Solar Philanthropy: Five Groups Using Solar to End Energy Poverty

By Ysabel Yates, Contributor
31 July 2012  

 

Approximately 1.3 billion people live without regular access to energy. People are forced to use fuels that pollute and cause respiratory illnesses, like kerosene and biomass, and spend long hours time collecting fuel. It is a global crisis that is harming the health and well-being of people in the developing world, in addition to harming the planet.

Ending energy poverty is about more than helping people see at night — it’s about economic opportunity, safer and healthier communities, better educational opportunities and connection to the rest of the world.

A number of organizations are working to bring solar-powered energy solutions to the developing world. Solar power is the best alternative because it doesn’t require any prior infrastructure or use of existing resources. It’s safe for nighttime light, and can generate power for other uses, such as charging cell phones or powering medical equipment.

Below is a look at a handful of the many organizations working to end energy poverty using solar power.