Off Grid Solar System for an Urban Farm

Website

http://www.foodfielddetroit.com/

Overview of Idea

Our vision is to allow people who have a real need for energy be able to go off the grid on a low budget. We are working with Food Field, a local and organic urban farm that has accomplished much in 1 year, using nothing but manual labor. To expand, they need energy.

The Specifics: How will you use $2,500 to fuel social change through technology?

To combat economic downfall in Detroit, we wish to invest both in emerging technology and the environment. The money will be used to purchase components for the $8,000 (1.5 kw) solar system and back-up propane generator for Food Field. We currently have $5,500. By purchasing this system, Noah, the farm owner, will be able to have electricity for security lights, a fan for his hoop house, power tools, a cooler, Internet, and a kitchen. Also, installing this system will provide invaluable experience to Green Economy Leadership Training (Solardarity) participants in providing efficient, affordable, and renewable energy to communities, which, until now, have not had an alternative to the grid.

Discussion

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