Off-Grid solar technologies provide energy access as well as clean energy for communities and other consumers in sub-saharan Africa.
So far, the off-grid sector has provided new and enhanced access to energy for an estimated 50 million households translating to roughly 300 million people.
Although E-waste generated by the sector is low, investment in the industry’s growth over the long term may lead to a proliferation of e-waste in the long term.
To this end, there is need to enhance the sector’s reputation as a leader in environmental responsibility by curbing this expected menace.
With a focus on the off-grid sector in sub-Saharan Africa, funding via a $ 1 million grant is available to businesses with innovative approaches to e-waste management.
This program and funding is geared at supporting innovations in off-grid solar e-waste management and is made possible by the Global LEAP Awards.
The Global LEAP Awards is implemented through an international appliance energy efficiency and market development organisation.
Applicants could be a recycling or e-waste management companies who work (or plan to work with) the off-grid solar sector or solar off-grid solar distributors who want to pilot or expand end-of-life operations.
Individual awards will range from $50,000-$200,000 to e-Waste companies, solar power installers, and service providers.
Successful applicants will receive funding to support implementation of their proposed projects over a 12-month period.
Application deadline: 15 May 2019
As much as this sounds very innovative and comparatively objective, considerations for awarding grants of this nature should emphasis strong environmental justice and stewardship. By such commitment on the part of beneficiaries and putting in place measures for controlling and monitoring implementation, the menace will be tackle headlong.
Thanks so very much for sharing this beautiful opportunity.
Thanks for your response.
The approach to the creation of a solution to the challenge will be sustainable if strong systems and stewardship protocols are embedded.
Thank you for this great comment and feedback.