The technology end of portable solar power for health care is now in Haiti for the first time.

The use of a WE CARE Solar Suitcase began in Cap Haitien this month with a partnership between the Caribbean Universities Development Foundation (CUDF), Empower Global Inc., WE CARE and the Mayor of Cap Haitien.

A group of about 20 doctors, nurses, other health care workers, church representatives, NGOs and the Mayor exchanged enthusiasm about this Solar Suitcase of about 30 pounds that includes high-efficiency LED medical task lighting, a universal cell phone charger, a battery charger for AAA or AA batteries and outlets for 12V DC devices. This Suitcase includes 40 watts of solar panels and a 12 amp-hour sealed lead-acid battery.

The Solar Suitcase will be used to support timely and efficient emergency obstetric care in a range of medical and humanitarian settings in North Haiti where there are no electrical utilities. It is an economical, easy-to-use, portable power unit that provides health, education and other organizations with highly efficient lighting and power for mobile communication and small devices. With expansion, it can power laptop computers and medical devices in areas or at times when power is not available.

Cap Haitien Mayor, Jean Guy Cherenfant, acknowledged that it was an honor to be the first region in Haiti where portable solar power will be used to support rural population needs. Dr. Charles Giammona, CUDF Executive Director and Mr. Cal Schultz, Director of Operation Haiti for Empower Global Inc., especially see the system effective where vehicles cannot travel. WE CARE Director, Dr. Laura E. Stachel, said they are delighted to see their Solar Suitcase used in Haiti.

HL/ SL/ HaitiLibre