ENVIRONMENT | Protecting our natural resources
17 December 2008
U.S.-Funded Project Designs Low-Cost Lamp for Developing Nations
University students investigate long-life lamps powered by renewable energy
Littleton, Colorado — Students at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) in New York state are designing an inexpensive, self-powered lamp for developing countries, where nearly 2 billion people are estimated to lack electricity.
Their work is supported by a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in its People, Prosperity and the Planet (P3) national design competition. (See “U.S. College Students Offer Innovations in Global Sustainability.)
Without electricity, lighting usually is provided by fuel-based lamps, such as kerosene lanterns and candles. These lights are inefficient, potentially dangerous and produce potentially harmful byproducts and greenhouse gas emissions, Robert Stevens, an RIT assistant professor, told America.gov.
RIT students are developing a new lighting system based on LED (light-emitting diode) technology that is often used in electronic equipment. Recent research advances have produced LEDs that require very little energy to generate bright, steady white light.
“An LED lamp will eliminate the high costs, unhealthy air and fire hazards associated with fuel-based lighting systems while providing a higher-quality light for reading and working," Stevens said.
Research has shown that increased educational opportunities made possible by electric lighting can lead to higher lifetime earnings, health benefits and improved public safety, he said. Artificial lighting also can extend the potential work day so families can engage in income-generating activities in the evening or early morning.
RIT students plan to obtain information from residents of a developing country, such as Haiti, to identify the most desirable lamp functions. Then, a team of industrial, electrical and mechanical engineering students will investigate potential sources of renewable energy for the lamps: solar power, human power via a cranking mechanism, or a combination of the two. These sources could power the lamps directly or be used to recharge lamp batteries.
The lamps will be designed to last at least 10 years with minimal maintenance needs, and to cost $10 to $20. Students hope to develop a working prototype lamp by April 2009.
“The project will also investigate how local businesses in target countries could produce and market the lamps, and create job opportunities and strengthen economies there,” Stevens said.
