Okay, the camels aren’t solar-powered, but the refrigerators on their backs are. The panels/fridges are used to cool vaccines delivered to nomadic communities in Africa.
In transit, the lightweight, foldable solar panel powers the camel-pack refrigeration system. Once the camel convoy arrives at the remote health clinic site, the panel can be used in combination with larger solar panels to provide power for the health clinic. A foot-powered system provides backup and provides light in the clinic during extended operational hours when solar power is not available.
A Solar Refrigeration System, Carried by Camels
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Gareth Branwyn is a freelance writer and the former Editorial Director of Maker Media. He is the author or editor of over a dozen books on technology, DIY, and geek culture. He is currently a contributor to Boing Boing, Wink Books, and Wink Fun. His free weekly-ish maker tips newsletter can be found at garstipsandtools.com.
View more articles by Gareth Branwyn
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