Solar Power In South Africa

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“Load shedding”, “depletion of non-renewable resources”, “global warming”- these are all terms that we have unknowingly learned and understood over the years simply because they are becoming severe social and environmental problems on a global level. Thus the hunt for an energy source that is independent of the above problems is the prime of the day in the 21st century. The most promising alternative, especially in a sunlight-rich climate like South Africa’s, seems to be the sun’s radiation or what’s commonly known as “solar power”.
Living in a developing country, like South Africa, poses more immediate problems that need to be solved. The betterment of the lives of those living in areas outside the national grid (in non-electrified areas) should be top priority. Therefore, any method of improvement would be immensely appreciated by those affected and will also point our country in the direction of progression.
A way of tackling both the energy crisis and aiding the lives of our citizens will truly be a revolutionary feat. The solar cooker an example of such a product which has the potential to form the foundation for new technologies that will lead us into a more energy efficient and eco-friendly era.
RESEARCH INTO THE IMPACT OF THE SOLAR COOKER IN SOUTH AFRICA

The solar cooker already has a history in South Africa dating back to the 1970s when Willi Sureman, pioneer in solar Cooking, identified the opportunity for a solar cooking device in South Africa( Wentzel, 1997). With South Africa being dubbed “Sunny South Africa”, it’s evident that solar energy has the potential to be the norm for reducing high costs of living, eradicating load-shedding and developing rural areas in terms of access to electricity and broader, new-ag...

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...are almost perfect for our target audience.

Parabolic cookers
These cookers are funnel-shaped. They work on the principles of the above two designs making it almost ideal. However, it is much more expensive than other models, a strong support is needed, and it also requires periodic realignment to the sun with can prove to be dangerous, the reflective nature of the device can damage the eyes which is a major concern in rural communities where children are often delegated cooking chores.

Our device
Our device will therefore have a box type shape. It will ideally be completely made from recycled materials, with a cardboard frame. It will also be more resistant against water in the form of steam making it more durable and painted black because black absorbs energy (heat) while white reflects energy (McLaren C, Physical Sciences grade 11) thus increasing efficiency.

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