In a perfect world, everyone, regardless of location, could have access to affordable, clean, renewable energy. In reality, more than 2.5 billion people across the globe do not have access to any power source at all. Most of these individuals rely on kerosene or other fossil fuels for light. Burning these fossil fuels creates large amounts of toxic fumes as well as high levels of greenhouse gases. Just one kerosene lamp, which is the most common source of light in third world countries and developing nations, produces about one ton of carbon emissions over a seven-year period. Obviously, an alternative, cleaner source of energy is necessary, and solar lighting or solar power is the answer!
Making solar energy available to as many individuals as possible is a noteworthy endeavor. The people of these third world and developing countries can serve their basic needs while reducing environmental pollution. As more solar lighting units are introduced, jobs will be generated. Individuals who have experienced the remarkable power generation capabilities of solar panels will tell others, which in turn will create more jobs and assist more families. Finally, demands for our precious fossil fuel resources will be diminished, thereby helping the entire planet.
Solar power systems and technology are becoming more efficient, more economical, smaller, and more appealing to the eye. Likewise, thanks to this modern technology and water-heating properties of solar panels, some people have been able to take a hot bath for the first time in their lives! Solar power is also being used in cooperation with water in heating and cooling systems for homes where such luxuries were otherwise impossible. Lives have been saved, jobs have been generated, carbon emissions have been reduced, and the quality of life for countless individuals have been raised, all because of solar power!
In our current global economy, it is important to not only reduce the environmental impact of burning fossil fuels in third world countries, but also in the richest countries. And, although the rich countries have a large impact on climate change, it is important for all countries and people to do their part, in their own way, to reduce greenhouse emissions and fossil fuel use. Through the use of solar panels, solar lighting, and solar power systems, we can improve the lives of everyone, regardless of location or economic status. We can help those in the poorest of nations to cope with environmental and energy challenges to come, while at the same time helping them to reduce their own environmental impact.
Is there any way an individual can help to help different communities set up solar powered systems in their country. I’d like to volunteer to help so this
The Solar Electric Light Fund would probably be the best place to start your search. They have projects worldwide and have a four star charity rating.
The Caribbean African Association of Barbados (CAAB)is a non-profit, non governmental organization registered in Barbados. Our objective is to enhance human resource development in Africa and the Caribbean through, education/technology, trade and culture. Previously, we have worked with different schools in book/computer donation programmes to Africa. Currently, we are working with three rural communities in Nigeria to assist them in obtaining electricity through renewable energy (solar and wind). We are therefore sourcing for funding for these projects. We would appreciate if you can assist us in this regard.
Thanks.
Dr. Edward Okey
Chair Education and Technology Comm
I only know of the Solar Electric Light Fund from reading about it on their website and others. I personally do not have association with SELF. Here is their contact information from the website.
Solar Electric Light Fund
1612 K Street, NW Suite 402
Washington, DC 20006
202-234-7265
Our operating hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. E.S.T.
I was surprised to hear that 2.5 billion people don’t have access to power…that is definitely a lot! Thanks for the post.
“Thanks to modern technology, generous donations from affluent countries or individuals”
What are some countries that have been donating to this? I’d like to know more about that.
solar energy will get cheaper in the future and more efficient too..,
I am interested in what Steve said in Dec.29,2009 about Solar Electric Light Fund. Are they in the Philippines? I am interested in looking at the possibility of installing simple off grid household solar system in rural rural areas. I write practical articles at: http://www.justsolarhome.blogspot.com to guide and help beginners.
SELF works around the world, targeting those places and issues that need critical attention, or where the effects of our work can have the greatest, widest impact on agriculture, education, health and micro-enterprise. More information here: http://www.self.org/projects1.shtml
I would like to refer to this statement:
“Just one kerosene lamp, which is the most common source of light in third world countries and developing nations, produces about one ton of carbon emissions over a seven-year period.”
First, kerosene lamps are not “the most common source of light”, although I think they are common enough. Developing nations are, well, developing, and electricity, being a century-old invention, has arrived to most countries. It may be the extremely poor people on those countries that may resort to lamps for their needs.
Second, and most important, one tone of carbon emissions in seven years, while a single car (of which you probably have two at home), small (this is for a Nissan Versa, but you can lookup yours here: http://www.epa.gov/greenvehicles/Index.do), produces more than 5 ton per year, roughly 35 times as much.
It is sad that many people in the world are having real hard times, but their greenhouse effect is not (or should not) be our reason to help them out.