Government of Tuvalu

Recipient Organisation Ministry of Public Utilities and Infrastructure through the Tuvalu Electricity Corporation (TEC)

Project Name

Solar Home Standalone (SHS) Systems and PV Cooling Storage Facility for NIULAKITA/FUNAFALA

funded by

Italian Government – PSIDS Corporation Programme

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.INTRODUCTION ...... 4 2. GENERAL ...... 6 2.1 Overview ...... 6 2.2 Purpose of the Document ...... 6 2.3 Equipment, Quality and Specification ...... 6 2.4 Scope of Work ...... 6 3. PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... 6 3.1 General Setting...... 7 3.2 Lighting System ...... 7 3.3 Management of the System ...... 8 3.4 Solar Resources ...... 8 4. PROPOSE SITE ...... 8 4.1 Solar Home Standalone (SHS) System ...... 8 4.2 PV Cooling Storage Facility ...... 9 5. SYSTEM DESIGN ...... 9 5.1 Solar Home Standalone (SHS) System Schematic Diagram ...... 9 5.2 PV Cooling Storage Facility Schematic Diagram ...... 9 5.3 Technical Specification for Solar Home Standalone (SHS) System ...... 10 5.4 Technical Specification for PV Cooling Storage Facility ...... 10 6. ACCESS AND LOGISTICS ...... 10 6.1 Site Characteristics ...... 10 6.2 Generator ...... 11 6.3 Equipment and Labor ...... 11 6.4 Reef Passage and Storage Space ...... 12 6.5 Accommodation and Living Arrangement ...... 12 6.6 Grocery Shop ...... 13 6.7 Entertainment ...... 13 6.8 Telecommunication ...... 13 7. SPECIFICATION FOR TYPE 2 SOLAR HOME STANDALONE (SHS) SYSTEM ...... 14 7.1 Solar Home Standalone (SHS) System Hardware Description ...... 14 7.2 Certification Requirements ...... 14 7.3 Inverters ...... 14 7.4 Recommended Best Practices ...... 15 7.5 Pure Sine Wave Inverter ...... 15 7.6 Batteries for Accessible System ...... 16 7.7 Enclosure or Box...... 18

7.8 Wiring ...... 18 7.9 Lights and Socket Outlets ...... 18 8. SPECIFICATION FOR PV COOLING STORAGE FACILITY ...... 19 8.1 PV Cooling Storage Facility Hardware Description ...... 19 8.2 PV Module Installation ...... 19 8.3 Pure Sine Wave Inverter ...... 20 8.4 Batteries for Accessible Systems ...... 21 8.5 Batteries for Rural Maritime Area ...... 21 8.6 Enclosure or Box...... 22 8.7 Wiring ...... 22 9. TOOLS AND SPARE PARTS ...... 23 9.1 Tools ...... 23 9.2 Spare Parts ...... 23 10. NO OF HOUSEHOLD ...... 23 10.1 Niulakita ...... 23 10.2 Funafala ...... 24

1. INSTRUCTION TO BIDDERS Supply, Installation and Commissioning of Solar Home Standalone (SHS) Systems and PV Cooling Storage Facility for NIULAKITA/FUNAFALA 1.1 The Government of Tuvalu has proposed the installation of Solar Home Standalone (SHS) Systems and PV Cooling Storage Facility for the islands of Niulakita and Funafala. The project has been made possible through funding provided by the Italian Government through an agreement signed between the Government of Italy represented by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Environment, Lands and Sea and the Pacific SIDS Permanent Missions based at the United Nations in New York. The Tuvalu Electricity Corporation is implementing the project and also the Contracting Authority is requesting bids from qualified bidders to supply, install and commission the Solar Home Standalone (SHS) system and the PV Cooling Storage Facilities for Niulakita and Funafala Islands. 1.2 Bids are requested from parties that are willing and able to undertake the services as specified in the detailed Technical Specifications as detailed below. Bidders shall be bound by their bids for a period of 90 days from the deadline for the submission of bids. 1.3 Instructions to Bidders: a. The bid must cover all cost for equipment, tools, spare parts, freight, freight insurance, installation labour, and training of local staff, training materials, manuals, travel cost, per diem, supervision, testing commissioning and warrantees related to the system. c. AUD$ only must be used in the bid. A detailed breakdown of all cost components must be provided with the bid. d. The bid must be in the English language only. This includes all supporting documents, technical specifications and drawings. f. The bid must include the following components which will form part of the supply contract between the bidder and the contracting authority: 1. Demonstrate your firm’s financial capacity to meet the requirements for the execution of the project. Provide information on annual turnover of your organisation during the last five years. 2. Provide information on the status of your firm (copies of registration certificates, legal status, country of registration) 3. Certify (as an original certification) that your firm is not in a state of bankruptcy or receivership. 4. Describe your capability and experience, including your core business. 5. Demonstrate your firms experience with projects of similar nature. List relevant reference projects implemented over the last five years. 6. Provide three client references which can be verified by the contractor. 7. Provide an updated CV of your field engineer who will be responsible for the installation supervision, training and commissioning. 8. Engineering calculations verifying the system output calculations provided in the technical specifications. The engineering calculations as a minimum will have to include: average solar array output in kWh per kWpeak installed for anticipated radiation levels (per year and per lowest month). Battery charge current under charge by PV. System losses (line losses, controller losses, inverter losses, battery losses. The bidders calculations will be part of the contract and will be used as a basis for verifying system performance. Wind loading calculation must also be provided. 9. Detailed engineering drawings for proposed mounting of panels and battery installation and circuit diagrams for proposed configuration. 10. A proposed time schedule for the implementation of project. The time schedule should include all steps necessary for the implementation of the project, in particular: manufacturing/supply of equipment, shipping, checking, preparation of installation, installation, training of local operators, commissioning.

