Intervida uses solar energy to bring electricity to a community of over 300 in El Salvador
Madrid (08/04/2008). Energy means having access to basic services and development. However, a third of the world’s population (approximately 2 billion people) lack access to modern energy services, according to data offered by the United Nations in the World Summit on Sustainable Development, which was held in Johannesburg in 2002. The majority of these people live in the poorest countries of the world, and especially in the rural areas.
In the rural area of El Salvador, 24% of households are still without electricity, according to the 2006 Multi-Purpose Household Survey. 13% of households still use kerosene and 10% candles, which poses a risk to the health and security of these families.
The lack of electricity condemns these families to a situation of disadvantage and inequality, which limits their opportunities for development. Having access to this service would enable them to study in the evening and nighttime hours, undertake more artisan and/or productive activities and improve their living conditions in general.
INTERVIDA is banking on solar energy to implement electrification projects in those communities where there is no electric service in this Central American country. This is the case of the community of Canton La Joya, in the municipality of San Vicente, where its more than 300 inhabitants have obtained electricity in recent months.
It is also worth highlighting that this community is located in a Protected Natural Area and that electrical systems based on renewable energies, such as solar energy produce, thanks to photovoltaic panels, clean electricity without noise, risk or contamination, and help to conserve the environment.
Now that there are more hours with light, the inhabitants can extend the working day and ths children can do their schoolwork at home without worrying about darkness, and they can even spend more time doing school and educational activities. Also thanks to electricity, the community can organize nighttime meetings, training workshops, cultural celebrations and other initiatives.
About FUNDACIÓN INTERVIDA
FUNDACIÓN INTERVIDA is a nonpartisan, nondenominational and completely independent development NGO in special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council. Its objective is to contribute to sustainable human development towards improving the living conditions of the most disadvantaged communities around the world. Currently, INTERVIDA is active in various countries in Latin America, Africa and Asia, offering its support to nearly five million people.
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