Solar power a hit with shack residents
ALEXANDRA - Beneficiaries of solar equipment in Alex shacks recommend that the equipment also be provided to others without access to any power sources.
Residents of shacks in Alex who have had solar power units installed said others should also benefit from the alternative energy system.
Only 10 units were provided and installed by non-profit organisation Tshwarisanang Environmental Pro- Re-Active Safety Mentors to residents who live at the former Organic Market and along Vincent Tshabalala Road next to Bovet Primary School.
The alternative energy source consists of a charger, solar panel, light bulb and wiring, and residents said it had cost nothing and changed their lives.
Resident Cindy Ramawela who is unemployed and shares a shack with seven family members said the equipment illuminated their rooms and charged their cellphones. “It helps us save as we no longer buy candles which cost R13 per week,” she said. “Others make income by charging neighbours’ phones.”
Sisters Thobeka and Siphokazi Mathiyela said the equipment had changed their lives as they could now read through the night. “We charge our cellphones and the equipment is easy to operate and to maintain,” said Siphokazi.
She added that they used to spend R450 on paraffin but now they only use it for cooking.
Joe Baleka of the organisation said the equipment’s benefits included free power from the sun, durability as it lasts for more than 10 years if maintained well, and is also environmental friendly.
Baleka said the equipment could be installed through the government subsidy scheme.
