In our society of luxury and excess it is hard to comprehend that about one third of the world's population has no access to electricity. Fuel wood, agricultural residues, human power and animals continue to be the primary energy resources for millions of rural families in developing countries.
To increase agricultural productivity and improve the quality of life in rural communities it is important to find alternative sources of energy that are both economical and environmentally friendly. A recent FAO publication, ‘Solar photovoltaics for sustainable agriculture and rural development’, suggests that photovoltaic solar energy systems could provide a solution. The publication does observe that photovoltaic solar systems are still relatively costly and therefore are not "a panacea for solving all rural poverty problems". However, they have potential to be helpful and effective in certain specific areas.

‘Solar energy systems, together with wind energy and other renewable energy applications, are the only technically viable solution to deliver the energy required by isolated rural communities ... Small amounts of energy can make a tremendous difference, making it possible to improve rural lives, enhance agricultural productivity and create new opportunities to earn income.’ Gustavo Best, FAO Senior Energy Coordinator.

At the moment Solar power is used primarily for household lighting, radio and television. In developing countries solar energy can provide lighting, creating extra time for productive activities. The extra light allows women to perform activities such as sewing, basket-making and handicrafts and lets children continue studying, things that would have previously been constricted to daylight hours.

The potential of solar energy is relatively untapped in increasing agricultural productivity and rural development in general. Solar energy systems could significantly improve health care, education, water supply for consumption, irrigation and livestock, food preparation and refrigeration, veterinary services and communication; and tourism. It also allows other businesses and activities to develop i.e. restaurants, cinemas, technical and artistic workshops, by powering tools, kitchen equipment, phones and other appliances.

To fully exploit the potential of solar energy, several institutional changes must be made with in the energy sector. Rural and agricultural development banks will need to make solar energy systems eligible for loans and the systems must be made more attractive to private investors. Despite the changes that need to be implemented, solar energy systems are being used to provide electricity in rural areas around the world, where ‘their smaller, modular character makes them particularly suitable for remote, dispersed populations with low and scattered energy demands’.

Posted under Articles, Gas & Electricity, Renewable Energy