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City investigates alternative lighting solutions for more informal settlements

The City is investigating solar powered lighting solutions for more informal settlements in the metro and this month visited the PJS informal settlement in Khayelitsha with partners in the energy sector for a closer look at the current solar powered lighting project and future lighting prospects for the area.

Mayoral Committee Member for Energy, Councillor Beverley van Reenen together with City officials, Dr Yael Borofsky and representatives from Lightup, an alternative lighting solutions organisation visited the PJS informal settlement to engage with the community about the solar powered lighting solutions in the area. Solar powered lighting solutions in informal settlements can bring a range of benefits to residents, the environment as well as the local economy in the community. As part of the City's new Urban Energy Poverty Alleviation Programme, alternative energy solutions are being investigated in informal settlements where grid connected electrification is not possible. <figure class="subtopic-fullsize-img"> <img src="https://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/Media%20Images%202/DJI_0023.jpg" class="responsive" alt="" style="width:1282px;" /> </figure>'The City and its partners have been in a number of communities to assist residents with solar lighting solutions where formal electricity is not feasible. In the City's supply areas, almost 100% of the older existing informal settlements have been electrified. But there are many existing and newer settlements that have formed on land where it is not possible to electrify, such as on wetlands, in ponds or on roads- and nature reserves. Access to power remains an important focus for the City not only to improve living conditions but also to reduce the risk of fires primarily caused by open, unattended flames. 'The City continues to learn from experts on the ground and we thank all partners for their shared commitment in assisting residents who need it most. Earlier this year, we visited areas in Blackheath and QQ Section in Khayelitsha, with partners iShack and Zonke, to look at the solar lighting projects being carried out there, and we will be investigating the options for more unelectrified areas in the coming months. <figure class="subtopic-fullsize-img"> <img src="https://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/Media%20Images%202/DSC_5560.jpg" class="responsive" alt="" style="width:1730px;" /> </figure>'By providing safe, sustainable, and affordable solutions in communities our solar lighting projects can make an immediate impact and significantly improve the lives of residents in informal settlements,' said Councillor van Reenen.Benefits of solar powered lighting in informal settlements:<ul><li>Safety and Security</li><li>Enhanced visibility</li><li>Improved quality of life</li><li>Extended working hours for businesses</li><li>Educational opportunities – extended study hours for students </li><li>Environmental benefits</li><li>Reduced fire risks in the winter</li><li>Improved health for the community </li></ul> <figure class="subtopic-fullsize-img"> <img src="https://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/Media%20Images%202/DSC_5607.jpg" class="responsive" alt="" style="width:949px;" /> </figure>End

2024-04-14T22:00:00Z

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