OffGridBox
Organization Details
The OffGridBox is a mobile and modular 2x2x2m container with solar panels on the top and a water purification/desalination system inside. This unit is one solution to three problems: lack of access to energy, lack of access to clean water and lack of access to connectivity. The box can be transported to anywhere in the world, and then deployed at the final location within 4 hours.
The OffGridBox provides clean water and renewable enrgy to households, and is also used to power (agricultural) productive use equipment, such as a water pump, an irrigation system, fruit and vegetable dryers, refrigeration and ice makers, welding and carpentry equipment, etc. Or the energy from the Box can power a main off taker like a health clinic or school. We have different sizes and models of our unit, including for microfiltration or reverse osmosis to desalinate water, and a miniaturised version for schools, health posts or entrepreneurs.
Impact Story
Global energy demand is growing, also in communities that are now off the grid. By replacing kerosene and diesel generators, one OffGridBox can save 15 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year.
Customers are provided with a solar powered battery pack, 2-3 led lights, a phone charger and a clean branded jerry can. Up to 400 households can recharge this 40Wh power bank at the OffGridBox and then light 3 lights for 4 hours, charge their phone or power small electronic equipment. In addition, they have access to purified water from the OffGridBox.
We employ local women, 2-4 per box, thereby generating income and empowerment. They are trained and use a mobile app to scan a QR code on the power bank, which tracks payments and customer behaviour. We monitor technical performance remotely, and use the same 3G/4G signals to provide internet/WiFi to the community, so they are connected and can inform themselves.
The impact of the OffGridBox is long term, sustainable access to affordable renewable energy as well as pumped and purified water for rural households, farmers and entrepreneurs. We empower local beneficiaries, especially women, by involving them in the decision-making and operational processes.
We contribute to the achievement of 11 different SDGs. SDG 1 (pro poor focus), SDG 3 (better health through clean water), SDG 4 (impact on education because of light available to study at night), SDG 5 (women empowerment through training and employment), SDG 6 (access to clean water), SDG 7 (access to affordable renewable energy), SDG 8 (direct and indirect employment), SDG 9 (availability of internet), SDG 10 (increased rural incomes), SDG 13 (emission reduction through replacement of kerosene by solar energy), SDG 15 (desalinated water for reforestation and fight desertification).
