Practical Insights on Power for ICT4D Projects

solar power rural computer

ICT4D Rural Electrical Power Solutions

In many developing regions, the electrical power supply is erratic. Power swings, dips, blackouts, and brownouts can disrupt the operation of ICT devices, limiting their usefulness. In addition, many rural and under-served areas do not have access to any type of gird electricity.

Here are off-grid rural electrical power solutions used in ICT4D projects to support computer hardware infrastructure. These solutions play a crucial role in enabling the deployment of ICT4D initiatives in areas with limited access to traditional electricity grids.

1. Batteries

12 Volt Batteries are a popular off-grid power solution. These batteries are rechargeable and can be used to store energy from solar panels or other renewable sources. Deep cycle and lithium batteries are the most common solutions.

2. Renewable Energy Sources

In the context of ICT4D projects, various renewable energy sources such as solar panels, wind turbines, and hydroelectric power are utilized as off-grid solutions for rural communities to supply electrical power for information and communication technologies in remote areas.

3. Microgrid Systems

Microgrid systems are another off-grid power solution used in ICT4D projects. These systems are interconnected collections of loads and distributed energy sources, including wind, solar, diesel generators, and energy storage.

More ICT4D Power Examples

Innovations in Solar Power and Solar Panel Cleaning

Innovations in Solar Power and Solar Panel Cleaning

Published on: Aug 02 2009 by Wayan Vota - 1 Comment
It’s our learned opinion that the best power source for rural ICT implementations is solar panels feeding deep-cycle batteries. But solar is expensive, $10-14...
Less Watts for Better Computing

Less Watts for Better Computing

Published on: Jul 21 2009 by Wayan Vota - Comments Off on Less Watts for Better Computing
When you’re working in rural areas, electricity is often very scarce. Your only source of power may be a battery array, which may cost you $10-per-watt to...
Solar Power Calculator for Africa

Solar Power Calculator for Africa

Published on: May 06 2009 by Wayan Vota - 1 Comment
Matt Berg, a longtime friend of Inveneo, has published his off-grid solar calculator for public use. Its an excel-based toolkit to help with cost and design estimates...
G4S Courier Service goes Fully Wireless with KDN

G4S Courier Service goes Fully Wireless with KDN

Published on: May 01 2009 by Andris Bjornson - Comments Off on G4S Courier Service goes Fully Wireless with KDN
How far can you take wireless technologies in an urban environment? Kenya Data Networks, has designed a fully independent shipping center for G4S, a Kenyan courier...
« Newer Posts