11. Detailed technical specifications of all system components proposed in the bid. The required information are listed under the respective components as detailed below. Copies of compliance certificates must be provided. 12. Training plan and methodology for participation and training of local staff. 13. Detailed price break-down for all components and services. g. The above-mentioned documents, information and requirements are mandatory and as such are required to form a complete bid. A bid will be rejected unless all information are included and the bid it is substantially responsive. h. If a bid is received prior to the formal submission date corrections/modifications can be made up to that date. i. The bid must be submitted by email to the address specified in below. j. A final work/project schedule will be determined subsequently between the successful Contractor and TEC. k. Confirmation of receipt of quotations will be provided by e-mail within three working days. l. Successful as well as unsuccessful bidders will be informed by e-mail as soon as possible. m. Award of contract and Evaluation criteria. Bids will be evaluated by a tender committee. Only bids that are technically compliant will be fully evaluated. Compliant bids will be evaluated according to the following criteria: 1. Technical design and quality of system components offered 30% 2. Experience of firm in Standalone Home Solar (SHS) System and PV Cooling Storage Facility and relevant regional experience in Pacific Island countries 20 % 3. CV of field engineer 15 % 4. Quality of training, training material and approach to training 15% 5. Price (20 %) n. Deadline for the submission of quotations is Friday, 30th September 2016, 16.00 hours Tuvalu Time (GMT+12). Clarifications are permissible until Friday 07th October 2016. o. Payments under the contract shall be made upon presentation of a bank guarantee covering the advances requested. The proposed payment schedule for the contract is as follows:  20 % upon signature of supply contract  20 % upon arrival of shipment in Funafuti  40 % upon installation, testing and preliminary commissioning of equipment  10 % upon final commissioning and performance verification (12 months after preliminary commissioning) p. Contact Information:

Mafalu Lotolua, General Manager Tuvalu Electricity Corporation Funafuti, Tuvalu

E-mail : [email protected] Office Phone : (688) 20352 Mobil – 700 3654

2. GENERAL 2.1 OVERVIEW The Government of Tuvalu is placing a high priority to promotion of renewable energy as a means of cushioning its economy from increasing volatility in the international fuel markets. In 2009, the Government set a target of 100% renewable energy by 2025. Actions aimed at reducing dependency on imported fossil fuel will also help decrease greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and put Tuvalu on the road of a sustainable and exemplary development, giving the nation a stronger bargaining position in international negotiations. TEC already operates 1,270kW of PV with storage at the outer-islands and 756kW grid connected PV system in Funafuti. The positive experiences to date encouraged the Government and TEC to pursue solar projects for the remaining islands of Tuvalu to increase the electricity access rate from 98% to 100%.

The overall aim of the proposal is to improve the well-being of the residents living in these outer islands by promoting the use of renewable energy resources through the implementation of cost effective, equitable, reliable, accessible, affordable, secure and environmentally sustainable energy systems. This is by providing them with quality lighting at night and a community cooling storage facility to drive small scale economic activities, like preserving the freshness of fish and other food items that resident can sell their product to the main market on Funafuti, the capital of Tuvalu. 2.2 PURPOSE OF DOCUMENT The Technical Specifications document defines the technical conditions for the supplying, installation and training related to the full implementation of the solar system in the two islands of Tuvalu. The performance of the tendered contract includes all the installation work related to the photovoltaic generators as well as all annex works and accessories required for the systems. The Contractor must fulfil laws, regulatory and technical documentation, national by-laws and decrees, in effect in Tuvalu at the date of the submission of the tender. All work must be accomplished using methodology internationally accepted for solar photovoltaic technology installations of the type being installed under this tender. By submitting the present bid dossier and signing the contract, the bidder accepts responsibility for the design, supply, installation and commissioning of the complete systems. If necessary, the bidder can provide any suggestions or comments on the project design prior to its endorsement. 2.3 EQUIPMENT, QUALITY AND SPECIFICATIONS All equipment, components, and various accessories used for the installation must be new and of high quality manufacture and resistant to salt laden wind. During contract implementation, the Contractor is not allowed to change any material that has been included in the tender without the formal written authorization of the Contracting Authority. Any brands and types of material that are mentioned in the present tender document are only included as an example of what could be used and is intended only to guide the bidders. All types of materials that have similar characteristics and qualities can be proposed by the Contractor, as long as they fulfil the technical requirements laid out in this Technical Specification document. Costs associated with supplying and installing of all equipment will be the responsibility of the successful bidder. Shipping costs shall include all handling, packing, marking, loading, freight, insurance, transit, unloading, local transport, unpacking and checking costs in connection with the supplies shipped to Niulakita/Funafala island project site in Tuvalu. All the shipping and handling costs from origin to the sites shall be included in the rates and prices offered in response to this tender. The Tuvalu Electricity Corporation can assist the successful bidders with customs clearance. 2.4 SCOPE OF WORK In this tender, equipment is requested for the implementation of SHS and PV Cooling Storage Facility for the two Islands, Niulakita/Funafala. The equipment must be supplied, installed and commissioned by the Contractor. In addition to supply, installation supervision and commissioning, the Contractor will provide training session(s) to the local technicians and operators in charge of operation & maintenance (O&M) of the systems. The training will be based on an O&M manual to be supplied by the contractor. The price for training shall be included in the financial bid. It will be essential that the systems’ limitations (operating hours, battery discharge, number of appliances operated simultaneously, response to extended periods of cloudy weather etc) will be explained in detail together with the maintenance requirements for the unit. The bidders are requested to provide a training methodology together with their bids.

3. PROJECT DESCRIPTION

3.1 GENERAL SETTING

 NIULAKITA Niulakita is the southernmost reef island of Tuvalu and was inhabited until 1949 when it was settled with emigrant from Niutao, which was considered to be overpopulated. It is administered through the local government of Niutao (comprising of the Falekaupule and Kaupule). The two islands (Niulakita and Niutao) are geographically separated by some 644km of ocean in the Tuvalu group. The only means of travelling between them is by sea transport. The recent installation of internet and telephone services on the two islands has greatly improved communication links between them. In terms of land area, Niutao island is 3sq.km and Niulakita island is about 0.5sq.km.

The island is approximately 136km from Funafuti. The government ferry service to the island is occasionally, making it difficult for diesel fuel to ship to the islands. There are only 14 households, a church building, classrooms, health clinic, community hall and copra shed. There are approximately 30 residents including children living on the island. The island had a community leader who looks after the welfare of all the residents living on the island and also had a Church Minister assisting the resident spiritually. There are only 13 school children attending Primary School with 1 qualified teacher and 2 supporting teachers.

