Implementation of Solar Technologies in the Development of Rural, Remote and Sub urban Communities

Abstract

This case study describes a model household in which a number of simple solar technologies are utilized to provide for the daily household needs of electricity, clean water, cooling and heating. The model was named-Solar Home‖. A-Solar Home‖ is primarily suited to rural, remote and sub urban low income communities that suffer from lack of access to grid electricity and clean quality water. However, with the increased demand on energy in urban communities connected to grid electricity, the-Solar Home‖ can serve as a practical solution in the near future. The case study presents the results of the studies carried out on a pilot scale Solar Home project built in the Solar Energy Department, NRC, Egypt. The solar system designs used in the pilot Solar Home project are practical, easy to install and maintain, as well as inexpensive. The systems would serve two purposes; domestic services and some income generating activities. The case study discusses the performance of the selected solar systems under actual climatic conditions of Egypt, their costs. The case study will detail recommendations for the optimum implementation of the suggested systems and the needed training to use those systems. Finally the case study will list some of the lessons learned and the challenges faced during implementation and operation.