SSL - A big step out of the poverty trap for the BOP!

Abstract

In this paper we discuss the real cost of fuel based lighting in the developing world and in comparison the incredible wealth creating prospects associated with safe, healthy and affordable solid state lighting (SSL), based on renewable energy (RE) and Micro Credit (MC). SSL technology and a number of SSL projects promoted by the Light Up The World Foundation (LUTW) are presented. A multi stake holder approach for the accelerated adoption of SSL in the developing world is proposed in order that those at the Base of the Pyramid (BOP) can get onto the first rung of the ladder of economic progress. The potential contributions of SSL to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and the fundamental importance of MC are discussed in detail. The wholesale adoption of SSL by the BOP would be an added 'incentive' for the Top and Middle of the Pyramid to also adopt SSL wholesale. A Bottom Up plus a Top Down adoption of SSL can help combat climate change. LUTW promotes SSL systems for the benefit of the world's poor, and its strategy is in line with the Jeffrey Sachs plan for the developed world to help the developing world pull itself up by its own bootstraps.