In the 90’s the Tuvalu Telecommunication Corporation (TTC) installed a communication satellite system powered by solar PV’s. After years of operation, the system was out of service for some reasons and the TTC ceased its operation on the island. At present the resident uses a v-sat powered by a car battery and being charged by 2xsolar modules. According to the officer who is looking after the system, at most time they could not communicate to Funafuti, the seat of Government because either the battery has failed or did not have sufficient charging capacity from the PV modules. It is propose that the project to provide a system to power the v-sat to provide the island communities with a better communication system.

There is a Metrological (MET) Officer on the island which his priority task is to update the Metrological Office in Funafuti with the weather forecast on the island. The MET station do have a VHF radio communication which also powered by a car battery. The battery is charged by PV modules. When the island is covered with clouds for most of the day, the officer will not be able to report the weather forecast to Funafuti because the battery does not have sufficient capacity to power the VHF radio.

 FUNAFALA Funafala is an islet of Funafuti and situated at a one hour boat from Funafuti Island with only 20 residents. This beautiful island is ideal for a day trip or weekend excursion and provides an authentic tropical experience for those who don't have time to visit the outer islands. There is a tidal sand beach at the village. The more traditional village lifestyle in this remote paradise gives a taste of what the outer islands are like. The islet had a headman who is looking after the walfare of the resident.

In 1984 all the islands of Tuvalu, including these two inhabited islands propose in this project were electrified by Solar Home System (SHS), providing only lighting and the project was managed by the Tuvalu Solar Electricity Corporation Society (TSEC). After years of operations, the TSEC was renationalized by the government decision at that time.

The TTC used to provide the service of telecommunication on the island and after some years of operation TTC decided to close its operation on the islet for some reasons. This made it difficult for the resident to communicate to the main island. The islet is also served as a holiday destination for Funafuti people residing on the main island.

3.2 LIGHTING SYSTEM

In 1984 all the islands of Tuvalu, including these two inhabited islands propose in this project were electrified by Solar Home Standalone (SHS) System, providing only lighting. Members will pay a fee of $7/month. The project was managed by the Tuvalu Solar Electricity Cooperative Society (TSECS).

After the renationalization of the TSEC in 2005, residents on these two islands left with no other option but to look for some means to provide them with lighting at night. They revert back to using kerosene and 12volts car battery. In October 1999, the Government decided to electrify all the outer islands of

Tuvalu with diesel powered generators, exclusive of these two islands of Niulakita and Funafala. They have been without proper lighting for some years. So this project would definitely improves the living standards of the residents.

3.3 MANAGEMENT OF THE SYSTEM For the sustainability of the system, TEC will operate and manage the system. The system that will be installed at the two islands are identical to what they have in the Marshall Islands and experiences has shown that the systems has been well managed and maintained by the utility.

The management of the PV Cooling Storage facility yet to be finalized and there are two options available and are as follows:

 OPTION 1 To involve the Kaupule (Island Council) in the operation and management of the facility. Fishman can sell their fish or other food items to the Kaupule and responsible for the transportation to the main island of Funafuti to be sold. During the consultation with the Kaupule, they tend to agree with the proposal but they need further discussion amongst themselves.

 OPTION 2 The head of the community to be responsible for the operation only and the management of the facility is by TEC. This is a much straight forward option and easy to implement.

 TARIFF SHS The tariff is to be set at $10/month per system. The collection should be set aside to enable TEC to replace any equipment when failed.

COOLING STORAGE FACILITY The facility will be fitted with a kWhr meter to ensure the consumption of the chest freezer is properly recorded. Each month the readings will be taken and calculated the amount to be paid. The amount is to be shared amongst the resident who have used the freezer during the month. The tariff is set at 0.56cent/kWhr, to align with the commercial charges presently imposed on Funafuti.

3.4 SOLAR RESOURCE

Monthly average values of the global solar insolation on a horizontal surface is given in the Table 21. The annual average insolation is good at 5.14 kWh/m2/day.

Solar Insolation for Tuvalu Data

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Avg Solar 5.06 4.98 5.19 5.14 4.75 4.57 4.58 5.20 5.85 5.80 5.52 5.09 5.14 Insolation Source: NASA (2000) and World Climate (2000)

4 PROPOSE SITE 4.1 SOLAR HOME STANDALONE (SHS) SYSTEM

Solar Panels are mounted on wooden pole and installed near to the household. To ensure that the panels are cleared from any shading which may affect the performance of the panels. The batteries will be inside the battery box mounted to the wooden pole or other appropriate location suggested by the contractor. The battery box to be mounted on brackets.

4.2 PV COOLING STORAGE FACILITY

Solar Panels are also mounted on wooden pole and install close to where the chest freezer will be installed. The panels should be cleared from any shading which may affect the performance of the

panels. The batteries will be inside the battery box mounted to the wooden pole or another appropriate location suggested by the contractor. The battery box to be mounted on brackets.

5 SYSTEM DESIGN

5.1 SOLAR HOME STANDALONE (SHS) SYSTEM SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM

5.2 PV COOLING STORAGE FACILITY SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM235

5.3 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION FOR SOLAR HOME STANDALONE (SHS) SYSTEM

(please refer to Item 7 below1)

5.4 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION FOR PV COOLING STORAGE FACILITY

(please refer to Item 8 below)

6 ACCESS AND LOGISTICS

6.1 SITE CHARACTERISTIC

SHS system will be installed near to each household with PV modules mounted to the wooden Post. The panels should be cleared from any shading which may affect the performance of the panels. Cables to the house should be laid in conduit underground. The batteries will be inside the battery box mounted to the wooden pole with brackets. For Niulakita, the deep freezer will be housed together with the v-sat system and Funafala, it will be installed in the existing guest house.

6.2 GENERATOR

There is a 10kVa generator on the island provided by the Ministry of Health to provide power for the clinic. Unfortunately the generator has not been in operation since the generator delivered to the island. At the time of the visit it was found that the battery and the starter motor were missing. The generator can be used and TEC will rectify these problems for the generator to be used by the project. The generator can be used for standby purpose for the PV cooling storage facility, v-sat and the clinic to charge the batteries when it is required.

There is no generator on the islet of Funafala and residents often borrowed portable generators from Funafuti to power up the church and the community hall.

