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NetSquared is an initiative ofTechSoup
NetSquared enables social benefit organizations to leverage the tools of the social web.
Job creation, income generation, and affordable lighting through "micro-solar" products
Large solar panel packages are expensive, require extensive training and maintenance programs, and are almost always provided to local communities free of charge through donor or government funding. Although most solar equipment is extremely reliable and include 20-25 year warranties, the lack of training, community involvement, and sense of community ownership of the equipment have resulted in over 70% of solar packages in Africa failing within five years of installation.* Through One Degree Solar, clean energy will not only be a tool for development, but a catalyst for sustainable and continued growth.
Goals
• To provide affordable, clean technology products to individual consumers, schools, health facilities, small- and medium-size businesses, NGOs, and micro-finance institutions.
• To reduce energy costs for the world's poorest communities and create opportunities for economic growth through increased access to lighting and other energy-related prerequisites for development.
• To generate income within these communities using clean energy (crank and/or solar) products including, but not limited to, radios, phone chargers, flashlights and general lighting, and battery chargers.
• To address the market need and demand for rechargeable batteries of all sizes and battery recharging services. Using solar energy for such services would virtually eliminate operating costs, thus drastically increasing profits for store owners and lowering costs for consumers.
• To create jobs for small business owners and individuals who sell clean energy products and provide services using these products
Products Tested
• Solar powered universal battery charger; lunchbox size. Charges AAA to D size batteries used in existing radios, flashlights, and headlamps.
• Solar car battery charger; briefcase size. Car batteries are used to power small stores and homes.
• Battery powered headlamp. Cost effective lighting for health professionals, school children, as well as average individuals and families.
• Solar and crank powered radio. Radio is the primary means for government and UN to relay news.
*based on interviews with energy experts from major multilateral donor agencies
