Community for Human Development (Lusaka, Zambia): Appropriate and Sustainable Energy
In the Mumbwa District, only around 30% of the people are connected to the National Grid. The vast majority, therefore, must find alternative energy sources for their cooking, lighting and heating needs. Some have experimented with solar power but it is far too expensive for the majority. Currently, the remaining people depend on fire wood for their cooking and heating needs. This has two negative effects: deforestation and indoor pollution. In some cases Kerosene is used for lighting purposes. The challenge is to find the most appropriate energy solution for cooking, lighting and heating- suitable to the poor. The student may wish to tackle one or all of these needs. Suggested technologies include the use of biogas digesters, more affordable solar or wind powered technologies.