American obstetrics and gynecology doctor Laura Stachel took her practice to a state hospital in Zaria, Nigeria to combat so many females dying during childbirth. Dr. Stachel and her husband Hal Aronson, attempting to help power the hospital via solar energy, stumbled upon a new idea: a solar suitcase. The couple created a miniature prototype that fit into a suitcase in an effort to minimize customs issues generating 1 kW.
The small system had an immediate effect, with other smaller clinics asking for one in order to light the hospital, power suction machines, and other energy-needed operations. Stachel and Aronson realized that this could be a viable solution for health clinics throughout Nigeria with the solar suitcase containing less than $1,000 of gear. The benefits of this invaluable item saw the maternal mortality rate in the Zaria hospital drop by almost 70%. Stachel said, "It’s been a driving force for us doing this now for three years. This experience really changed our lives completely."
The basic components of the mechanism include a folding solar panel, a replaceable battery that may be acquired locally, a charge controller, and an array of sockets. The latest version of the suitcase includes headlamps, rechargeable solar lanterns, walk-talkies, and other items.
Alternative Energy Africa is trying to reduce its own carbon footprint in 2011. Ask about our electronic subscriptions and online marketing campaigns specially tailored for individual companies.