Solar technology in Uganda for reducing CO2 emissions

Before the introduction of solar technology in Uganda, most people used to bum petroleum products in order to get light. To everybody on earth, light is a prerequisite after sunset. However, it is common and clear knowledge that the burning of petroleum products produces greenhouse gases such as CO2. More than 90% of the population of about 22 million in Uganda formerly burned petroleum products to provide light, either by using kerosene lamps or generators, since at the moment, it is calculated that only 5% have access to grid power. However, solar technology has controlled the burning of petroleum products. Each solar lamp installed replaces two to three kerosene lamps as far as light intensity is concerned. Several solar projects have been handled in Uganda to control greenhouse gases. Examples are the Uganda Photovoltaic Pilot Project for Rural Electrification (UPPPRE) where 2000 solar systems were targeted, the Church of Uganda solar project where 360 solar systems were installed, plus several others. All the above projects were handled mainly to displace carbon emissions and to protect the environment. No figures have so far been provided to confirm the level of reduction of emissions effected by the use of solar technology. However, as much as the government and stakeholders are trying to displace carbon emissions, awareness and affordability are still big problems for potential end-users.