6.3 EQUIPMENT AND LABOR

There are no lifting equipment on the island and all loading and unloading of equipment are all done manually. The community has the capacity to undertake a project of this scale. Battery pallets can weigh up to 1 tons each and pallets of PV panels weigh several hundred kilograms.

Niulakita residence has experienced in bringing large equipment to the island (e.g. generators, construction materials etc). For Funafala, in 2015, the island community build a church building where all the building materials were all transported from Funafuti to the islet on a lighter and unloaded manually. So the community has the capacity to undertake a project of this scale.

The Nivaga III had two good aluminium boats and can be used by the project to transport the materials to Funafala at a cost of $150/day.

Point of entry through reef passage

6.4 REEF PASSAGE AND STORAGE SPACE

Niulakita has only one reef passage which has no other alternative when the passage is rough. As equipment arriving by ship must be unloaded onto a lighter, which must then cross the wave break and enter the reef passage. There is a concrete ramp constructed on the beach reaching the shoreline. Getting equipment to shore is all done manually. All the materials can be stored in the copra shed.

Funafala has no reef passage but have a proper landing spot. All materials are transported through this landing spot and unloaded manually. In a good weather the boat takes an hour to the island. All project materials can be stored at the community hall.

Point of entry during high tide.

Point of entry during low tide.

6.5 ACCOMODATION AND LIVING ARRANGEMENT

At Niulakita, there is no guest house available on the island. There is one vacant house and significant amount of monies is required to upgrade this house. Living with families on the island can be arranged.

Funafala, there is a 2 bedroom guest house with a kitchen and bathroom. There is no cooking facility and the contractor can bring its own facilities. The rooms can be rented at $30/night.

6.6 GROCERY SHOP

At Niulakita, there is no grocery shop on the island and local food choices are limited, and generally consist of breadfruit, fish, crabs, chicken, bananas, papaya, coconut to name a few. Pork are occasionally available, is generally reserved for feasts or other special occasions. Contractors are encouraged to bring their own food to add a variety of flavor and of nutritional content to the local diet. “Trays” of food can be arranged at the cost of $40 for breakfast and $60 for lunch and dinner. One tray will generally feed several people. There is no grocery shop on the island. The contractor to have sufficient of food supply. The ferry goes to the island occasionally.

Funafala, there is also no grocery shop on the island. Fish is abundant on the island and it is advisable to the contractor to buy its own food from supermarket from Funafuti if decided to stay at the guest house.

6.7 ENTERTAINMENT

Sources of entertainment are limited on Niulakita/Funafala, so the contractor’s staff should consider bringing sporting equipment, laptops and DVDs, books, and other necessary items to stay entertained during the evenings and weekends.

6.8 TELECOMMUNICATION

Niulakita has a v-sat for telephone and internet access and operates occasionally. Telephone and internet can only be accessed at the MET house. Contractor is encouraged to bring its own communication system for their communication needs.

Telephone and internet cannot be accessed on Funafala but there is a VHF radio set yet to be installed. This was donated by the Government of Tuvalu to be served on emergency. The Contractor is encouraged to bring its own communication system for their communication needs.

7. SPECIFICATIONS FOR TYPE 2 SOLAR HOME STANDALONE (SHS) SYSTEMS

7.1 SOLAR HOME SYSTEM HARDWARE DESCRIPTION

 DESCRIPTION

a) The Solar Home System (SHS) is intended to provide the user with a convenient means of supplying power for small electrical loads such as LED lights, small flat screen TVs and radio/cassette players. A typical SHS operates at rated voltage of 12 VDC and will provide power for LED lights, radio/cassette players, TVs or similar low-power appliance for about four to five hours a day. ln the systems, each SHS consists of two (2) photovoltaic (PV) modules with an output of 135Wp charging a 12 V VRLA battery along with lights, related electronic and electrical components and mounting hardware. Mounting hardware should be of aluminium marine grade that can withstand the salty environment in Tuvalu.

b) The SHS should be packaged to provide convenient installation at a remote customer home site by a qualified technician. Preferably, only a field technician should perform routine maintenance such as visual inspection of the system and replacing light bulbs. The technician can easily perform system diagnostics or replace components.

7.2 CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

a) Products supplied will have a certificate f ro m an accredited testing and certification organization acceptable to Tuvalu stating that the Solar Home System meets the standard specifications.

b) Standards that are applicable to this project are;  IEC 61215: 1993 Crystalline Silicon Terrestrial PV Modules - Design Qualification and Type Approval  IEC 61646: 1996 Thin Film Silicon Terrestrial PV Modules- Design Qualification and Type Approval  IEC 60904-1:1987 Photovoltaic Devices Part 1 - Measurement of PV Current-Voltage Characteristics  IEEE 1262: 1995 Recommended Practice for Qualification of Photovoltaic Modules  IEC Standard 61427 © IEC: 2001 Ed.2, Secondary Cells and Batteries for Solar Photovoltaic Energy Systems- General Requirements and Methods of Test  PNS 06: 1987, Lead Acid Storage Specifications  PNS 853: 1993, Portable Valve Regulated Sealed Lead Acid Battery  Indian Standard 1513369:1992 (reaffirmed 1997): Stationary Lead-Acid Batteries (with positive tubular plates) in mono bloc container

c) SHS battery charge controllers, LED lights that have been tested at an accredited testing institute and have a currently valid certification for use in Government of Italy - assisted projects, are eligible for use in the Tuvalu Electricity Corporation Projects. Interested parties wishing to use such products must submit documentation attesting to the fact that their products have been certified for use in the above referenced projects. d) A maximum measurement error of one (1) percent is strictly permitted on all tests of compliance. e) Most appropriate system integration, components, assembly and packaging that meet all the component specifications.

7.3 INVERTERS

Shall be of the pure sine wave type, allows reliable outdoor and indoor installation, ensure maximum energy harvest from array under any conditions, have less potential interference with communication, radio and consumer electronics, excellent thermal performance and meets UL-1741 certification.

7.4 RECOMMENDED BEST PRACTICES

This section provides a minimum set of requirements that shall be followed in the design, specification and installation of the qualified SHS. They form a set of "Best Practices" which when followed will ensure adequate levels of safety, performance, reliability and system lifetime. Suppliers are required to adhere to these Best Practices in order to participate in the projects.

