Case study
In 2003, the American NGO SELF (Solar Electric Light Fund) embarked on an ambitious project with the Jigawa State governor, to bring solar power to this remote, un-electrified, desert region of northern Nigeria. Each of three villages in Jigawa State were equipped with solar electric systems, which provided power to improve lives in a number of areas:
- Water pumps - providing clean water from deep wells and reducing the time spent by women walking miles every day to fetch water of questionable quality.
- Schools - electricity allowed for the use of computers and lighting meant night time adult literacy classes could take place.
- Health clinic - electricity enabled refrigeration of lifesaving vaccines and lighting for medical procedures.
- Individual homes - lighting replaced the need for the hazardous use of kerosene lamps.
- Street lights - mean that people can open night markets and feel safe in the evenings.
- Micro-enterprise centre housing six small businesses, providing electricity for tailors and barbers, letting them make use of electric equipment.
Solar home systems were bought with micro-credit, allowing families to pay for systems over time, and local technicians were trained in solar installation and maintenance. Micro-credit and comprehensive training have been critical components to the success and sustainability of the Nigeria project.
For more information see http://www.self.org/nigeria.asp