{"id":557,"date":"2025-01-14T11:20:46","date_gmt":"2025-01-14T11:20:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/?p=557"},"modified":"2025-12-31T14:35:39","modified_gmt":"2025-12-31T14:35:39","slug":"transforming-lives-with-clean-energy-sunnys-first-demonstration-site-in-rwandas-mahama-refugee-camp","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/rw\/transforming-lives-with-clean-energy-sunnys-first-demonstration-site-in-rwandas-mahama-refugee-camp\/","title":{"rendered":"Presenting SUNNY&#8217;s 1st Demo Site in Rwanda&#8217;s Mahama Refugee Camp: Transforming Lives with Clean Energy"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wp-block-post-date\"><time datetime=\"2025-01-14T11:20:46+00:00\">January 14, 2025<\/time><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-vivid-green-cyan-color\">Access to clean and sustainable energy is not just a technical challenge; it\u2019s a fundamental aspect of improving lives.<\/mark><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">In communities where resources are scarce, energy solutions can make the difference between survival and progress. At the <strong>Mahama Refugee Camp in Rwanda<\/strong>, the SUNNY project has taken its first major step toward this goal, working alongside partners <strong>PA<\/strong>, <strong>SOLHYD<\/strong>, and <strong>SOLEK<\/strong> to deliver innovative clean energy solutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">Located in Rwanda&#8217;s Eastern Province, the Mahama Refugee Camp has been home to over 58,000 displaced individuals from Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) since its establishment in 2015. While some progress has been made in introducing renewable energy sources, access to sustainable energy remains limited, impacting health, education, safety, and economic development for both refugees and the surrounding host communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">Through the SUNNY project, we aim to test and implement pioneering solutions that will address these challenges, focusing on two key innovations: <strong>hydrogen-powered cooking systems<\/strong> and <strong>solar home systems<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-vivid-green-cyan-color\">The Energy Context at Mahama Refugee Camp<\/mark><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Mahama Refugee Camp spans 175 hectares and operates under significant energy constraints. Although efforts have been underway since 2022 to connect the camp to the national electric grid, the current reliance on firewood, diesel generators, and LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) poses serious challenges:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Environmental Impact:<\/strong> Firewood contributes to deforestation, and diesel generators emit harmful carbon.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Financial Burden:<\/strong> Diesel and LPG costs strain humanitarian resources.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Health and Safety Risks:<\/strong> Indoor air pollution and fire hazards harm community well-being.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Existing renewable efforts, such as the Nasho Solar Power Plant and solar panels at Mahama\u2019s health center, have been impactful but need scaling to meet growing demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" data-id=\"559\" src=\"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/20231109_114438-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-559\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/20231109_114438-980x735.jpg 980w, https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/20231109_114438-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" data-id=\"558\" src=\"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/20231109_151257-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-558\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/20231109_151257-980x735.jpg 980w, https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/20231109_151257-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-vivid-green-cyan-color\">SUNNY Project: Objectives and Vision<\/mark><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>SUNNY aims to demonstrate clean energy solutions while assessing their environmental, social, and economic impact. Our core goals are to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Reduce Carbon Footprint<\/strong> by shifting from firewood and diesel.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Enhance Safety<\/strong> with cleaner, safer cooking and energy options.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Empower Communities<\/strong> by boosting economic opportunities and gender equality.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Promote Climate Resilience<\/strong> through sustainable energy models for displaced populations worldwide.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>To achieve these goals, SUNNY has introduced two key solutions at its first demonstration site: <strong>hydrogen-powered cookstoves and solar home systems<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-light-green-cyan-color\">1. Hydrogen cooking solutions<\/mark><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Cooking remains a critical challenge for many refugees. Traditional methods, such as using firewood and charcoal, are unsustainable and pose severe risks to health and the environment. The SUNNY project is introducing hydrogen-powered cooking solutions that offer a cleaner, safer alternative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Key Features Being Tested:<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\" style=\"grid-template-columns:39% auto\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/2.-Hydrogen-cooking-min-1024x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-568 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/2.-Hydrogen-cooking-min-1024x1024.png 1024w, https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/2.-Hydrogen-cooking-min-980x980.png 980w, https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/2.