7.4.1 PV MODULE INSTALLATION

a) If more than one module is used, identical models shall be used and they shall be connected in parallel. b) For SHS installed permanently on a structure (in contrast with portable units):

i. The modules must be framed in such a way as to allow secure connection to the module mounting structure. ii. The array mounting structure will hold the photovoltaic module(s). The module(s) must be mounted on a support structure made of corrosion resistant material that assures stable and secure attachment. iii. The PV array and support structure must be able to withstand wind gusts up to 180 km/hour without damage. iv. The structure must be mounted at a fixed angle and oriented to maximize the useful energy supplied to the user during the design month (i.e., the month with the worst average daily insolation). The baseline angle for Tuvalu is 30 degrees from horizontal facing towards true (not magnetic) north. Array orientation must be adjustable in the field. v. The structure will incorporate corrosion resistant hardware for all external connections. These include the modules to structure, structure to pole and pole to building attachments. vi. Ground-mounting - A H6 treated pine pole (20 cm nominal diameter) must be used with the modules attached at the top of the pole. The modules must be at least 3.5 meters off the ground. The poles must be embedded as close as possible to between l.50m to l.75m underground and at least 3.5 meters above the ground. The pole must also be anchored in tightly packed soil or concrete at least one hundred fifty (150) centimeters deep in the ground; or

7.5 PURE SINE WAVE INVERTER

PV modules produces direct current (DC) and batteries store DC energy but the load often requires the use of alternating current (AC). Small systems for lighting circuits may only use DC current, but for power systems it is usually best to use AC. To convert the DC power from the batteries to 240V AC an inverter is used. The inverters shall be utilized for powering a Television, DVD, phone charging, and radio. The inverter shall be connected directly to the battery terminals with adequate input protection.

For the climate and operating conditions of the South Pacific being served, it is essential that the inverter is able to operate in a high ambient temperature environment. Reliability of service is a very important criterion and preference will be given to inverters which have a proven capability under equatorial, coastal conditions.

The following requirements must be met for the Pure Sine Wave Inverter: a) The DC to AC inverter should provide quality AC power equivalent to grid and be able to operate TV, DVD, Small Radio and Fan. b) The inverter shall be of high efficient and low self-power consuming. c) The inverter shall have extensive electronic protection such as short circuit, high temperature, and low voltage disconnect. For example, a low voltage disconnects of 11.5 VDC and low voltage reconnect of 12.6 VDC is suitable for safe operation of deep cycle valve regulated lead-acid batteries used in 12 volts systems. d) The inverter should not have internal cooling fans since fans often fails in harsh environment, consume power and blow dirt into the electronics. e) Preferred inverters shall be Transformer Based. f) Terminals and connections shall be marine grade.

g) The inverter should have LED's to indicate its operating functions and any faults h) The inverter should be protected from overload. i) The inverter should have On/Off switch as well as remote switch and be on standby when there are no loads connected to the inverter. j) The Tenderer has to provide a replacement warranty of at least 2 years (24months) from data of installation.

7.5.1 CIRCUIT PROTECTION AND CHARGE CONTROLS

a) Systems must include a means to protect users and system components from the following: i. Battery overcharge and excessive water loss. ii. Battery undercharge and excessive deep discharge. iii. Circuit protection against short circuit of any load. iv. Circuit protection against reverse polarity of any load. v. Circuit protection against reverse polarity of module or battery. vi. Circuit protection against internal shorts in charge controller or other devices. vii. Circuit protection against damage by the high PV open circuit voltage when it is connected to the controller without battery. viii. Protection of controls against lightning induced transients. ix. Protections against nighttime discharge of the battery due to reverse current through the array. b) For most systems this protection will be provided by a charge controller incorporating a high voltage disconnect (HVD}, low voltage disconnect (LVD) and circuit protection. Devices that integrate these functions into a single device are· strongly encouraged for all SHS sizes but alternate approaches will be considered. c) A solid-state photovoltaic charge controller is required for all systems. d) A double pole non polarized DC circuit breaker should be used to protect inverter, charge controller, solar panel and loads form any short circuit.

7.5.2 SYSTEM MONITORING

a) A display to indicate when the battery is in the charging mode must be provided. b) Some form of a Battery State-of-Charge indicator must be provided on or near the controller or load center. c) This device must, at a minimum, indicate when the battery condition is: • Suitable to operate loads (e.g. voltage greater than the prescribed set point with nominal value 12 VDC) • Energy conservation required (e.g., battery voltage less than 12 VDC the indicators may be LED's, or analog or digital meters. d) The chosen device must come appropriately labeled such that the user does not have to refer to a manual to understand the existing battery condition.

7.6 BATTERIES FOR ACCESSIBLE SYSTEMS

Battery must yield at least 200Ah at the 10hour discharge rate as shown with discharge test results performed starting with a fully charged battery (> 12.8 VDC) discharged through a 20.4A load until battery voltage drops to 10.5 VDC. Voltage data must be recorded at least once per hour until battery is discharged to 10.5 VDC. Vendor must test at least 10% of the batteries to be supplied. Irrespective of the brand quoted vendor must provide results from testing of at least 10% of the batteries.

The following requirements must be met:

a) Batteries should be selected and sized to offer a four-year or more useful life under anticipated operating conditions. b) Deep cycle batteries are preferred. The battery capacity shall be at least one rated amp hours per Wp of PV array capacity. The rated amp-hour capacity is measured at 25 °Cat the C/10 discharge rate down to a voltage of 1.75 volts per cell.

c) The rechargeable battery will preferably consist of one 12 VDC Valve Regulated Lead Acid battery. d) The batteries can be supplied either in a wet-charged or dry-charged condition. If dry charged, all chemicals and electrolyte must be supplied in accordance with battery supplier specifications. The battery and associated containers should be packaged to handle transportation to project site.

