SOLAR PROVEN AFFORDABLE

Perhaps the real question is, can we afford NOT to develop solar?

Indian project shows solar power affordable-U.N.
April 30, 2007 (Reuters via Yahoo News Asia)

WHO
The U.N. Environment Programme (UNEP) and its head, Achim Steiner, in conjunction with Canara Bank, Syndicate Bank, the Bank of Maharashtra and Sewa Bank

WHAT
Solar Home Systems, a $1.5 million UN-financed solar power project in India, now deemed successful, is expanding.

WHEN
The UNEP program moves toward the UN’s goal of lifting families from poverty by 2015.

WHERE
Karnataka state, southern India
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WHY
It is estimated the solar systems have reached 18,000 homes and provide 100,000 rural people unconnected to a power grid with a few hours of electricity, with which they can have light for homes in which children can study, light for businesses with which money can be earned, run a radio to become better informed or keep a fruit stand open at night without kerosene fumes spoiling produce.

QUOTES
- Steiner: "We are addressing the notion that renewable energy is irrelevant to poor countries and the poorer communities…"
- UN Statement: "The India programme's success has already inspired a sister effort in Tunisia…Similar programmes are upcoming for China, Indonesia, Egypt, Mexico, Ghana, Morocco and Algeria."