-Hydrogen-cooking-min-480x480.png 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p><strong>Hydrogen Generation:<\/strong> Monitored through solar hydrogen panels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Storage Innovations:<\/strong> Hydrogen stored in truck tire inner tubes; evaluated for pressure, leaks, and portability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Performance &amp; Safety:<\/strong> A 100-hour test ensures efficiency, safety sensors detect failures, and system reliability is validated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These systems offer a practical, safe alternative to firewood and LPG, improving household health and safety and reducing carbon emissions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-light-green-cyan-color\">2. Solar Home Systems<\/mark><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Solar energy has already begun to make a difference at Mahama, but access to solar-powered systems for individual households remains limited. As part of the SUNNY project, <strong>solar home systems<\/strong> will be installed to test their performance, gather user feedback, and determine their scalability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How It Works:<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile\" style=\"grid-template-columns:auto 40%\"><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free installations<\/strong> for selected households.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>User feedback<\/strong> collected via <strong>ANGAHA CRM<\/strong> for performance monitoring and issue resolution.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Community engagement ensures solutions align with household needs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This process ensures solar systems are effective, user-friendly, and scalable for broader implementation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This approach ensures that the systems are user-friendly, effective, and tailored to the community\u2019s specific energy requirements.<\/p>\n<\/div><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/1.-Solar-home-systems-min-1024x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-569 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/1.-Solar-home-systems-min-1024x1024.png 1024w, https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/1.-Solar-home-systems-min-980x980.png 980w, https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/1.-Solar-home-systems-min-480x480.png 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-vivid-green-cyan-color\">Why this matters: the broader impact<\/mark><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The introduction of hydrogen cooking solutions and solar home systems at Mahama Refugee Camp has far-reaching implications for refugees, host communities, and humanitarian actors alike:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Environmental benefits:<\/strong> Reduces deforestation caused by firewood collection and carbon emissions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Economic opportunities:<\/strong> Supports small businesses, creating jobs and lowering energy costs. SUNNY\u2019s solutions will also reduce the financial burden of purchasing LPG and diesel.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Health &amp; Safety Improvements:<\/strong> Minimizes smoke exposure, fire hazards, and respiratory illnesses.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Community Integration:<\/strong> Benefits both refugees and host populations, fostering shared progress and social cohesion.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"562\" src=\"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/20231109_123641-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-562\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" data-id=\"563\" src=\"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/20231109_132238-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-563\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/20231109_132238-980x735.jpg 980w, https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/20231109_132238-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-vivid-green-cyan-color\">Looking ahead: a model for global impact<\/mark><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Mahama is just the beginning. The SUNNY project aims to create a <strong>scalable model<\/strong> for addressing energy challenges in refugee camps worldwide. Insights gained here will inform future clean energy initiatives, proving that sustainable solutions can empower communities everywhere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>At SUNNY, we believe access to energy is a human right.<\/strong> Through innovation and collaboration, we can build a brighter, more sustainable future for all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<!--more-->\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-social-links is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-social-links-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-social-links-is-layout-flex\"><li class=\"wp-social-link wp-social-link-linkedin  wp-block-social-link\"><a rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/linkedin.com\/company\/sunny-project\" class=\"wp-block-social-link-anchor\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M19.7,3H4.3C3.582,3,3,3.582,3,4.3v15.4C3,20.418,3.582,21,4.3,21h15.4c0.718,0,1.3-0.582,1.3-1.3V4.3 C21,3.582,20.418,3,19.7,3z M8.339,18.338H5.667v-8.59h2.672V18.338z M7.004,8.574c-0.857,0-1.549-0.694-1.549-1.548 c0-0.855,0.691-1.548,1.549-1.548c0.854,0,1.547,0.694,1.547,1.548C8.551,7.881,7.858,8.574,7.004,8.574z M18.339,18.338h-2.669 v-4.177c0-0.996-0.017-2.278-1.387-2.278c-1.389,0-1.601,1.086-1.601,2.206v4.249h-2.667v-8.59h2.559v1.174h0.037 c0.356-0.675,1.227-1.387,2.526-1.387c2.703,0,3.203,1.779,3.203,4.092V18.338z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">LinkedIn<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n<li class=\"wp-social-link wp-social-link-x  wp-block-social-link\"><a rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/SunnyProjectEU\" class=\"wp-block-social-link-anchor\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M13.982 10.622 20.54 3h-1.554l-5.693 6.618L8.745 3H3.5l6.876 10.007L3.5 21h1.554l6.012-6.989L15.868 21h5.245l-7.131-10.378Zm-2.128 2.474-.697-.997-5.543-7.93H8l4.474 6.4.697.996 5.815 8.318h-2.387l-4.745-6.787Z\" \/><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">X<\/span><\/a><\/li><\/ul>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Access to clean and sustainable energy is not just a technical challenge; it\u2019s a fundamental aspect of improving lives. <\/p>","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":558,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"<!-- wp:post-date \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-vivid-green-cyan-color\">Access to clean and sustainable energy is not just a technical challenge; it\u2019s a fundamental aspect of improving lives.