Solar for Education Program
Our “Solar for Education” Program is focused on using solar technology to improve access to reliable low-cost solar electricity in schools and to provide opportunities for students to learn about the fast-growing solar industry. Hybrid Grid-Tied PV systems can reduce the electrical consumption from the electrical utility and related expenses of schools so that more funds are available for educational resources. The hybrid inverter with a lithium battery bank allows the system to operate during power outage so that classes can continue without interruption. In the process of implementing and using solar it gives local students an opportunity to learn about solar in an educational setting. EAF has structured study abroad course in collaboration with the UMass Lowell’s “Center for Energy Innovation” held as an Alternative Spring Break week. This course helps university students gain exposure to the field of solar in developing countries.
Entrepreneur Support Program
EAF identifies opportunities to support leading solar entrepreneurs through cost-shared, performance-based contracts that strengthen local businesses, create jobs, and build long-term technical capacity. The program also engages international graduate students from New England universities in emerging energy-access initiatives, preparing them to contribute to energy access in their home countries.
EAF believes that meeting the energy needs of the more than one billion people without access requires expanding local energy enterprises. By supporting entrepreneurial and technical talent around the world, EAF helps build the delivery capacity needed to advance sustainable energy access.