Solar Powered Laptops for Entrepreneurs
Solar units are being supplied to the poorest of the poor around the world from India to Africa, rural China to Bangladesh. But here in California this simple solution to energy costs for the poor is not being used in even 1% of low income houses. After the cost of housing, the next major financial worry of the poor is having their gas or lights shut off, frequently they have to choose between paying the light bill and buying food.
It has been proven worldwide that to benefit from solar you do not need to spend thousands of dollars on huge solar units. There are hundreds affordable solar energy solutions. A small 50-75 watt panel and a deep cycle battery can provide enough stored energy to provide light in 3 rooms and power small appliances such as fans, tvs, radios, cd players. Small portable solar products can supply enough energy to provide for daily cooking (solar ovens), hot water for a quick bath or shower, and run a lap top, sewing machine, or other tools for home based businesses. Small solar water heaters can provide hot water for cooking, cleaning, drinking and bathing. Solar attic fans can be used to cool the house in summer and circulate warm air in winter. Solar tubes can provide interior light throughout the day in summer and winter at no cost and can be used in low income apartment buildings to light interior hallways making them safer for residents and visitors alike. Unfortunately these products are not being marketed to the poor the people who can benefit most from the technology.
