Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) have recently become even more affordable and power efficient. LEDs operate at low voltages, and have incredible efficiencies at very low power levels. The solar LED lantern is equal to a kerosene lantern in usefulness and comparable in light output. The goal is a light source with power consumption close to one watt. This allows the use of a small photovoltaic panel to charge a 12 Volt 1.2-1.5 Amp-Hour battery. Its design uses a number of smaller LEDs wired in a parallel series arrangement. The design has the ability to direct and focus light without reflectors, uses only 1/3rd the current, and employs a 12-Volt battery and photovoltaic cell.

The solar lantern can last up to five years, with a Rs.180 battery replacement cost every twenty months. With the help of a grant from the US Environmental Protection Agency, the students have recently fabricated 80 prototype lamps for trial in villages near JITM

By improving indoor air quality and decreasing energy costs, this technology will not only improve the quality of life of the poor in the developing world, but will also decrease the global dependence on petroleum, and take a significant step towards the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

                                    AID Saathi, Dhanada Mishra