Bringing Light to Sumba with APNIC Foundation Support
The PowerWells Foundation is proud to announce its latest initiative, the “Light to Sumba” Project, made possible through the generous support of the APNIC Foundation’s Information Society Innovation Fund (ISIF Asia). This groundbreaking project addresses two pressing global challenges—energy poverty and electronic waste by repurposing discarded lithium-ion batteries into small-scale solar systems and WiFi hubs for underserved communities in Sumba, Indonesia.
Addressing Energy Poverty and the Digital Divide
Electricity is a cornerstone of modern life, yet over 675 million people globally live without it. In Sumba, Indonesia, this lack of electricity severely limits internet adoption, perpetuating cycles of information poverty and economic stagnation. The "Light to Sumba" project aims to break this cycle by providing reliable electricity and internet access to rural communities.
By repurposing electronic waste into sustainable energy solutions, PowerWells not only reduces environmental harm but also empowers communities with tools for education, communication, and economic growth.
Project Highlights
Over 18 months, the "Light to Sumba" project will deliver transformative impacts across social, educational, environmental, and economic dimensions:
Household Electrification: Installation of 350 small-scale PowerWell home solar systems in family homes across eight villages in Sumba. These will provide lighting and device charging for over 3,500 people, enabling an estimated 4.3 million hours of light and 365,000 device charges annually.
Community WiFi Hubs: Deployment of four solar-powered WiFi hubs in key community locations such as schools and medical centers. These hubs will provide basic internet access to over 5,600 people annually.
Local Capacity Building: Training for 12 local Sumba Sustainable Solutions team members in Wiangapu, Sumba on assembling, repairing and maintaining PowerWells systems. This initiative not only ensures the longevity of installed systems but also creates job opportunities and continues to build local expertise.
Environmental Impact: Repurposing 7,200 lithium-ion battery cells and 600 computer screens that would otherwise end up in landfill. The project will also offset 46 tons of CO2 emissions by replacing kerosene lanterns with clean solar energy and LED lights. The project will also prototype the use of thinly laminated local bamboo as an alternative enclosure for the PowerWells.
Why This Matters
The benefits of this project extend far beyond immediate access to electricity:
Health Improvements: Replacing kerosene lanterns eliminates harmful indoor air pollution that causes respiratory issues.
Educational Opportunities: With lighting available after dark, children can study longer, and adults can pursue skill development.
Economic Empowerment: Reliable electricity reduces household reliance on costly kerosene while enabling productive activities like weaving or small-scale entrepreneurship.
Environmental Sustainability: By repurposing e-waste into durable solar systems, PowerWells promotes responsible consumption and production in alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Building on Proven Success
This project builds on the success of a pilot initiative launched in 2020 that provided electricity to 300 homes in Sumba. Despite challenges posed by COVID-19 restrictions and regulatory changes, the pilot demonstrated the transformative potential of small-scale solar systems managed through a Pay-As-You-Go (PayGo) lease to own model. Feedback from these communities has informed the development of a more efficient, lighter, and more cost-effective version of the PowerWell system.
Innovative Technology for Long-Term Impact
PowerWells’ unique approach combines cutting-edge technology with sustainability:
Battery Longevity: A proprietary Battery Management System (BMS) extends battery life by limiting daily usage capacity.
Data Collection: Proprietary PowerWells hardware and software enable monthly performance monitoring to ensure system reliability.
Community Engagement: Local teams are trained to manage installations and maintenance, ensuring long-term impact.
A Partnership for change
The APNIC Foundation’s ISIF Asia grant has been instrumental in making this project a reality. By aligning with key focus areas such as inclusion and infrastructure development, the "Light to Sumba" project contributes directly and indirectly to several SDGs, including SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
Looking Ahead
The "Light to Sumba" project is more than just an energy solution; it’s a catalyst for socioeconomic transformation. By addressing energy poverty while reducing e-waste, PowerWells is paving the way for a brighter future where underserved communities can thrive in an increasingly connected world.
Stay tuned as we bring light and hope to Sumba! For updates on this project or to learn how you can support our mission, visit our website or contact us directly. Together, we can illuminate lives and empower communities.