Energy Challenges in Developing Countries
At best, the current state of energy sources in developing countries is unreliable. At worst, they do not exist at all. Without energy, communities fall behind in producing clean water, food, and manufacturing- all things essential for a healthy life. Unfortunately, that is what many countries in the world today face, and it will be difficult to reverse some of the impacts energy challenges bring.
Presently, many developing nations simply cannot afford to fund the extension of existing power grids to reach those without power. Even the cost to maintain the struggling infrastructure already in place is out of the question for most. Without proper funding, citizens constantly rely on traditional nonrenewable power sources to operate their daily lives. People turn to dangerous deforestation practices to burn wood and mine charcoal for heat. Embracing environmentally safe practices, such as renewable energy sources, benefits these communities by providing sustainable power and helping protect the environment, mitigating the adverse impacts of deforestation and charcoal production on local ecosystems.
These challenges are only a reality if we don’t act. The solution to all these issues lies in changing the energy source to solar power. Promoting education on energy-saving tips, renewable energy sources, and the importance of reliable energy sources can bring forth positive change.
Basics of Solar Design in Developing Countries
One in seven people in the world lives without electricity. You may even hear the phrase “energy poverty” when referring to areas without a reliable power source. In developing countries, infrastructure associated with more traditional energy sources often fails or is often absent in remote rural areas. This is referred to as being “off-grid.” With a traditional energy supply, homes and businesses must be attached to the electrical grid and depend on the grid’s reliability to stay active. With solar power, communities can install solar cells and panels anywhere, usually for a smaller cost.
Solar energy utilization in developing countries is increasingly prevalent and proving highly effective in tackling core energy challenges. In fact, many developing nations are taking the lead in the worldwide adoption of solar power. This trend is natural, considering that many of these regions boast a readily available and abundant energy source as they are closer to the equator with prolonged daily exposure to sunlight, meaning that they are especially well-suited for harnessing solar energy.
Solar Power Water Pump Design
One of the most valuable devices you can power with solar is a water pump. In remote rural villages worldwide, water pumps are needed to provide clean water to drink and irrigate crops. Water pumps using solar panels collect energy from the sun through photons to produce a direct current, which operates the pump’s motor.
At Healing Waters International, we provide water filtration solutions that rely on solar power. Our Solar Pure solution is one of our most exciting systems since it can effectively help any community worldwide.
You will not need to rely on an electrical grid or the right geographical conditions for a gravity-fed solution. All that is needed is the sun. In turn, the Solar Pure can use a five-step purification process to remove all impurities from existing water sources. The Solar Pure solution is compact, fast, and reliable. Solar Pure comes with an additional backup battery supply even when energy levels from the sun are low.
How is Solar Power Beneficial in Developing Countries?
Solar power improves multiple facets of human lives, from daily tasks to the ability to expand an entire country’s industrial capabilities. Contrary to what some may believe, solar power is powerful enough to sustain communities’ energy needs and will even allow them to grow in ways never thought possible. Some of the benefits will be noticed immediately, while other large-scale impacts, such as environmental and economic conditions, will steadily start to improve over time.
Daily Life
People can cook, warm their homes, and enjoy reliable, clean water sources without constant power interruptions. Since people will not have to worry about these daily tasks, they can further their focus on aspects of their lives that allow them to thrive instead of survive.
Commercial Use
Businesses, emergency services, healthcare providers, and schools cannot function without power. Solar power brings life back into these essential facilities, allowing for a healthier populace and economy.
Transportation
A lack of transportation options is a huge focus for developing nations. Many researchers and engineers are attempting to develop ways to harness solar energy in developing countries to power vehicles, buses, bikes, and more to provide affordable, sustainable transportation options.
Challenges and Barriers to Solar Power
Because of solar power’s variable nature, people must plan strategically to get the most out of it. Solar power may bring on some common obstacles, including:
Cost: In the case of developing nations, the initial installation cost will be a tough obstacle. With some help to afford it, the country will undoubtedly see a return on its investment.
Unideal Location: Even though we identified the presence of many developing nations near the equator, there are also many that aren’t. Those areas with limited sunlight won’t be able to harness the same amount of solar energy and, therefore, will lack some of the benefits.
Variable Power Supply: Solar power output is influenced by weather conditions. Extended periods of cloudy weather can hinder the amount of power produced. Areas with more unpredictable weather must be ready with backup power options.
Help Push Solar Power Forward in Developing Countries
We at Healing Waters International believe in the power of solar pumps and water filtration systems. We back our solar-powered clean water solutions to be the best-proven method of reaching the most remote communities. It’s the most reliable way to ensure our collective goal of clean water for all. You can help make a difference today by joining our staff, donating, or contacting us for more information on how you can help us.