M-KOPA Solar, a Nairobi-based firm, is selling solar-powered, flat-screen televisions to customers living in areas that are not connected to the grid. The televisions come in a kit containing solar panels and portable batteries that can also run a lighting unit and charge mobile phones. Solar power has been used for years as an alternative source of energy but it was only recently that people started using it on their own roofs. MACHAKOS, Kenya (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - The solar kits – which cost $530, paid in small instalments – also have the advantage of replacing generators, which can be noisy, smoky, and expensive. M-KOPA has sold 6,000 TV sets so far.
M-KOPA Solar, a Nairobi-based firm, is selling solar-powered, flat-screen televisions to customers living in areas that are not connected to the grid. The televisions come in a kit containing solar panels and portable batteries that can also run a lighting unit and charge mobile phones. Solar power has been used for years as an alternative source of energy but it was only recently that people started using it on their own roofs. The solar kits – which cost $530, paid in small instalments – also have the advantage of replacing generators, which can be noisy, smoky, and expensive. M-KOPA has sold 6,000 TV sets so far.