Solar Power for Schools: A Student project Abroad to Build Systems in Rural Belize View Digital Media

Workshop Presentation
James Skon  

This project involves a college student project in Belize to build solar power systems for schools. One goal for the trip is to teach both the college students and the Belizeans about the values and concepts of solar power. Also we emphasize cultural engagement for our students, many of whom have never visited a developing country like Belize. Finally we want to teach, through example and experience, that volunteer efforts can make a difference in any context. Prior to departure students learn about the construction, creation, and operation of grid-tie solar power systems, as well training for safe work on rooftops and with electrical systems. While in Belize students collaborate with schools throughout Belize to install these systems. The students can install a 1-2KWh system in a single day, and we usually install 5 systems per trip. So far we have installed systems in 21 schools. We have also built a custom monitoring system to allow the schools to visit a web page on view the current and historical data on their production of electricity. This workshop will cover the process involved in creating such an experience. It includes how we made contacts with the government of Belize and developed those relationships, how we procure and pay for (raise money) the needed materials, how we train and prepare the students, how we assure the students safety, and other lessons we have learned. It is our hope that other colleges and universities can learn from our work and replicate such efforts.