Solar photovoltaic technology in isolated rural communities in Latin America and the Caribbean

The main characteristics of photovoltaic (PV) energy and its current development in Latin American and Caribbean countries (LAC); its impact on the electrification of homes, health institutions, and schools in isolated or difficult-to-access communities; and, the advantages thereof are presented and discussed by replacing the use of traditional fuels such as firewood and kerosene in order to improve inhabitants 'health as well as reducing CO2 emissions. Countries like Nicaragua, Peru, Brazil, Argentina, and Chile stand out for their growing PV energy development in the region. A case study of the electrification process by PV systems shows very positive changes are manifested in terms of improving the quality of life of the inhabitants, and especially their physical and mental health state. In addition, CO2 emission reductions from electrifying 216 houses in the nine communities reach an annual amount of 2,164.19 t/yr, reducing firewood consumption by 2,123.39 t/yr and kerosene consumption by 40.80 t/yr However, LAC countries must adopt laws and regulations that regulate the use of PV energy, with an emphasis on recycling systems at the end of their life cycle. (c) 2021 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.This is an open access article under the CC BY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).

Automated summary

This article presents the main characteristics and current development status of photovoltaic (PV) energy in Latin American and Caribbean countries (LAC). It discusses the impact of PV energy on the electrification of isolated or difficult-to-access communities, such as homes, health institutions, and schools. The advantages of using PV energy instead of traditional fuels like firewood and kerosene are highlighted, including improved inhabitants' health and reduced CO2 emissions. The countries of Nicaragua, Peru, Brazil, Argentina, and Chile are notable for their growing PV energy development in the region. A case study on the electrification process by PV systems demonstrates positive changes in improving the quality of life and the physical and mental health of the inhabitants. Furthermore, significant reductions in CO2 emissions are achieved by electrifying houses and reducing firewood and kerosene consumption. However, it is crucial for LAC countries to adopt laws and regulations that regulate the use of PV energy, particularly focusing on recycling systems at the end of their life cycle.