This is the World's First Refugee Camp to Be Powered by Solar Energy
Ellen Smith — May 23, 2017 — Eco
References: gulf-times & huffingtonpost
20,000 Syrian refugees living in a refugee camp in Azraq, Jordan, will now have access to electricity after the establishment of the world's first solar-powered refugee camp.
The Azraq refugee camp, located in the desert region of Northern Jordan has had sporadic access to power since the camp's 2014 construction. The $4.5 million project which was funded by IKEA, provides each family within the larger community the opportunity to connect to a fridge, a TV, lights, fans, and a place to charge their cell phones, which is vital for keeping in touch with family overseas.
Kelly T. Clements, UNHCR deputy high commissioner said, "Lighting up the camp is not only a symbolic achievement; it provides a safer environment for all camp residents, opens up livelihoods opportunities, and gives children the chance to study after dark.”
The investment in renewable energy will see $1.5 million in annual savings, which can be used to provide further aid, and will continue to function should funding ever run out.
The Azraq refugee camp, located in the desert region of Northern Jordan has had sporadic access to power since the camp's 2014 construction. The $4.5 million project which was funded by IKEA, provides each family within the larger community the opportunity to connect to a fridge, a TV, lights, fans, and a place to charge their cell phones, which is vital for keeping in touch with family overseas.
Kelly T. Clements, UNHCR deputy high commissioner said, "Lighting up the camp is not only a symbolic achievement; it provides a safer environment for all camp residents, opens up livelihoods opportunities, and gives children the chance to study after dark.”
The investment in renewable energy will see $1.5 million in annual savings, which can be used to provide further aid, and will continue to function should funding ever run out.
Trend Themes
1. Renewable Energy - The establishment of the world's first solar-powered refugee camp highlights the trend of utilizing renewable energy sources in various industries.
2. Off-grid Solutions - The use of solar power in the Azraq refugee camp demonstrates the trend of implementing innovative off-grid solutions in remote locations.
3. Humanitarian Tech - The solar-powered refugee camp showcases the trend of using technology for humanitarian purposes, addressing the needs of marginalized communities.
Industry Implications
1. Clean Energy - The renewable energy trend presents disruptive innovation opportunities in the clean energy industry, such as providing power solutions for remote communities.
2. Humanitarian Aid - The use of off-grid solutions in refugee camps presents disruptive innovation opportunities in the humanitarian aid industry, improving living conditions for displaced communities.
3. Technology - The incorporation of solar power in the camp highlights disruptive innovation opportunities in the technology industry, particularly in developing sustainable solutions for marginalized populations.
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