Energy

Reliable access to energy, in particular electricity, often reduces the time people spend on everyday tasks. This means that they can engage in other activities such as education, employment and entertainment, thereby improving their quality of life. Energy is an essential requirement for human development and the eradication of poverty. However, most of our energy comes from finite fossil fuels and there is a significant global challenge to balance our energy demands against the associated environmental impacts.

Access to energy is a key enabler for life in the remote areas of Cape York. Homelands and outstations rely on stand-alone systems that are met with notable efficiency, financial and maintenance challenges. They can experience challenges in maintaining reliable energy access due to the costs, distance from grids, fuel and maintenance services, and the climate. What ideas can you come up with to provide reliable, efficient and affordable energy access?

12. Energy reliability

Efficient and reliable energy access provides more opportunities for essential services on homelands and utilities on ranger bases. Can you think of innovative ideas for continuous and efficient energy access?

13. Affordable Solar

Typical solar supplies are immobile and have high capital costs. What ideas can you come up with for affordable and reliable solar energy production that can enable living and working on Country?

14. Keeping food fresh

Fridges and freezers rely on a continuous supply of energy to keep food fresh. CfAT estimates, in the absence of air conditioning, refrigeration accounts for approximately 70% of energy usage and demand in homelands and outstations. However, storing large quantities of meat can result in significant spikes in energy for solar supplies. Can you come up with innovative solutions to store food that are not dependent on existing energy supply, such as solar or diesel?

[*1] This project spans several design areas

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