The Sun is Free and Inexhaustible

Africa has one of the best climates for solar technology – photovoltaic panels – which convert the sun’s radiation directly into electricity with no pollution or damage to the environment. The panels can generate enough power to run stoves, pump water, light clinics and power televisions.

Solar3

Last month, I witnessed the installation of Solar Panels at YTF’s Owerri Digital Village in Nigeria.  As far as I know this is the first community technology and learning center in Nigeria to have embarked on such a laudable project for the benefit of the communities it serves.

YTF’s installation of solar panels is part of our commitment to use solar power to enhance the quality of our beneficiaries’ lives and also for the improvement of the planet.  Part of the plan is to educate the children we work with to become future solar engineers.  It is a great example of what modern technology can do and how it can improve people’s lives.

Classroom

5 solar panels were installed.  The panels are attached to batteries that power the Owerri Digital Village as a stand-alone building without access to a grid connection.  In developing countries, like Nigeria, gaining access to electricity can be really life changing.  People’s productivity immediately increases, children have more reading light to study; they are more connected and are able to keep up with their global peers, it eradicates indoor pollution and reduces worldwide carbon emissions caused by generator usage.

Solar1

YTF’s installation of the Solar Panels speaks to its relentless effort to “deliver to the community.”  Since the completion of the installation in September, the community has had nothing but praise for our efforts.  We have people from the community stopping by just to ask if they can charge their phones for 5 minutes.  Every little bit helps.  Most of Africa has mobile coverage but many people don’t have the means to charge their phones.  For those who can, it is life changing.  They can keep in touch with friends and family in the urban areas.

Solar2

With many communities lacking access to basic necessities such as electricity, clean water and effective irrigation systems; the innovations in solar powered technologies have led to poverty alleviation projects that combine development strategies and environmental consciousness.  YTF is humbled to be a pioneer in protecting the environment for the benefit of the people we serve.

 

*******
Ezekiel Nworie is a program manager at YTF – Nigeria.  He is responsible for implementing YTF’s education programs in technology and entrepreneurship for youth and women.  He is passionate about youth development and community activism.

Please follow and like us:
© 2013 – forever  |  privacy policy  | YTF is a 501c3 non profit company.  |  Made with ❤ on earth…