RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF SOLAR-POWERED RURAL WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS BASED ON A STUDY IN SOUTHERN HONDURAS

摘要

The use of solar energy for water supply systems is not a new concept, but a design solution that has had little experience in a developing world context. This article explores the outcome of a study of 3 such projects carried out in southern Honduras, Central America, in 2000 and 2001. It examines the diverse aspects of solar-powered rural water pumping systems in relation with their sustainability and suggests a series of recommendations for the implementation of future projects, focusing on the areas found most important: community administration; technical assistance; suitability of the project; design of the water system; and training and institutional support. Evidently there is more work that needs to be done on ensuring the sustainability of projects of this type; photovoltaic water pumping can be a viable solution to a community's needs, but the requirements of the technology must be understood and fulfilled.