The Increase project, a two-years project funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and implemented by AVSI, aims to improve and to accelerate the economic development of rural communities by using productively the solar energy in Tauane and Balama District.
“ Light is energy and energy means future. In Tauane few people can afford solar panels to light their homes or charge their devices”
Josè Zacaria, resident of Tauane.
The Increase project: more than just energy
The Increase project goes beyond a focus on energy. Employing a comprehensive approach that includes water management, it ensures that communities not only gain access to clean energy but also to clean water. Considering the fragile context of Cabo Delgado, the project seeks to bolster social cohesion for sustainable impact.
Therefore, the Increase project centres around three main pillars:
- Enhanced energy and water systems: By installing two solar and drinking water systems, the project guarantees communities access to clean energy and water, thereby promoting health, hygiene, and an improved quality of life.
- Economic Development: The project creates income-generating opportunities by providing training in renewable energy and water management for 20 individuals, fostering self-reliance and community empowerment.
- Strengthening Social Cohesion: Through promoting dialogue and collaboration between displaced and host communities, the project aims to forge bonds of understanding and mutual respect.
A innovative solar approach: transitioning to a multipurpose system
One of the innovative approaches of the Increase project is the transition to a multi-use solar energy system (water supply, lighting and business...).
AVSI is working on the establishment of two multipurpose kiosks, where solar energy will not only powers water pumps, but also provides electricity for various purposed, such us recharging phones, operating machinery for business and illuminating to facilitate evening study sessions for students.
By maximizing the utilization of solar energy, these kiosks will serve as community gathering points and promote sustainable development.
The International Day of Light
The International Day of Light is an annual, global initiative celebrating light and the role it plays in science, culture and art, education, and sustainable development. Communities worldwide participate in activities that demonstrate how light in all its applications can help achieve the goals of UNESCO – education, equality, and peace.
Furthermore, the celebration aims to promote the importance of lighting technology and the need for access to light and energy infrastructure in sustainable development, and for improving quality of life in the developing world.
Additionally, the day serves as a platform to raises awareness that technologies and design can play an important role in the achievement of greater energy efficiency, in particular by limiting energy waste, and in the reduction of light pollution.