<\/mark><\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"align\":\"left\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">In communities where resources are scarce, energy solutions can make the difference between survival and progress. At the <strong>Mahama Refugee Camp in Rwanda<\/strong>, the SUNNY project has taken its first major step toward this goal, working alongside partners <strong>PA<\/strong>, <strong>SOLHYD<\/strong>, and <strong>SOLEK<\/strong> to deliver innovative clean energy solutions.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"align\":\"left\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">Located in Rwanda's Eastern Province, the Mahama Refugee Camp has been home to over 58,000 displaced individuals from Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) since its establishment in 2015. While some progress has been made in introducing renewable energy sources, access to sustainable energy remains limited, impacting health, education, safety, and economic development for both refugees and the surrounding host communities.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"align\":\"left\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">Through the SUNNY project, we aim to test and implement pioneering solutions that will address these challenges, focusing on two key innovations: <strong>hydrogen-powered cooking systems<\/strong> and <strong>solar home systems<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-vivid-green-cyan-color\">The Energy Context at Mahama Refugee Camp<\/mark><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The Mahama Refugee Camp spans 175 hectares and operates under significant energy constraints. Although efforts have been underway since 2022 to connect the camp to the national electric grid, the current reliance on firewood, diesel generators, and LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) poses serious challenges:<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Environmental Impact:<\/strong> Firewood contributes to deforestation, and diesel generators emit harmful carbon.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Financial Burden:<\/strong> Diesel and LPG costs strain humanitarian resources.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Health and Safety Risks:<\/strong> Indoor air pollution and fire hazards harm community well-being.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Existing renewable efforts, such as the Nasho Solar Power Plant and solar panels at Mahama\u2019s health center, have been impactful but need scaling to meet growing demands.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:separator -->\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n<!-- \/wp:separator -->\n\n<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":559,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/20231109_114438-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-559\"\/><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":558,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/20231109_151257-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-558\"\/><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image --><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:separator -->\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n<!-- \/wp:separator -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-vivid-green-cyan-color\">SUNNY Project: Objectives and Vision<\/mark><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>SUNNY aims to demonstrate clean energy solutions while assessing their environmental, social, and economic impact. Our core goals are to:<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Reduce Carbon Footprint<\/strong> by shifting from firewood and diesel.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Enhance Safety<\/strong> with cleaner, safer cooking and energy options.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Empower Communities<\/strong> by boosting economic opportunities and gender equality.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Promote Climate Resilience<\/strong> through sustainable energy models for displaced populations worldwide.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To achieve these goals, SUNNY has introduced two key solutions at its first demonstration site: <strong>hydrogen-powered cookstoves and solar home systems<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:separator -->\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n<!-- \/wp:separator -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-light-green-cyan-color\">1. Hydrogen cooking solutions<\/mark><\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Cooking remains a critical challenge for many refugees. Traditional methods, such as using firewood and charcoal, are unsustainable and pose severe risks to health and the environment. The SUNNY project is introducing hydrogen-powered cooking solutions that offer a cleaner, safer alternative.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":5} -->\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Key Features Being Tested:<\/strong><\/h5>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:media-text {\"mediaId\":568,\"mediaLink\":\"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/?attachment_id=568\",\"mediaType\":\"image\",\"mediaWidth\":39} -->\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\" style=\"grid-template-columns:39% auto\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img src=\"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/2.-Hydrogen-cooking-min-1024x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-568 size-full\"\/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\"><!-- wp:paragraph {\"placeholder\":\"Content\u2026\"} -->\n<p><strong>Hydrogen Generation:<\/strong> Monitored through solar hydrogen panels.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Storage Innovations:<\/strong> Hydrogen stored in truck tire inner tubes; evaluated for pressure, leaks, and portability.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Performance &amp; Safety:<\/strong> A 100-hour test ensures efficiency, safety sensors detect failures, and system reliability is validated.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"placeholder\":\"Content\u2026\"} -->\n<p>These systems offer a practical, safe alternative to firewood and LPG, improving household health and safety and reducing carbon emissions.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/div><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:media-text -->\n\n<!-- wp:separator -->\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n<!