Eden Full, a 19-year old from Calgary, made a simple and inexpensive invention which resulted in increasing energy efficiency of solar panels by 40% and can be applicable in places throughout Africa. The solar panels are perpendicular to the sun’s rays and driven by simple bi-metallic strips that expand during the day and contract after sundown.
The SunSaluter costs less compared to motor-driven tracking systems and can be built using simple components available in developing countries. "I conducted a trip to Kenya last summer where I was able to build the SunSaluter using locally available materials, and I was able to work with people in the villages to build this project together," Full said. "I think this is really important, because if you want a technology to be sustainable — and you really want it to be viable and address the needs in the market — you’re going to have to be able to first go there and understand what is needed."
Full tested her invention in Kenya’s Mpala village, and continues to receive monthly emails from locals updating the status of the SunSaluter. "What’s really going to be the next step is finalizing a prototype and filing for a provisional patent," said Full. "I’d really like to license the technology out there and just deploy as many of these projects as possible, whether it be in North America or in Africa.”
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