Reducing the museum’s energy consumption and optimizing solar self-consumption
The National Foundation of Museums, established in 2011 by King Mohammed VI, is a Moroccan public entity dedicated to the promotion and preservation of the national museum heritage. Created with the ambition to transform Morocco’s museum landscape, it works on the renovation and modernization of existing museums while developing new cultural institutions. Beyond the restoration and conservation of collections, the Foundation is committed to enhancing the country’s cultural heritage and enriching Morocco’s artistic and cultural scene.
One of the significant achievements of this initiative is the creation of the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, an iconic institution reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to promoting modern and contemporary arts. This museum represents a major project for the Foundation, aimed at providing the public with a space dedicated to contemporary artistic creation while contributing to Morocco’s international reputation in the art world.
As part of the sustainable management of the Mohammed VI Museum, the National Foundation of Museums has adopted an innovative approach. Recognizing the importance of reducing the carbon footprint of cultural institutions and promoting their energy autonomy, it has partnered with the Institute of Research in Solar Energy and New Energies (IRESEN) and Green Power. This collaboration aims not only to reduce the museum’s electricity consumption but also to enhance its energy independence.
“Innovating in the museum’s energy management has proven essential, which is why this collaboration between the National Foundation of Museums, the Mohammed VI Museum, IRESEN, and Green Power is necessary. This partnership aims to equip the museum with a photovoltaic system, thereby reducing not only its energy bill but also enhancing its autonomy,” explains Abdelaziz El Idrissi, Director of the National Foundation of Museums.
This ambitious project incorporates innovative solutions for solar energy production. It combines the installation of photovoltaic panels on the roof, connected to 60KTL Huawei FusionSolar inverters, with a unique configuration of solar paving on the ground. This latter setup, a first on the continent, positions Africa as a pioneer in solar technology.
The choice of Huawei FusionSolar inverters for this project is based on several key factors :
- Proven quality : Their advanced design and high-quality materials ensure consistent performance and long lifespan, minimizing the risk of failures and maximizing system efficiency.
- Low maintenance costs : The inverters require minimal maintenance, reducing long-term maintenance costs and optimizing the return on investment and economic management of the solar installation.
- High performance : They offer some of the best yields in the market, optimizing energy production.
- Robustness : Designed to withstand severe weather conditions, these inverters provide great durability and reliability, even in demanding environments.
- Technological innovation : Huawei integrates advanced features like remote monitoring and real-time analysis, maximizing system efficiency and quickly detecting potential issues.
A customized support throughout the project
At Green Power, personalized support for partners throughout their projects is a top priority. From the outset of this initiative, the National Foundation of Museums, the Mohammed VI Museum, and IRESEN have benefited from close support to fully understand the proposed solutions and services.
As Sales Head Africa at Green Power, highlights: “True to its DNA, Green Power is committed to ensuring the satisfaction and support of its partners, notably through several training sessions on our solutions and after-sales services. We also ensure that our partners are always the first to benefit from the latest technological innovations available on the market, and this project is no exception.”
Up to 40% of the museum’s energy needs are now stored
The implementation of this innovative energy solution reflects the National Foundation of Museums’ commitment to sustainability and efficiency, while demonstrating how cultural institutions can adopt responsible and forward-thinking practices.
Thus, the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art not only serves as a showcase for modern and contemporary art but also positions itself as a model of sustainable and environmentally respectful management. Thanks to this photovoltaic installation, the museum has become Africa’s first ecological museum, being the only one on the continent fully powered by solar energy.
“The museum has been equipped with batteries allowing it to store between 30 and 40% of its energy needs. This collaboration is not limited to the Mohammed VI Museum but will be adapted and adopted by other museums,” states Abdelaziz El Idrissi, Director of the National Foundation of Museums.