Solution

Low-cost solar panel rotator via "H20 Clock"

This solution addresses inefficiency of fixed solar panels and overly technical rotating panels in the world for the impoverished without access to electricity

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Problem Description

This solution was created to provide a simple, non-technical way for solar panels to be rotated throughout the day. Rotating solar panels has long been identified as a way to maximize solar absorption. But most current methods for this require either overly-technical and expensive tracking machines. This solution provides a ultra affordable and intuitive physical solution to this problem. The SunSaluter (the name of the tracking product and heart of this solution) ultimately allows for more cost effective solar arrays, which can be the difference in feasibility for the poorest and most needy families across the world. The SunSaluter also solves the problem of clean water, which is often just as pressing as affordable energy. Because the solar tracker is the actual water filtration device (see more below), the cost of the entire system remains low. Two problems are solved at once.

Building Blocks

Story

The SunSaluter was invented by Eden Full in 2008. Since then it has spun off into its own organization. The SunSaluter has won the Westly Prize, the Mashable-UN Foundation Startups for Social Good Challenge, second prize at the Postcode Lottery Green Challenge, and the grand prize at the Staples-Ashoka Youth Social Entrepreneurship Challenge. It also was the winner of MIT ClimateColab's "Energy-Water Nexus 2015" challenge and the Grand Prize in 2015.

It has so far been deployed in 16 countries and directly impacted the lives of 8000 people.

Sustainable Development Goals

On September 25th 2015, countries adopted a set of goals to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all as part of a new sustainable development agenda. Each goal has specific targets to be achieved over the next 15 years. This solution covers the following goals:

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Video

Social Progress Index

  • Water and Sanitation - Can people drink water and keep themselves clean without getting sick?
  • Ecosystem Sustainability - Is this society using its resources so they will be available to future generations?

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    Resources

    Contributed By

    • Eden Full Goh, SunSaluter

    Solution Stage

    One of the 7 stages of an innovation. Learn more
    STAGE SPECIALIST SKILLS REQUIRED EXAMPLE ACTIVITIES RISK LEVEL AND HANDLING FINANCE REQUIRED KINDS OF EVIDENCE GENERATED GOAL
    Developing and implementing5
    Strong leadership, management, implementation skills
    • Policy design
    • Programme design
    • Business modelling
    • Organisational design
    • Prepare for some adaptation to implementation
    MEDIUM
    • Programme funds, equity, loans, grants
    HIGH
    A robust and detailed case developed through formal evaluation and evidence gathering – use of a control group to isolate impact
    An implemented and sustainable innovation

    Submitted By

    Bryan Lehrer74310022 copy

    Key Details

    Social Progress Index
    Water and SanitationEcosystem Sustainability
    Sustainable Development Goals
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    Activity