|
|
|
|
Access to energy is a basic necessity to promote economic and social development. Lack of energy or access to affordable energy supplies is directly linked to the basic elements of poverty.
These elements include low education levels and the restriction of opportunities for financial improvement.
|
| |
Despite great worldwide success in reducing poverty, lack of access to energy supplies remains one of today's great global issues. It is estimated that nearly one half of the world's population, 3 billion people lives on less than $ 2.00 per day and that up to one fifth of the world's population-1.5 billion people-lives on less than $ 1.00 per day. For the worlds poor, lack of wealth is only part of the problem, the other being a lack of what is necessary for economic improvement including energy access.
Without access to modern, commercial energy, the world's poor can be trapped in a vicious cycle of poverty, social instability and slow or non-existent development.
Although access to electricity has been extended over the past 25 years to over 1.3 billion people living in developing countries, there are still numerous challenges. It is estimated that 1.6 billion people, approximately one quarter of the global population, continues to have no access to electricity.
Despite advances in providing rural power, the number of people lacking access to electricity continues to grow due to increases in the world's population. It is estimated that without new sources of affordable energy, more than 1.4 billion people will still be dependent on biomass as their only source of energy by the year 2030. The use and burning of biomass will continue to be a source of unhealthy air in the home and also produce environmental damage as well. |
| |
| Rural Electricity |
As electricity becomes available, it is first used for lighting and communications. Only later is it used as a source of power and energy for other domestic purposes that affect living standards. Electricity allows tasks previously done by hand or animal power to be done much more quickly and efficiently with electric powered machines. Electric lighting allows individuals to extend the length of time spent on income producing activities. It also allows children time to read or do homework. Having access to radio and television also provides information to rural residents. This in turn offers the potential for self improvement.
Rural electrification through solar PV technology is becoming more popular, day by day throughout the world. Solar Home Systems (SHS's) are highly decentralized and particularly suitable for remote, inaccessible areas.
SHS's can be used to light up homes, shops, fishing boats etc. They can also be used to charge cellular phones, run televisions, radios and cassette players. SHS's have become increasingly popular among users because they present an attractive alternative to conventional electricity. They offer the promise of no monthly electric bills, no fuel cost, very little repair, maintenance costs, ease of installation as well as the chance for financial improvement.
|
| |
|
Eco-Sun-Wind Global Clean Energy Products and Services
Contact: ecorover@gmail.com 1-415-351-8320 International |
|
|
|
|
|
