US-based S&C Electric has introduced an innovative power supply system in two primary schools in rural Zambia by combining solar energy with energy storage technology.

The firm has worked on the project in collaboration with Discovery Student Volunteering from Swansea, UK and the Siavonga Nutrition Group from Siavonga, Zambia.

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The technology supplies enough power to the schools to help them to deliver computer science lessons, eliminating the need for mains electricity.

80 Watt solar panels and locally sourced lead acid batteries are being used at the school to power the tiny Raspberry Pi computers, which have been developed by Raspberry Pi Foundation.

"The technology supplies enough power to the schools to help them to deliver computer science lessons, eliminating the need for mains electricity."

The credit card sized computers are plugged into computer monitors or televisions and are attached with standard keyboard and mouse for usage.

S&C Electric Europe managing director Tony Rooney said: "Energy storage has the potential to transform lives by giving people access for the first time to electricity, something most of the world takes for granted.

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"By combining energy storage with renewable technologies like solar, communities can now access power without being connected to the grid."

The Swansea – Siavonga Partnership founder and director Christine Watson said: "The support received from S&C Electric for the solar project within Swansea Siavonga Partnership has been of real benefit to the rural community Siavonga.

"Adding value and sustainable development to the work of the Partnership has a wide and substantial impact on this impoverished area, which we really appreciate."