New Report Lights Path to
Climate-Friendly Energy

Study Investigates Financial, Social and Environmental Benefits of Solar Home Systems

Washington, DC--In a new report released today by Renewable Energy Policy Project (REPP-CREST), primary author Steven Kaufman finds that solar home systems (SHSs) have more to offer than just cleaner air. The report, "Rural Electrification with Solar Energy as a Climate Protection Strategy," looks at the financial, social and environmental benefits of solar home systems.

"Solar home systems help control greenhouse gases and improve living conditions. The Kyoto Protocol (to combat global warming) presents tremendous opportunities for renewable technology investments in developing countries. Such investments would help to build important energy infrastructure," Kaufman said.

The report assesses avoided electrical grid emissions, displacement of traditional, dirtier technologies such as kerosene lamps, and the inclusion of SHSs in the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) established by the Kyoto Protocol.

"Solar home systems won't fly unless we can position them as both an environmental strategy and as a broader development approach that helps people in their daily lives. Obviously, there is no bumper sticker solution to solving the climate change issue. This is one easy, economical way people can help combat a complicated problem like global warming," said Adam Serchuk, research director at REPP-CREST.

REPP-CREST explores the emerging relationships among markets, policy and public demand for renewable energy.

Contact MK Campbell at 202-293-2898, or visit REPP's website for copies of: "Rural Electrification with Solar Energy as a Climate Protection Strategy" by Steven Kaufman with contributions by Richard Duke, Richard Hansen, John Rogers, Richard Schwartz, and Mark Trexler.

"Rural Electrification with Solar Energy as a Climate Protection Strategy" was funded by a generous grant from the Joyce Mertz-Gilmore Foundation.

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