Material Used:

Like conventional refrigerators, solar$-$powered refrigerators are constructed with materials that have been modified to accept sun energy. Solar panels, battery storage, an inverter, and a charge controller make up the major parts. Sunlight is converted into power by high$-$efficiency solar panels, which are then stored in batteries and used to run the refrigerator even without sunlight. To ensure longevity and reliability, the materials must be resilient to Pu Ngaol's environmental conditions.

Costs:

In Pu Ngaol, a solar$-$powered refrigerator system comprises the refrigerator, solar panels, battery storage, charge controller, inverter, and installation for $$2,050$ USD $(8,405,000$ KHR$).$ The annual running expenses are low, with maintenance and battery replacement coming in at about $$85$ USD $(348,000$ KHR$).$ Considering the unstable grid and high cost of power in Cambodia, this project offers stability and long$-$term savings.

Maintenance:

For optimal performance, solar$-$powered freezers need to be maintained often. This includes doing routine maintenance, monitoring the batteries, and cleaning the solar panels once a year. Users will receive training on how to do small maintenance tasks, which will lessen their reliance on outside help and guarantee uninterrupted operation. In addition to boosting output, proper maintenance prolongs the life of equipment, cutting downtime and repair expenses.

$3$Ps of sustainability $($Profit$,$ People and Planet$)$:

$$ Profit: Over time, solar$-$powered refrigerators save you money by removing the need for costly and erratic grid power. This initiative will also provide training and maintenance jobs, which will generate jobs in the neighborhood.

$$ People: By guaranteeing that products and medications are preserved safely, dependable refrigeration supports both food security and healthcare. This immediately impacts the community's health and welfare.

$$ Planet: Utilizing solar energy lowers carbon footprints and greenhouse gas emissions. By using this eco$-$friendly method, we can lessen the effects of climate change and meet global sustainability targets.

Solar Energy Efficiency:

High$-$efficiency solar panels are needed to harvest the most amount of energy from the sun. These panels will work continuously even on overcast days or at night thanks to the integration of cutting$-$edge battery storage technology. Maintaining efficiency through routine maintenance and user training helps refrigerators run as efficiently as possible.

Ease of Use:

Freezers that run on solar power are made with ease of use in mind. After installation, they operate automatically and require little work. People with no prior technical abilities can use the technology because they will receive instruction on basic troubleshooting and installation procedures as well as a user handbook.

Distribution Strategy:

$$ Needs assessment: Collaborate with non$-$governmental organizations $($NGOs$)$ to determine which homes and establishments need emergency refrigeration.

$$ Funding: In return for subsidized equipment and technical assistance, gather funds from governmental bodies, non$-$governmental organizations $($NGOs$),$ and solar technology companies.

$$ Testing and Logistics: A logistics plan will be developed, and the refrigerators tested in conjunction with local authorities.

$$ Installation: Survey potential sites, install solar panels, and train workers on maintenance; these actions will lead to employment opportunities.

$$ Support and Evaluation: Create a hotline, do regular maintenance, offer user guides, and create a nearby repair shop. Ongoing assessment will guarantee program effectiveness and assist in identifying areas that require improvement.

Background:

Pu Ngaol faces significant energy issues, just like a large portion of Cambodia. Because of high electricity prices and antiquated infrastructure, only half of the town is connected to the electric grid. For refrigeration, firewood is not suitable, and this is why many rely on it$.$ A long$-$term, self$-$sufficient alternative that would improve the community's quality of life by guaranteeing dependable food and medication storage is the installation of solar$-$powered refrigerators.

Sources of funding:

We intend to raise funds via the Development Innovation Ventures $($DIV$)$ program of USAID and many other development agencies, such as the Sweden International Development Cooperation Agency and the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives. The first pilot stage is expected to cost up to $$200,000,$ which is within our budget.