Solar park in Gaza City: A proposed social business to bring renewable energy knowledge in the conflict region

Abstract

Energy poverty, defined as the lack of access to modern energy services such as electricity and clean cooking facilities, can escalate violence in areas of conflict especially where the borders close off access to fuel, as in the case of Gaza. Renewable Energy technology could help bring people the feeling of hope and security and offers positive impact to their health and to the environment. The strategy of approaching peace through providing clean and safe energy solutions to civilians that are affected by violence is crucial. Grameen Shakti Model, a social business developed by the 2006 Noble Peace Prize Winner, Professor Muhammad Yunus in Bangladesh introduced Solar Home Systems (SHS), Biogas, and Improved Cookstoves to individual homes and has replicatied elsewhere. However, every country's situation is unique. In order to be effective and successful in expanding renewable energy in Gaza city, it is important to convince communities, researchers and governments to facilitate renewable energy applications in homes in the conflict area. The solar park as a social business integrating elements of the Grameen Shakti model is the first step to expose the Gaza city community and be a coordinating and training body for renewable energy initiatives. This paper illustrates statistical and technical elements of the Solar Park concept as well as the need for practical and demonstrative knowledge of the importance of renewable energy to offset the hazardous outcomes from the uses of existing fuel options.