Think Bigg

Just last week, the World Bank launched a new program called “Lighting Africa,” to provide safer, greener alternatives for the 250 million people in sub-Saharan Africa who have no access to power.

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Because the World Bank estimates that $17 billion a year is spent on inefficient and polluting light sources, such as kerosene, they are turning loose the private sector with a competition and the promise of cold, hard cash (something that’s always alluring to aspiring entrepreneurs!).

Ten to 20 winners will receive grants of up to $200,000. More than 350 companies have already expressed interest.

According to the article,

Working with its private sector arm, the International Finance Corporation, the bank intends to develop market conditions for the supply and distribution of non-fossil fuel lighting products.

These products can include fluorescent light bulbs and light-emitting diodes for use in rural and urban areas not connected to an electricity grid. Power would come from the sun, the wind and mechanical devices such as pedals.

Perhaps some of you out there have a good idea to throw into the mix? The prize might be small, but the reward is immeasurable!

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