Light an Affordable Commodity in Off-grid Areas ?

Tags:: Lake Victoria Kenya Electricity OffGrid Solar Power Lamp Light Lighting Energy EnvironmentalProtection Sustainability

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By: LucyLumen
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Updated: 28-Apr-08
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English
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Added: 28-Apr-08

About 1.6 billion people worldwide depend on "fuel-based lighting" because they do not have access to the electric grid, usually burning kerosene for light in different types of lanterns. Besides being a very inefficient light source, kerosene lighting is expensive, dangerous and poses a health hazard for its users. The first step in establishing a viable global solution for off-grid lighting is a pilot project. OSRAM has started this pilot around eastern Africa's Lake Victoria, addressing local fishermen and their communities. In April 2008, the first O-HUB in Mbita, Kenya, was inaugurated. Lake Victoria was chosen because the local fishermen fishing for sardines at night use kerosene lanterns. The fishermen spend up to 70% of their income on kerosene, so they have a strong interest in efficient lighting.