done differently to make sure the project succeeds, and is it possible to make it cheaper for the community if it is currently seeming costly?

Why did the Bushlight project fail, and how can we improve on areas of our own solution where the project fell short?

If you could answer as many of these questions as possible, that would be extremely appreciated.

[Evelyn TodioKeymaster]

Hi Miles,

At the moment the river water is collected through a diesel pump. I’m not sure of the status of the solar-powered submersible pump unfortunately.

The Rangers at Port Stewart have been living and working there for years and have learnt over time how to maintain/fix issues with the water pump.

During conversations with several community members and Rangers, we were told that they wanted the intake to be installed closer to the middle of the river. However, the intake was installed closer to the edge of the river which is the first to dry up in the dry season. Therefore, I would say community consultation is key before any design implementation and to ensure a project’s success.

The Bushlight system is still completely operational in Upper Camp and the main Ranger Base. At lower camp it is not operating. I imagine the lower elevation of bottom camp as well as being closer to the ocean had a part to play in its discontinuation.

I hope this helps.

Kind regards,
Evelyn

[Author]

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