-- \/wp:separator -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-light-green-cyan-color\">2. Solar Home Systems<\/mark><\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Solar energy has already begun to make a difference at Mahama, but access to solar-powered systems for individual households remains limited. As part of the SUNNY project, <strong>solar home systems<\/strong> will be installed to test their performance, gather user feedback, and determine their scalability.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":5} -->\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How It Works:<\/strong><\/h5>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:media-text {\"mediaPosition\":\"right\",\"mediaId\":569,\"mediaLink\":\"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/?attachment_id=569\",\"mediaType\":\"image\",\"mediaWidth\":40} -->\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile\" style=\"grid-template-columns:auto 40%\"><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\"><!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Free installations<\/strong> for selected households.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>User feedback<\/strong> collected via <strong>ANGAHA CRM<\/strong> for performance monitoring and issue resolution.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Community engagement ensures solutions align with household needs.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>This process ensures solar systems are effective, user-friendly, and scalable for broader implementation.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"placeholder\":\"Content\u2026\"} -->\n<p>This approach ensures that the systems are user-friendly, effective, and tailored to the community\u2019s specific energy requirements.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/div><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img src=\"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/1.-Solar-home-systems-min-1024x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-569 size-full\"\/><\/figure><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:media-text -->\n\n<!-- wp:separator -->\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n<!-- \/wp:separator -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-vivid-green-cyan-color\">Why this matters: the broader impact<\/mark><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The introduction of hydrogen cooking solutions and solar home systems at Mahama Refugee Camp has far-reaching implications for refugees, host communities, and humanitarian actors alike:<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true,\"start\":1} -->\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Environmental benefits:<\/strong> Reduces deforestation caused by firewood collection and carbon emissions.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Economic opportunities:<\/strong> Supports small businesses, creating jobs and lowering energy costs. SUNNY\u2019s solutions will also reduce the financial burden of purchasing LPG and diesel.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Health &amp; Safety Improvements:<\/strong> Minimizes smoke exposure, fire hazards, and respiratory illnesses.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Community Integration:<\/strong> Benefits both refugees and host populations, fostering shared progress and social cohesion.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ol>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:separator -->\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n<!-- \/wp:separator -->\n\n<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":562,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/20231109_123641-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-562\"\/><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":563,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/20231109_132238-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-563\"\/><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image --><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:separator -->\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n<!-- \/wp:separator -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-vivid-green-cyan-color\">Looking ahead: a model for global impact<\/mark><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Mahama is just the beginning. The SUNNY project aims to create a <strong>scalable model<\/strong> for addressing energy challenges in refugee camps worldwide. Insights gained here will inform future clean energy initiatives, proving that sustainable solutions can empower communities everywhere.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>At SUNNY, we believe access to energy is a human right.<\/strong> Through innovation and collaboration, we can build a brighter, more sustainable future for all.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:more -->\n<!--more-->\n<!-- \/wp:more -->\n\n<!-- wp:social-links -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-social-links\"><!-- wp:social-link {\"url\":\"linkedin.com\/company\/sunny-project\",\"service\":\"linkedin\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:social-link {\"url\":\"https:\/\/x.com\/SunnyProjectEU\",\"service\":\"x\"} \/--><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:social-links -->\n\n<!-- wp:latest-posts \/-->","_et_gb_content_width":"1440","footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[12,14,11,13],"class_list":["post-557","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized","tag-africa","tag-rwanda","tag-sunny","tag-sustainable-energy"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/rw\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/557","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/rw\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/rw\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/rw\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/rw\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=557"}],"version-history":[{"count":12,"href":"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/rw\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/557\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":607,"href":"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/rw\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/557\/revisions\/607"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/rw\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/558"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/rw\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=557"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/rw\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=557"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sunny-project.eu\/rw\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=557"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}