SunEdison Aims To Bring Electricity To 20 Million People By 2020

From a SunEdison press release:

SunEdison has announced plans to bring electricity to 20 million people in underserved communities around the world by 2020.

“[B]y applying a mix of new business models, new technology, and charitable donations, we are tackling the issue head on. We are committing to bringing electricity to one million people by the end of 2015, and are targeting to help 20 million people gain access to electricity by 2020,” said Ahmad Chatila, President and CEO of SunEdison.

Part of SunEdison’s technology strategy is the Outdoor Microstation, “a stand-alone power generation unit that provides renewable and reliable electricity for a variety of off-grid applications in hard-to-service remote areas.”

The new SunEdison Outdoor Microstation can power 25 households for five hours each night and takes just four to six hours to set up. (PRNewsFoto/SunEdison, Inc.)

The new SunEdison Outdoor Microstation can power 25 households for five hours each night and takes just four to six hours to set up. (PRNewsFoto/SunEdison, Inc.)

The Microstation, which consists of solar panels and lead acid batteries, “can be used to quickly and cost effectively power households and small businesses, illuminate public places, supply energy to clinics and health centers, power water pumps or irrigation systems, or provide electricity to telecommunications systems. These systems can be deployed quickly – in less than a day, a village that was dark the night before can experience electricity by sundown  As an added benefit, the Outdoor Microstation protects against rising and fluctuating diesel fuel costs.”

Two versions are available: “a 3,500 volt-amperes version and a 650 volt-amperes version. The Outdoor Microstation 3500 unit can provide power for a rural community of up to 25 households, including street lighting, for 5 hours each night. The 650 volt-amperes unit can provide electricity for up to 10 households for five hours each night. Both models are equipped with high capacity batteries that can provide three days of autonomy under any weather condition. The system is low maintenance and is designed to ensure steady operation under almost any conditions, thanks to its quality components and its rugged weatherproof design.”

To view the new SunEdison Outdoor Microstation video please visit: youtu.be/KEFlpqpE8NE.