The technology that uses light energy from the sun to generate electricity – Solar Electricity –  has been around for approximately 179 years and was originally discovered by a French scientist called Edmond Becquerel somewhere around 1839 or so.  Although the first silicon photovoltaic (PV) cell was already invented by Bell Labs in 1954, it was only in the last 20 years that advancements in solar technology have made it an appealing choice for energy users worldwide, as it’s cleaner and cheaper than electricity from fossil fuels.

As part of our mandate, Project 90 advocates for low carbon actions in energy usage and, since South Africa is so well positioned  to take advantage of our abundant sunlight, it was the perfect choice for Project 90 to endorse this technology.  Solar energy  has the potential to change the way we engage with energy going forward and is a integral part of the movement towards a #JustEnergyTransition in South Africa. 

In 2016, Project 90 developed a youth leadership / renewable energy project called “Playing with Solar”, with the intention of teaching young South Africans about solar technology where they could actually gain hands-on experience in solar power.  

Project 90 by 2030 partnered with the Cape Town Environmental Education Trust (CTEET) to create a project that included CTEET’s Conservation Leadership Programme – YouLead Lite.  The first project to come from this partnership was an initiative to build and install 7 Solar Light Boxes at CTEET’s camp in the Rondevlei Nature Reserve near Muizenberg, Cape Town.  The light boxes, once built, would provide a sustainable lighting solution for the camp, and would also complement the rustic feel at this stunning venue.  

Project 90 by 2030 engaged Engineers Without Borders (EWB) from UCT, who partnered with Project 90 and mentored the young group through the assembly of the Solar Light Boxes as well as their installation at the tented camp.  

The practical sessions included basic solar electrical circuit training, wiring of the circuit boards and an in-depth understanding of the solar energy components.  Each Solar Light Box was assembled by a group of 2 young learners and these boxes now provide electricity for up to four low wattage LED light bulbs in the tents. 

This Solar Lightbox installation represents a tangible legacy from the youth who are currently part of the successful Conservation Leadership Programme at CTEET and it is our hope that this experience will ignite the fire in tomorrow’s leaders.