Solar Energy for Rural Madagascar Schools: A Pilot Implementation by University of Nebraska Engineers Without Borders-USA

Abstract

A pilot photovoltaic system was constructed in Kianjavato, Madagascar by a team from the University of Nebraska Engineers Without Borders-USA Student Chapter. This project represents an integrated approach to energy supply, education and natural resource conservation. The system supplies power to ten 13 W fluorescent tubes in a primary school classroom for the purpose of extending public school hours into the evening for adult education. The project was implemented in partnership with a Malagasy non-governmental organization, the Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership. Future monitoring data will determine the outcome of the project and aid in the design of additional installations in the community.

Impacts Generated by a Large-Scale Solar Photovoltaic Power Plant Can Lead to Conflicts between Sustainable Development Goals: A Review of Key Lessons Learned in Madagascar

“…In this context, the private operator submits to the legal provisions of the country and possibly to the provisions of the international economic group to which it belongs. As emphasized by the IFDD (Francophone Institute for Sustainable Development) [98], "here, environmental assessment is replaced by the concept of environmental and social governance (ESG) of companies a proactive form of environmental and social self-governance".…”

“…Finally, the plant has not formalized its social approach in a formal framework consisting of a real action plan. Also, its level of social acceptance is moderate-bearing in mind that solar technology is nevertheless generally well accepted in rural areas compared to other energy systems [98]. Secondly, for many residents, in addition to access to a better telephone network, the most visible impact for the populations is the improvement of security around the site.…”

“…Secondly, for many residents, in addition to access to a better telephone network, the most visible impact for the populations is the improvement of security around the site. It should also be remembered that in the sustainability analysis of the installation, the authors included the potential theft of panels "sustainability was defined by social acceptance, environmental harm, education, theft potential, and scalability" [98]. Thirdly, as far as training is concerned, in addition to the training on the operation of the inverters, employees have developed their skills more on the job during operation than within theoretical training: "everyone brought their own training" said one of the employees.…”