Millions in Africa and Asia to receive solar energy access
Mauritius, 17 Feb – (ANA) - A Mauritius-based company has announced that it will provide access to low-cost solar energy for 33 million people in Africa and Asia for the next four years, as part of a United Nations-backed initiative to fight poverty.
The solar energy provider, ToughStuff, will expand access to low-cost, durable
solar panels and solar battery packs to low-income communities in 10 African
countries (Burundi, Côte d'Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC),
Ethiopia, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique, South Sudan, Zambia and Zimbabwe) and four
South Asian countries (Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Nepal).The company’s efforts are part of Business Call to Action (BCta), a global initiative supported by the UN Development Programme (UNDP) that encourages private sector efforts to develop inclusive business models that can have both commercial success and a positive impact in development. The company estimates that some $520 million will be saved by consumers by switching from kerosene or biomass fuel to solar energy. In addition, carbon emissions will be reduced by up to 1.2 million tons by 2016.
To provide its services, the company will rely on a network of village-level
entrepreneurs that are provided with training on how to sell, rent, or provide
access to affordable energy services. (ANA)
FA/ANA/17 February 2012----------