Simple but effective solar technology in LEDCs

1. Simple but effective solar technology in LEDCs Case studies Solar cookers in Africa Solar bottle bulbs in the Philippines -Most of the people in Africa relies on fuel wood as a major source of heating, especially for cooking food and water. -However, not only the smoke from the wood pollutes the air, this is a major concern for Africans health as poor ventilations in homes traps the smoke inside. -This can lead to the lung diseases such as asthma. Benefits: -By teaching the local people on how to make solar cooker by only using cardboards and reflective surfaces, most of their cooking can now be done during the day by making use of the natural sunlight. -Health risks are reduced and water can be heated in order to kill the harmful microorganism that can affect their health. -The locals do not have to waste time and energy looking for fuel wood everyday. -Buying the necessary items for making a solar cooker costs only about $1 - 2, which is quite affordable for those who have very low monthly wages. -Illac Diaz, of non-profit My Shelter Foundation, brought the simple, cheap and innovative technology to the Philippines through his project, "A Liter of Light." -The bottle is able to produce the same amount of energy as a 55W bulb. -With the help of many local governments, "A Liter of Light" and its collaborators have installed 12,000 solar bottle bulbs, lighting 10,000 homes in five Filipino provinces. Benefits: -Although it can only provide light during the day, people living in slums no longer have to work in dark interiors during the day. -The solar bottles can be bought and installed at approximately $1 each. -According to Diaz, using bottle bulbs instead of electricity or generators, families can save $6 per month. (Philippines is said to have the most expensive electricity in Asia and slum homes do not have electricity meters with illegal connections costing more than standard rates) Illac Diaz with a solar bottle