22nd-23rd June 2008
Institute of Engineering
Pulchowk Campus
DEMONSTRATION ACTIVITY RELATED TO USE OF SOLAR THERMAL PRODUCTS
The Renewable Energy Project (REP) is supporting dissemination of solar thermal technologies: solar dryers and solar hot water systems in rural areas of Nepal.. During extensive information campaign, demand collection, eligibility check, and feasibility studies, the REP team concluded that the rural population and businesses required more information on solar thermal systems. Each technology has its own set of challenges: the cultural habits of the rural population are strongly hampering attractiveness of solar cookers, the lack of plumbing facilities hampers the use of SHW systems, insufficient knowledge of markets reduces the potential for use of solar dryers, etc.
AEPC is currently promoting the use of solar cookers and solar dryers through a two-pronged approach: subsidy for these products and VAT and custom duty exemptions (valid also for SHW systems). Even if the number of systems procured is capped by the availability of funds, the important commercial potential for ST products seems to remain untapped.
In order to fulfill the identified gaps, the REP together with the AEPC is organizing demonstration gatherings in order to raise awareness of general public and businesses on the technology and benefits of solar thermal systems. Three technologies are presented: Solar Water Heater, Solar Dryer and Solar Cooker.
This demonstration is open to general publics. The REP extends special invitation to representatives from schools, hospitals, hotels, as well as small and medium enterprises engaged in agro business.
