Energy is obtained by harnessing natural resources and converting them into a usable form. It is essential to a vibrant, growing community. Energy can be obtained by harnessing the inherent power that exists in flowing water, the sun, wind, or the bond between atoms, to name a few. While we use many sources of energy on a daily basis, the forms of energy available to inhabitants of the Pacific are limited. The sun provides an unlimited source of energy available to everyone but it must be harnessed. Pacific H.E.L.P.S. evaluates resources available to developing countries in the Pacific to determine the most effective way of harness those resources. Pacific H.E.L.P.S. has already made a significant impact to many isolated communities in the Pacific though solar energy. Solar and other renewable energies are used on a regular basis by those who work with and invest in Pacific H.E.L.P.S.

Solar Energy

Solar panels are used in many developing countries to power homes and businesses. In most developed countries, other forms of energy, such coal or nuclear, have been widely exploited and are often less expensive than solar power. However, in developing countries with limited resources may have no other alternative. Such is the case for many islands in the Pacific. In these locations, solar energy may provide the only source electricity available to its inhabitants. Pacific H.E.L.P.S. has experience in designing and installing solar systems to bring power to isolated communities in the Pacific. In 2010, the Federated States of Micronesia obtained a grant to install solar panels on the roofs of school buildings on several outer islands near Yap. These solar panels provided the only source of electricity for the inhabitants of those islands and allowed instructors to access computer technology not previously available. Paul Zimmer spent 4 weeks traveling to these islands to install solar panels on the school buildings. In addition, Paul uses solar energy to power his home on the island of Yap. Solar energy is a promising avenue for Pacific H.E.L.P.S. to assist many developing countries in the Pacific to bring power to their communities. In April, 2015, super typhoon Maysak destroyed the solar array installations on the several of these islands. The islands of Uliti and Fais were devastated by Maysak and Pacific H.E.L.P.S. was one of the first responders to provide assistance to the inhabitants. These solar installations need to be repaired and/or replaced so the inhabitants can continue to benefit from solar energy.

Wind Energy

Wind turbines are another promising avenue for creating a source of renewable energy for inhabitants of the Pacific islands. This is another source of energy that is exploited by developed countries but rarely used in developing countries. Since most of the islands inhabited in the Pacific are exposed to vast expanses of ocean, trade winds are unimpeded and are a constant source of energy that can be harnessed. Pacific H.E.L.P.S. will evaluate the energy needs and feasibility of installing wind turbines as a reliable source of energy for inhabitants of remote islands in the Pacific. Where feasible, Pacific H.E.L.P.S. will assist those residence in exploiting wind energy as a sustainable source of energy for powering schools, community facilities, and homes.