7.6.1 BATTERIES FOR RURAL MARITIME AREAS

The TEC have Valve Regulated Lead-Acid (VRLA) batteries in outer islands. A VRLA battery (valve regulated lead-acid battery) is the designation for low-maintenance lead-acid rechargeable batteries. Because of their construction, VRLA batteries do not require regular addition of water to the cells. VRLA batteries are commonly further classified as:

• Absorbed glass mat battery (AGM) • Gel battery (gel cell)

Compared with flooded lead-acid cells, VRLA batteries offer several advantages. The battery can be mounted in any position, since the valves only operate on over pressure faults. Since the battery system is designed to be recombinant and eliminate the emission of gases on overcharge, room ventilation requirements are reduced and no acid fume is emitted during normal operation. The volume of free electrolyte that could be released on damage to the case or venting is very small. There is no need (nor possibility) to check the level of electrolyte or to top up water lost due to electrolysis, reducing inspection and maintenance.

Note: Compared to flooded batteries, VRLA batteries are more sensitive to high temperature environments and more vulnerable to thermal run-away during abusive charging conditions.

Any VRLA battery proposed must as a minimum met the following requirements:

a) The maximum permissible self-discharge rate is 5% of rated capacity per month at 25 degree celcuis. b) Battery must yield at least 200Ah at the 10-hour discharge rate as shown with discharge test results performed starting with a fully charged battery (>12.8VDC} discharged through a 20.4A load until battery voltage drops to 10.5VDC. Voltage data must be recorded at least once per hour until battery is discharged to 10.5VDC. Test Results of at least 10% of the batteries to be supplied is to be provided. c) The thickness of each plate must exceed 2 mm with positive plates at 3 mm. 3% to 6% antimony content in positive plate is required. d) Cycle life of the battery (i.e., before its residual life drops below 80 percent of the rated Ah capacity), at 25 degree Centigrade must exceed 800 cycles when discharged down to an average depth of discharge (DOD) of 50 percent. e) The battery must be production tested and certified in accordance with IEC 61427-1, or better qualification tests.

Battery must yield at least 200Ah at the 10hour discharge rate as shown with discharge test results performed starting with a fully charged battery (> 12.8 VDC) discharged through a 20.4A load until battery voltage drops to 10.5VDC. Voltage data must be recorded at least once per hour until battery is discharged to 10.5VDC. Vendor must test at least 10% of the batteries to be supplied. The following requirements must be met for the VRLA batteries

a) Batteries should be selected and sized to offer a four-years or more useful life under anticipated operating conditions. b) Deep cycle batteries are preferred. The battery capacity shall be at least one rated amp hours per Wp of PV array capacity. The rated amp-hour capacity is measured at 25 °Cat the C/10 discharge rate down to a voltage of 1.75 volts per cell. c) The supplier must provide the warranty and guaranty of the Gel Battery.

d) The battery and associated containers should be packaged to handle transport down rough dirt roads

7.7 ENCLOSURE OR BOX

a) The box will house the charge controller, charge indicators, low voltage disconnect, and all interconnecting wiring. The face of the enclosure should be clear, transparent, and of non - brittle material to view the states of the controller. b) The box(s) should be made up of Aluminum checker plate or similar material to prevent corrosion. c) The box(s) should withstand the load of the battery, inverter and the charge controller. d) The box(s) should be divided into two solid sections to prevent electronic component getting damaged from gassing of the battery. Solar Charge Controller and inverter to be mounted on top section and battery in the bottom. e) The box should have a provision for locking facility. This will prevent tempering of controllers, inverters and batteries. A master key should be provided to open all the boxes. f) Boxes must be constructed of a durable material so as to last 10 or more years without maintenance. g) Proper ventilation should be provided.

7.8 WIRING

a) Stranded and flexible insulated copper wiring must be used. Minimum acceptable length and cross-section of the wire in each of the following sub-circuits is as follows:

i. From PV module to regulator/controller: 13m or more, 2-conductor, no earth, direct burial of 4 mm2 cross-section ii. From regulator/controller to battery: 2m or more, 2-conductor, no earth 4.0mm2 iii. From controller to loads: 50m or more, 2-conductor, no earth 2.5mm2 iv. From battery to Inverter: 2m or more, 2-conductor, no earth 6.0mm2 v. From Inverter to Power Point: 10m or more, 2 conductor + earth 2.5mm2 TPS Power Point wire (Standard) vi. From Inverter to earth conductor (earth rod): 10m or more, PVC Single Green 2.5mm2 earth wire (Standard). b) Notwithstanding the above minimum wire size requirements, all wiring must be sized to keep line voltage losses to less than 5% in each sub-circuit and to allow the circuit to operates within the capacity rating of the wire. c) For SHS permanently installed on a structure, all exposed wiring (with the possible exception of the module interconnects) must be in conduits or be firmly fastened to the building structure. Wiring through roofing, walls and other structures must be protected through the use of bushings. Wiring through roofing must form a waterproof seal. Where the wiring is through flammable material (e.g. thatched roofs), they must be protected in a metal conduit. Adequate fasteners, conduits, bushings and other installation hardware must be supplied. d). Field-installed wiring must be joined using terminal strips or screw connectors. Soldering or crimping in the field must be avoided if at all possible. Wire nuts are not allowed. The rated current carrying capacity of the joint must not be less than the circuit current rating. All connections must be made in junction boxes. Fittings for lights, switches, and socket outlets may be used as junction boxes where practical. e) All wiring shall be followed the SAA Wiring Rules color-coded and/or labeled. f). Earth wire to be installed in a conduit from the enclosure to the earth conductor outside the house.

7.9 LIGHTS AND SOCKET OUTLET

a) Lighting shall be provided with White Light-Emitting Diode (W-LEDs) a LED night light consisting off:  Three interior 2 feet fitting ceiling mounted, 9W LEDs with separate wall- mounted switches

b) Socket Outlet 10A power point (GPO) to be located to suit the occupants and installed surface mounted complete with mounting block (separate from the mounting blocks allocated for the light switches). Wiring shall be 2C+E 2.5mm2 TPS cable utilizing a maximum cable length of 10 meters per house.

