Energy Efficient Technolologies
In 2007 the Blum Center for Developing Economies initiated a portfolio of initiatives that focuses on enhancing the welfare of the poor in developing regions through the development, testing and diffusion of low-cost, energy related, technologies that meet real needs, emphasize energy efficiency and minimize negative environmental impacts such as CO2 emissions.
Improved Cooktoves Production & Dissemination
A set of three initiatives focus on the development and dissemination of improved wood burning cook stoves for Africa. These are being designed to replace the highly inefficient traditional “three stone” technique for cooking commonly practiced throughout the continent. In addition to significant economic and environmental impacts, one of the three initiatives has a decidedly humanitarian side. Working in the Darfur region of Sudan, the stoves are being designed for manufacture and dissemination in refugee camps – situations where the necessity for women to venture outside the protective limits of the camps to seek fuelwood frequently leads to rape, violence and even death. (Right: Worker at pilot factory in Khartoum displays first of Berkeley-Darfur stoves produced. Credit: Brian Tachibana)
• Fuel Efficient Stoves for Darfur Refugees
• Fuel Efficient, Cost Effective Cook Stoves for Rural Zambia
LED Lighting Initiative
The first project receiving funding in this portfolio involves scientific and market studies in support of efforts to replace inefficient, costly, unhealthy and environmentally unsound kerosene lighting with low-cost, energy efficient LED (light emitting diode) lights. Implemented in collaboration with UC’s Lawrence Berkeley National Lab and Humboldt State University, the initiative has launched activities aimed at understanding issues of product quality, durability, consumer acceptance, and willingness to pay. (Right: CU PowerPack Lantern-LED. Credit: Evan Mills)
• LED Lighting Replacement Project
Carbon Market Offsets
Also under way is a project designed to spur the further development of voluntary markets for carbon offsets. The initiative is designed to provide business support and brokering services to link development projects that reduce greenhouse emissions with buyers who value the social and economic co-benefits. Purchases of these carbon offsets will go directly to clean development projects that improve community, social and economic conditions. (Right: Children in Bitereko Village, Uganda. Credit: Mira Inbar)