We have an array of ten solar panels giving us a maximum power of 800 watts.
Although this is limited, we supplement that power with another 1000 watts supplied by our micro hydro turbine. and we have ensured that we use low powered electrical appliances and have found it to be amply sufficient for our current needs.
Guests should have no problem using their own electrical appliances, but we ask them to inform us if they are planning to do so, in order for us to make sure that not everyone is pulling big power all at once.
The power provided by the systems in place here at 3 rivers is 240 voilts, Dominica standard, with the 3 pin square power outlets the same as those used in the UK. If your is different, bring the necessary adapters and transformers with you. A 110 volt appliance cannot work here without a transformer!
We also use the sun to pump water for the hotel from one our adjacent rivers. This 24 volt solar slowpump is powered by two panels and is capable of pumping 1000 gallons in less than four hours of moderate sunshine. Even on a cloudy day the pump still works sufficiently for our requirements. The river we use is crystal clear and we test the water regularly in the laboratory to ensure it's continued cleanliness. The water passes through a filter before being pushed up the hillside to our holding tank, from where it drops down to the cottages using gravity.
Each cottage has its own simple solar thermosyphon hot water system. Water is heated in a collector on the lower end of the roof, and as it heats up it rises to a hot water cylinder on the top of the roof (hot water rises naturally).
As this hot water cools down it circulates back through the system to the collector so that it can always remain hot. No pumps, no electric heaters and always plenty of hot water for your needs !
One of the beauties of 3 Rivers is the night sky, and so outside lighting is of the utmost importance. We want you to find your way around, but we do not wish to spoil your view of the stars. Therefore, dotted all around the site, are some solar powered path lights : they light enough to show you the way, but do not distract from your view of the planets. Each light is independant, with its own solar panel and batteries, which are recharged every day by the sun. They have built in sensors and light up at night, and switch off automatically during the day.