8. SPECIFICATIONS FOR PV COOLING STORAGE FACILITY

8.1 PV COOLING STORAGE FACILITY HARDWARE DESCRIPTION

8.1.1 DESCRIPTION

a) The PV Cooling Storage Facility intended to provide the community with a 415ltrs chest freezer to drive some economic activities like storing of fish or other food items which resident of the community can sell their items to the market on Funafuti, the capital. The systems, each consists of three photovoltaic (PV) modules with an output of 235Wp charging a 24 V VRLA battery b a n k along with related electronic and electrical components and mounting hardware. The system will be fitted with a kWhr meter to record the consumption of the chest freezer.

b) The PV Cooling Storage should be packaged to provide convenient installation at a remote location and the technician can easily perform system diagnostics or replace components.

8.1.2 INVERTERS

8.1.3 RECOMMENDED BEST PRACTICES

This section provides a minimum set of requirements that shall be followed in the design, specification and installation of the Cooling storage Facility. They form a set of "Best Practices" which when followed will ensure adequate levels of safety, performance, reliability and system lifetime. Suppliers are required to adhere to these Best Practices in order to participate in the projects.

8.2 PV MODULE INSTALLATION

a) If more than one module is used, identical models shall be used and they shall be connected in parallel. b) For Cooling Storage Facility installed permanently on a structure (in contrast with portable units):

possible to between l.50m to l.75m underground and at least 3.5 meters above the ground. The pole must also be anchored in tightly packed soil or concrete at least one hundred fifty (150) centimeters deep in the ground.

8.3 PURE SINE WAVE INVERTER

PV modules produces direct current (DC) and batteries store DC energy but the load often requires the use of alternating current (AC). To convert the DC power from the batteries to 240V AC an inverter is used. The inverters shall be utilized for powering a 41 5ltrs chest freezer. The inverter shall be connected directly to the battery terminals with adequate input protection.

For the climate and operating conditions of Tuvalu being served, it is essential that the inverter is able to operate in a high ambient temperature environment. Reliability of service is a very important criterion and preference will be given to inverters which have a proven capability under equatorial, coastal conditions.

The following requirements must be met for the Pure Sine Wave Inverter.

a) The DC to AC inverter should provide quality AC power equivalent to grid and be able to operate a 415litres chest freezer. b) The inverter shall be of high efficient and low self-power consuming. c) The inverter shall have extensive electronic protection such as short circuit, high temperature, and low voltage disconnect. For example, a low voltage disconnects of 22.8VDC and low voltage reconnect of 24.6VDC is suitable for safe operation of sealed AGM or Gel type. d) The inverter should not have internal cooling fans since fans often fails in harsh environment, consume power and blow dirt into the electronics. e) Preferred inverters shall be Transformer Based. f) Terminals and connections shall be marine grade. g) The inverter should have LED's to indicate its operating functions and any faults h) The inverter should be protected from overload. i) The inverter should have On/Off switch as well as remote switch and be on standby when there are no loads connected to the inverter. j) The Tenderer has to provide a replacement warranty of at least 2 years (24months) from date of installation.

8.3.1 CIRCUIT PROTECTION AND CHARGE CONTROLS

a) Systems must include a means to protect users and system components from the following: i. Battery overcharge and undercharge and excessive deep discharge. ii. Circuit protection against short circuit of any load. iii. Circuit protection against reverse polarity of any load. iv. Circuit protection against reverse polarity of module or battery. v. Circuit protection against internal shorts in charge controller or other devices. vi. Circuit protection against damage by the high PV open circuit voltage when it is connected to the controller without battery. vii. Protection of controls against lightning induced transients. viii. Protections against nighttime discharge of the battery due to reverse current through the array. b) For most systems this protection will be provided by a charge controller incorporating a high voltage disconnect (HVD}, low voltage disconnect (LVD) and circuit protection. Devices that integrate these functions into a single device are· strongly encouraged the two cooling storage facility but alternate approaches will be considered. c) A solid-state photovoltaic charge controller is required for all systems. d) A double pole non polarized DC circuit breaker should be used to protect inverter, charge controller, solar panel and loads form any short circuit. 8.3.2 SYSTEM MONITORING

• Suitable to operate loads (e.g. voltage greater than the prescribed set point with nominal value 24 VDC) • Energy conservation required (e.g., battery voltage less than 24VDC the indicators may be LED's, or analog or digital meters. d) The chosen device must come appropriately labeled such that the user does not have to refer to a manual to understand the existing battery condition.

8.4 BATTERIES FOR ACCESSIBLE SYSTEMS

Battery must yield at least 500Ah at the 10hour discharge rate as shown with discharge test results performed starting with a fully charged battery (> 24 VDC) discharged through a 20.4A load until battery voltage drops to 22.8VDC. Voltage data must be recorded at least once per hour until battery is discharged to 22.8VDC. Vendor must test at least 10% of the batteries to be supplied. Irrespective of the brand quoted vendor must provide results from testing of at least 10% of the batteries.

The following requirements must be met:

8.5 BATTERIES FOR RURAL MARITIME AREAS

The use of VRLA batteries are preferable by TEC to be used by the project because of their construction. VRLA batteries do not require regular additions of water to the cells. VRLA batteries are commonly further classified as: • Absorbed glass mat battery (AGM) • Gel battery (gel cell)

Note: Compared to flooded batteries, VRLA batteries are more sensitive to high temperature environments and more vulnerable to thermal run-away during abusive charging conditions.

Any VRLA battery proposed must as a minimum met the following requirements:

a) The maximum permissible self-discharge rate is 5% of rated capacity per month at 25 degree Celsius b) Battery must yield at least 500Ah at the 10hour discharge rate as shown with discharge test results performed starting with a fully charged battery (>24VDC} discharged through a 30A load until battery voltage drops to 22.8VDC. Voltage data must be recorded at least once per hour until battery is discharged to 10.5VDC. Test Results of at least 10% of the batteries to be supplied is to be provided. c) The thickness of each plate must exceed 2 mm with positive plates at 3mm. 3% to 6% antimony content in positive plate is required.

d) Cycle life of the battery (i.e., before its residual life drops below 80 percent of the rated Ah capacity), at 25 degree Centigrade must exceed 800 cycles when discharged down to an average depth of discharge (DOD) of 50 percent. e) The battery must be production tested and certified in accordance with IEC 61427-1, or better qualification tests.

Battery must yield at least 500Ah at the 10hour discharge rate as shown with discharge test results performed starting with a fully charged battery (>24 VDC) discharged through a 30A load until battery voltage drops to 22.8 VDC. Voltage data must be recorded at least once per hour until battery is discharged to 10.5 VDC. Vendor must test at least 10% of the batteries to be supplied.

