SCIENCE lessons at Merebank Secondary School are looking brighter now, after Engen handed over a new solar-powered science lab to the school on July 24.

The 15kW portable solar container was put together by Engen Business and Energy Solutions and installed by their engineering team. The container is designed to give the school’s science lab a steady, reliable source of power, even when the grid goes down.

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Inside the container is a system that includes an uninterruptible power supply, meaning practical science experiments and STEM activities can carry on without interruption. The school expects this to benefit nearly 600 learners, boosting their STEM programme and cutting down on electricity bills. The money saved on power costs means the school can put more resources into other educational needs and even offer more after-school programmes in the science lab.

Olwethu Mdabula, Engen’s Corporate Social Investment Manager, emphasised how critical consistent electricity is for good education. 

“By investing in sustainable energy infrastructure, we are helping create an environment where learners can continue exploring science, technology and innovation without interruption. This initiative reflects Engen’s commitment to supporting education while contributing to a more sustainable future,” said Mdabula. 

Principal’s comment

The principal of Merebank Secondary, Kishan Bridgelal, said the donation will serve as a long-term investment. 

“Our learners have a real passion for science and technology, and having a reliable power supply for our science laboratory will significantly enhance their learning experience. The solar-powered container ensures that practical lessons can continue during power outages, while also enabling us to make greater use of the laboratory after school for additional learning opportunities,” said Bridgelal. 

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Kevin Singh, who heads Engen Business and Energy Solutions, explained that these portable solar containers are built to deliver power where it’s most needed.

This solar lab is part of an ongoing relationship between Engen and Merebank Secondary. Last year, Engen provided robotics and coding equipment to enhance the school’s STEM programme, giving learners opportunities to build digital skills and learn problem-solving. 

The solar-powered lab complements these efforts by providing the necessary power for hands-on learning.

Mdabula said that education can change lives and create opportunities. “By combining sustainable energy with quality learning environments, we are helping equip young people with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven world,” she said.

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