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As tough as it is to operate remote solar companies in rural areas around the world, there is no end to the opportunity. And frustration is easily overcome by the satisfaction of visiting a rural household, far from anywhere, that lives on cash crops like cocoanut, betel nut, cashews, rice, coffee or pepper. The delight in the faces of everyone, from the smallest children to the oldest grandparents, when they first turn on the wall switch that lights up their house or powers their small TV is a rich reward. It’s wonderful to help people get rid of all those smoky, CO2-emitting, dangerous kerosene lamp.
Biography:
Mr. Williams founded the Solar Electric Light Company (SELCO) to deliver solar photovoltaic power to households and businesses in developing countries where there is little or no access to the electric grid.
Currently operating in India, Sri Lanka and Vietnam, SELCO has brought solar power and light to over 100,000 people and is in the process of opening up new markets. In addition to developing the company's business potential, Mr. Williams has devised innovative consumer finance mechanisms essential for bringing the company's solar home lighting system products to the market.
In 2002, SELCO received the U.S. Dept. of State's Award for Corporate Excellence for Small and Medium Companies for its operations in Vietnam, sharing the honor with the Ford Motor Company (the large company recipient).
Prior to launching SELCO, Mr. Williams was founder and Executive Director of the Solar Electric Light Fund (SELF, for energy self-reliance), the country's first non-profit organization devoted exclusively to bringing non-polluting, wireless solar electric power to rural areas of developing countries.
He brought together a leading group of solar energy and international development experts, technical associates and financial advisors, to assist national governments and community organizations in the developing world to implement solar rural electrification, largely for lighting and communications. He has promoted, developed and financed sustainable solar projects and enterprises in eleven countries.
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Sustainable
Resources 2004 > Presenters
