The growth potential of the solar PV market in developing countries is immense. But to reach its potential, products need to be well adapted and affordable for even the lowest income consumer. From an outstanding field of manufacturers, PV system integrators, and social entrepreneurs, the Solar for All Design Contest has brought together some of the world’s most innovative technical solutions for providing sustainable and reliable energy solutions to customers without access to the electricity grid.
The applications demonstrate groundbreaking advancements in the modularity and scalability of PV solutions for the off-grid market, as well as advances in payment and financing schemes, and innovative new strategies for market outreach and distribution.
The products range from lanterns, pico solar and solar home systems, mini-grids and hybrid solutions, all targeted at addressing the needs of low income communities.
From 58 companies and organizations from 29 countries, one winner has been selected to receive the First Prize of the Solar for All Design Contest, an investment of $250,000 from the Deutsche Bank Americas Foundation. The runner up will receive €10,000 from Good Energies Foundation, and all shortlisted finalists will be eligible for potential investment from the Solar for All Investment Fund to be launched in 2011.
