Project 2151 Household Solar Lighting in Zambia: The Biggest Impacts
Carbon Neutral Britain Project 2151 in Zambia, addresses energy poverty by providing solar lighting to families without access to electricity. By replacing kerosene lamps with solar-powered devices, this project not only reduces carbon emissions but also improves living conditions. It enhances educational opportunities for children and reduces household expenses, contributing to the overall well-being of the community.
Today, we take a deeper dive into the Biggest Impacts of this project.
Essential Energy Access for Millions
Our lives depend on access to energy. It’s something many of us don’t think twice about, but for 675 million people worldwide, including 590 million in sub-Saharan Africa, access to electricity is still not a reality. For too many families, relying on homemade kerosene lamps or candles is their only option. These dim sources of light not only limit what people can do after dark, especially in tropical regions with long nights, but they also pose serious dangers. Burning kerosene emits toxic black carbon, harms the eyes and lungs, and frequently leads to house fires. Moreover, the cost of purchasing fuel can be exorbitant, trapping millions in a cycle of poverty.
Solar Lights: A Life-Changing Clean Technology
Despite these challenges, Africa boasts immense solar power potential. This project is committed to harnessing this abundant and clean energy source to empower off-grid communities with access to safe and sustainable lighting solutions. So far, this project has already has distributed over 1.2 million pico solar lights across several African countries since 2021, with a significant focus on Zambia. In a country where around 90% of the rural population lacks electricity, our lights are making a tangible, positive difference in people’s lives.
Sustainable Development Goals: Measuring Impact
Project 2151 initiatives align closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
SDG 1: No Poverty
The solar lights help alleviate poverty by reducing household expenditures on fuel, candles, and batteries. In Zambia alone, families can save an average of $25 annually, empowering them to allocate their resources to other essential needs.
SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
By making solar lighting accessible to over 400,000 families in Zambia, our projects contribute to ensuring affordable and clean energy for all. Each purchase of a Verified Emission Reduction (VER) translates to approximately six families gaining access to clean and safe energy for the first time.
SDG 13: Climate Action
Through the displacement of traditional lighting sources, each light prevents the emission of at least 92kg of carbon annually. To date, this project has averted approximately 65,000 tons of CO2 emissions.
Social and Environmental Benefits: Beyond Illumination
The impact of Project 2151 extends beyond emissions reduction. From improved education outcomes to enhanced health and safety, the benefits are manifold. This project is dedicated to fostering local economic development by employing community members, including many women, as sales agents and partnering with local organizations for distribution and maintenance.
A Path to Progress for Energy and Climate Goals
When carbon finance is utilized with integrity, as demonstrated by Project 2151, the potential for positive change is immense. As the project continues to expand efforts across Zambia and into new countries where this project and products are most needed, the project accelerating the transition to net zero while simultaneously addressing energy poverty and advancing social equity.
By joining Carbon Neutral Britain and our supported projects, organizations can play a meaningful role in transforming the lives of thousands of families and communities while contributing to a more just and sustainable future.