The following requirements must be met for the VRLA batteries

a) Batteries should be selected and sized to offer a four-years or more useful life under anticipated operating conditions. b) Deep cycle batteries are preferred. The battery capacity shall be at least one rated amp• hours per Wp of PV array capacity. The rated amp-hour capacity is measured at 25 °Cat the C/10 discharge rate down to a voltage of 1.75 volts per cell. c) The supplier must provide the warranty and guaranty of the Gel Battery. d) The battery and associated containers should be packaged to handle transport.

8.6 ENCLOSURE OR BOX

a) The box will house the charge controller, charge indicators, low voltage disconnect, and all interconnecting wiring. The face of the enclosure should be clear, transparent, and of non – brittle material to view the states of the controller. b) The box(s) should be made up of Aluminum checker plate or similar material to prevent corrosion. c) The box(s) should withstand the load of the battery, inverter and the charge controller. d) The box(s) should be divided into two solid sections to prevent electronic component getting damaged from gassing of the battery. Solar Charge Controller and inverter to be mounted on top section and battery in the bottom. e) The box should have a provision for locking facility. This will prevent tempering of controllers, inverters and batteries. A master key should be provided to open all the boxes. f) Boxes must be constructed of a durable material so as to last 10 or more years without maintenance. g) Proper ventilation should be provided.

8.7 WIRING

a) Stranded and flexible insulated copper wiring must be used. Minimum acceptable length and cross-section of the wire in each of the following sub-circuits is as follows:

b) Notwithstanding the above minimum wire size requirements, all wiring must be sized to keep line voltage losses to less than 5% in each sub-circuit and to allow the circuit to operate within the capacity rating of the wire. c) For the cooling facility permanently installed on a structure, all exposed wiring {with the possible exception of the module interconnects) must be in conduits or be firmly fastened to the building structure. Wiring through roofing, walls and other structures

must be protected through the use of bushings. Wiring through roofing must form a waterproof seal. Where the wiring is through flammable material (e.g. thatched roofs), they must be protected in a metal conduit. Adequate fasteners, conduits, bushings and other installation hardware must be supplied.

d) Field-installed wiring must be joined using terminal strips or screw connectors. Soldering or crimping in the field must be avoided if at all possible. Wire nuts are not allowed. The rated current carrying capacity of the joint must not be less than the circuit current rating. All connections must be made in junction boxes. Fittings for lights, switches, and socket outlets may be used as junction boxes where practical. e) All wiring shall be color-coded and/or labeled. f) Earth wire to be installed in a conduit from the enclosure to the earth conductor outside the house.

9 TOOLS AND SPARE PARTS The bidders to supply the following: 9.1 TOOLS 2 x tool boxes, 2 x AC/DC multimeters, 2 x set of insulated screw drivers, 2 X Pliers, 2 x side cutters, 2 x long nose, 2 x hacksaws, 2 x adjustable swifter, 2 x set of open hand spanners, 2 x set of sockets, 2 x set of allen keys and 2 x aluminium step ladder.

9.2 SPARE PARTS SOLAR HOME STANDALONE (SHS) SYSTEM 4 x set of Type 2 Solar Home Standalone (SHS) System (2 x for each island),

PV COOLING STORAGE FACILITY 4 x 235watts panel, 2 x 24volts charge controller, 4 x VLRA batteries and 2 x battery charger (to charge spare batteries.

10 NO OF HOUSEHOLDS

10.1 NIULAKITA HOUSEHOLDS

No Description No of Remarks Systems 1 Primary School 1 SHS Type 2 but require 10 lights 2 Teacher Residence 1 SHS Type 2 system 3 Residence 1 1 SHS Type 2 system 4 Residence 2 1 SHS Type 2 system 5 Residence 3 1 SHS Type 2 system 6 Residence 4 1 SHS Type 2 system 7 Residence 5 1 SHS Type 2 system 8 Residence 6 1 SHS Type 2 system 9 Residence 7 1 SHS Type 2 system 10 Residence 8 1 SHS Type 2 system 11 Residence 9 1 SHS Type 2 system 12 Residence 10 1 SHS Type 2 system 13 Church 1 SHS Type 2 system but require 10lights 14 Pastor’s Residence 1 SHS Type 2 system but require 10lights 15 Community hall 1 SHS Type 2 system 16 Clinic 1 SHS Type 2 system but require to power a small refrigerator for storage of vaccine 17 MET Residence 1 SHS Type 2 system 18 Telecom Residence 1 SHS Type 2 system but able to power the V-SAT for communication purposes. 19 Copra House 1 SHS Type 2 system 20 Spare Systems 2 SHS Type 2 system TOTAL 21 PV Cooling Storage Facility

1 PV Cooling storage 1 Install at the agreed location by the community Facility

10.2 FUNAFALA HOUSEHOLDS

No Description No of Remarks Systems 1 Residence 1 1 SHS Type 2 system 2 Residence 2 1 SHS Type 2 system 3 Residence 3 1 SHS Type 2 system 4 Residence 4 1 SHS Type 2 system 5 Residence 5 1 SHS Type 2 system 6 Residence 6 1 SHS Type 2 system 7 Residence 7 1 SHS Type 2 system 8 Residence 8 1 SHS Type 2 system 9 Residence 9 1 SHS Type 2 system 10 Residence 10 1 SHS Type 2 system 11 Residence 11 1 SHS Type 2 system 12 Residence 12 1 SHS Type 2 system 13 Residence 13 1 SHS Type 2 system 14 Residence 14 1 SHS Type 2 system 15 Church 1 SHS Type 2 system but able to power the existing 11X48watts/CFL 240vac already installed. 16 Guest house 1 SHS Type 2 system 17 Community hall 1 SHS Type 2 system 18 Spare Systems 2 TOTAL 19 PV Cooling Storage Facility 1 PV Cooling Storage 1 Install at the agreed location by the community Facility

SUMMARY

No Island No of SHS Spare SHS Cooling Systems System Storage 1 Niulakita Island 19 2 1 2 Funafala Island 17 2 1 TOTAL 36 4 2