The Benefits of Solar Energy in Rural Areas

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THE BENEFITS OF SOLAR ENERGY IN RURAL AREAS INF 103 COMPUTER LITERACY INSTRUCTOR PATTI VREELAND BRIAN CAYWOOD MARCH 18, 2013 PAGE 1 Solar energy is defined as any energy that is derived from the sun’s radiation. This is an inexhaustible source of energy that is relatively untapped. This technology has the ability to provide electricity to billions of people who do not have access to electrical power. These innovations can provide rural towns and villages around the world with a source of electricity. Solar power is becoming less expensive and more efficient thereby making it a viable alternative to fossil fuels. Did you know that one kerosene lamp, a common piece of lighting equipment in rural areas and developing countries, creates about one ton of carbon emissions every seven years? Many rural areas, especially in developing countries that use kerosene lamps and heaters for light and heat in their homes. That may not sound bad… until you consider there are approximately 2.5 billion people globally who have no access to any power source at any kind, therefore relying on kerosene and other fossil fuels for light and heat1. The lives of those who live without any electrical power is very different than what we know. There is no television, radio, internet or lighting after dark. There are no cell phones, tablets or computers sometimes for hundreds of miles around. If a person is injured or giving birth they must travel great distances to seek medical help. Many times drinking water is from shallow wells or rivers, without any means of purification. What we consider the basic necessities of life are relatively unknown in such rural areas. Solar power has the ability to change this in many places. To the private houses in these areas it can bring many changes. The ability to refrigerate food, and ability to have a cell phone or

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