First ever Locally manufactured Solar Kiosk has been launched in Ghana to boost the socio-economic activities of people who lack access to power in the country.
The solar kiosk has been spearheaded by NGO SolarKiosk Ghana Limited in partnership with Energy Commission and JCS Investment Limited.
The NGO’s robust and multi-functional lightweight unit, which can be easily transported, is tailored for use in rural and Semi-urban communities, thus allowing mini businesses, such as small banks, restaurants, barbering shops and hair dressing salons, to operate efficiently in the local economy.
According to Solarkiosk Ghana Managing of Director, Ms Patricia Safo, the initiative aims to reduce carbon emissions and deforestation, and at the same time promoting sustainable energy alternatives.
Ms Safo has confirmed that 10 solar kiosks had been installed in four regions, and urged companies, such as the financial institutions, to adopt this module as it could be modified to suit different applications.
A solar kiosk can produce energy for itself, and the excess energy can be sold, while the canopy attached to it is capable to support and supply households and businesses with energy.
The solarkiosk, also known as the E-Hubb, will be a prototype that produces 2kw of power. It will also serve as an outlet for renewable energy products, services and solutions as well as supporting the affordable products and appliances, such as cooking stoves, which run on solar energy.
Mr. Andreas Spiess, Solarkiosk Chief Executive Officer (CEO), which is based in Germany, said the product has a satellite dish component, which can help supply energy to other businesses. Africa, with its abundant sunshine, derives only about 2% of its energy needs from sunshine, while Germany with less sunshine, produces about 20% solar energy.
African countries are urged to maximise the use of the natural resource, as the global demand for energy is continually soaring.
However, the major challenge facing the solar product is the initial financing of the unit, therefore the company is collaborating with the banks to give an upfront loans to people who want to buy the solar products, which is very efficient and lasts longer.
Seen as economic catalyst, developing Energy in Africa has been given top priority.