DIY solar lantern Locally made in kenya

Solar Energy:

Solar energy is an abundant and environmentally friendly source of power. Once a solar panel is installed, the operational costs are minimal since no fuel is required to generate a substantial amount of energy. In contrast, a single kerosene wick consumes approximately 80 liters of fuel and emits over 250 kilograms of carbon dioxide per year.

To assist individuals residing in remote areas with limited access to electricity, we have developed an affordable solar light bulb as a safer alternative to the harmful kerosene lamp. We have previously published an Instructable detailing the construction of this project, which has gained popularity online and proven beneficial to people worldwide. As a result, we have decided to revamp the lamp.

In this Instructable, I will provide a comprehensive overview of the entire design process for my DIY solar lamp, including PCB design, enclosure design, and assembly.

We aim to make the solar lamp accessible to a diverse range of individuals residing in remote villages who lack access to clean energy. Our primary focus is to offer an affordable price point that accommodates the financial constraints of these communities. By doing so, we strive to ensure that clean energy becomes attainable for everyone, regardless of their economic circumstances.

Here is a list of the supplies needed for the project:

1-Solar Panel - 2V (available on Amazon)

2- IC QX5252F (available on Amazon)

3- 33uH Inductor (available on Amazon or Banggood)

4- 8mm Straw Hat LED (available on Amazon or Banggood)

5-Switch (available on Aliexpress or Banggood)

6-DC Jack (available on Amazon or Banggood)

7-AA NiMh Battery (available on Amazon or Banggood)

8-Battery Spring Plates (available on Amazon)

9-Heatshrink Tubing ( Amazon / Banggood )

10-JST male-female connectors ( Amazon / Banggood )

11-PCB ( PCBWay)

12-1W Solar Panel ( 3 - 5V ) ( Amazon )

13-Spray Paint - Bright Chrome ( Amazon )

Please note that the mentioned supplies can be purchased from various online platforms such as Amazon, Banggood, and Aliexpress.

The solar lamp offers several benefits:

Reduction of Local Air Pollution and Energy Conservation: By utilizing the solar lamp, there is a significant decrease in local air pollution since it operates without emitting harmful pollutants. Additionally, it promotes energy conservation by harnessing clean and renewable solar energy.

Alternative Business Model and Economic Empowerment: The solar lamp project introduces an alternative business model that has the potential to enhance the rural economy. By creating technology-based livelihood opportunities, it empowers individuals in rural areas and strengthens their economic prospects.

Affordable Access to Solar Lamps: The solar lamp initiative aims to provide access to affordable lighting solutions. This ensures that individuals in remote locations can acquire solar lamps at a reasonable price, enabling them to benefit from clean and sustainable energy sources.

Our goal is to make the solar lamp accessible to a wide range of audiences residing in remote villages who currently lack access to clean energy sources. We strive to offer the solar lamp at an affordable price point, ensuring that it is within reach for individuals in economically disadvantaged areas. By doing so, we aim to address the energy access gap and provide a sustainable solution to those in need.

Solar Lamp Components

The solar lamp functions as a standalone Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) system, comprising four essential components:

1-Solar Panel: Converts solar energy into electrical energy.

2-Controller: Manages the battery charging process and drives the load (LED).

3-Battery: Stores the electrical energy generated by the solar panel.

4- Load (LED): Delivers the desired light output for illumination purposes.

These components work together harmoniously to enable the solar lamp to efficiently harness solar power and provide sustainable lighting.