Diepsloot shines bright thanks to new solar lights
FOURWAYS – Project Sunshine lights up the lives of the Diepsloot community.
Project Sunshine, a Greenpeace Africa initiative, recently handed over solar lights to the community of Diepsloot.
“Project Sunshine is an example of what the future could look like for those without access to energy. Our current electricity system reinforces inequality because it simply bypasses many communities across South Africa,” said Nhlanhla Sibisi, climate and energy campaigner for Greenpeace Africa.
Sibisi said Project Sunshine proves that it is possible to install off-the-grid solar streetlights and micro-grids which are powered by renewable energy, enabling energy access for those who need it most.
The people of Diepsloot walk down dark streets and there has been no solution in sight for them until now. The project was used to pilot a strategy that Greenpeace Africa would like to encourage municipalities to implement in their communities which have the same lighting problem.
Sibisi further explained that renewable energy can put the power back into people’s hands and help create a brighter future. “We call on municipalities across South Africa to seriously consider micro-grid options and solar powered energy solutions because the transformation of the energy sector towards a more sustainable, equitable one is urgent.”
With Diepsloot’s high crime rate, the community will hopefully see a decline in criminal behaviour thanks to the installation of solar lighting, making it a safer environment for those who live in the area.
