Renewable Energy

Problem

Our most common sources of energy are finite resources which are becoming overused, and often have an adverse effect on the atmosphere, soil and water. Moreover, many rural communities lack or have insufficient electricity supply and see no solution to this problem in the near future. This inhibits the ability of health centers to stock drugs and to use certain equipment, it limits educational opportunities, and it stunts the growth of businesses. Unfortunately, the technology required for renewable energy is often expensive and difficult to obtain.

Solar Panels installation
wind turbines

Objective

To increase awareness about renewable energy and integrated systems and facilitate the provision of renewable energy to rural communities in order to improve livelihoods and address climate change.

The BIOFARM has wind turbines, a mini hydroelectricity plant, solar panels, and two forms of bio digester. Students at the BIOFARM receive training on these energy sources. In addition, they attract interns and visiting students from across the country. Finally, schools and universities use the site as a location for field lectures, to improve the practical awareness of their students. SHUMAS is currently working to extend this technology beyond the BIOFARM to other rural areas to improve livelihoods in these areas.

  1. The SHUMAS RTC is currently the only location in Africa that has these four sources of renewable energy together in one place: wind turbines, solar panels, hydroelectricity, and biogas.
  2. SHUMAS through her RTC has installed renewable energy in 5 health centers, 3 schools and 3 communities who are now enjoying these power sources.
  • The RTC serves as a practical center for many schools and university where students are able to see in practice how renewable energy forms work.

 

Many renewable energy sources are expensive, making it difficult to expand the program.

 

  • SHUMAS will continue to propagate renewable energy and seek for more funding for its installation in rural communities especially in health facilities and schools.