Off-Grid Lighting System for Rural Communities Using Renewable Energy, IoT, and Recyclable Materials

Abstract

Limited energy access is a major driver of multidimensional poverty in underdeveloped and developing nations, hindering economic productivity and overall development. Addressing energy deficiencies can significantly improve living standards and create growth opportunities, as the absence of a reliable power supply stifles advancement in activities that rely on power generation for lighting, cooling, or manufacturing. In response to these challenges, this study explores readily accessible recyclable materials-plastic bottles to promote clean energy. It introduces an innovation that illuminates homes in rural communities using natural light, solar energy, and stored energy. During the day, sunlight refracts through the water-filled bottle, providing natural lighting in the houses. At night, a 5000mAh lithium-ion battery, powered by a 3V solar panel, lights the home via a 2-watt LED bulb for up to 10 hours. This system can reduce energy consumption by up to 80% compared to traditional bulbs typically used in homes. In addition, the lithium-ion battery has a 10-year operational lifespan, while the solar panel has a lifespan of 5 years, contributing to the overall longevity. Early pilot tests show that this solution has the potential to provide sustainable, affordable lighting to over 600,000 households in South-West Nigeria, presenting a scalable and cost-effective model for rural electrification. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels and providing off-grid lighting, this study aligns directly with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and 13 (Climate Action), offering an environmentally responsible and economically feasible solution for residents of rural communities and beyond.