World Environment Day: Africa Sustainable Energy

Summary

The video highlights renewable energy initiatives in central Kenya and Namibia. In Kenya's Embu District, a community harnesses hydro power to provide electricity to 56 homes, reducing reliance on wood and kerosene while promoting sustainability. In Namibia, where 70% of energy is imported, solar energy projects empower rural villages by installing solar panels, improving access to electricity. These efforts not only address energy shortages but also promote environmental health and economic development, showcasing how local communities can leverage natural resources for sustainable living.

Takeaways

• 🌧️ The Embu District in central Kenya has abundant water resources due to high annual rainfall and runoff from Mount Kenya.
• ⚡ A community in Chuka, Kenya has established a hydro-powered turbine to provide electricity to 56 homes.
• 🔋 The current capacity of the turbine is 20 kW, with plans to double this to benefit approximately 150 homes.
• 🌳 Traditionally, the community relied on wood and kerosene for energy, leading to deforestation and health issues from smoke.
• ♻️ Small hydro power plants offer a sustainable energy solution and improve access to electricity for underserved communities.
• 🇳🇦 In Namibia, energy supply is critical, with 70% imported from South Africa, causing reliance on coal and frequent power outages.
• ☀️ Namibia is focusing on solar energy to supplement its electricity needs, utilizing its abundant sunshine.
• 🏡 Solar panels are being installed in homes and public buildings in the village of Oto, providing reliable lighting and power for appliances.
• 🤝 UNDP collaborates with the Namibian government to fund and manage solar energy projects, enhancing energy access.
• 🔄 The initiatives in both Kenya and Namibia illustrate the importance of renewable energy in promoting sustainable development and improving living conditions.

Q & A

What is the primary energy source for the communities in Embu District, Kenya?

The primary energy sources have traditionally been wood and kerosene, which contribute to deforestation and health issues.

How much power does the hydro-powered turbine currently provide in Embu District?

The hydro-powered turbine currently provides 20 kW of power to 56 homes.

What is the expected maximum capacity of the hydro-powered turbine in Embu District?

The community hopes to increase the turbine's capacity to 40 kW, which would benefit approximately 150 homes.

What environmental benefits do small hydropower plants offer in Kenya?

They help reduce reliance on wood and kerosene, thereby preserving forests and improving respiratory health by providing clean energy.

What energy import dependency does Namibia face?

Namibia imports 70% of its energy from South Africa, leading to challenges in ensuring electricity access for its population.

What are the main energy sources currently used in Namibia?

Namibia relies on a hydropower plant in the north and a coal-burning power plant in Windhoek.

What issue does Namibia face regarding coal energy?

Power outages are common, and the cost of coal is increasing, making it a less viable energy source.

What renewable resource does Namibia have in abundance?

Namibia has abundant sunshine, which can be harnessed for solar energy.

How has UNDP contributed to solar energy adoption in Namibia?

UNDP has been helping to finance and manage solar energy projects, including the installation of solar panels in homes and public buildings.

What is the main objective of the solar energy project in Oto, Namibia?

The main objective is to help people finance the installation of solar energy systems in their homes and install panels in public buildings like schools and health clinics.