The presentation today (4/10/2018) regarding solar panels and renewable energy got me thinking about some of the other ways that the legal profession may be able to contribute to renewable energy solutions around the globe. As a result, I came across this article, which provides a discussion on off-the-grid solutions in Africa and how they contribute to development in African countries. The article also includes a discussion on how large law firms like DLA Piper are involved in these efforts.
I could see solar panel working well in remote areas of Africa due to the ability to build solar farms on a smaller scale, whereas other sources of power (such as coal) seem to require large plants. Also, the fact that solar power is much cleaner than other power may make it easier to secure permitting.
At first sight, solar panel does seem like a reliable, dependable source of renewable and sustainable energy. However, once one does the research, you’ll discover that solar panel (PV) is actually not as efficient. There are several complicating factors that reduces its efficiency rate to less than 15%. There are other solar power options, such as Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) that have higher efficiency and ultimately should be investor’s focus to make long-lasting impact in these so-called developing nations in Africa.