ClimatePath is proud to support these innovative projects and project partners that are making the world a better place. Our emphasis is on projects with social and community benefit that also serve to lower carbon emissions through verified offsetting programs.
Low Income Energy Retrofits - South Africa
Low Income Energy Retrofits - South Africa
Through the Credible Carbon Program, projects fund solar water heaters, compact fluorescent lighting, solar cookers, better fuels and electricity generation for several low income household communities in South Africa including Welbedacht (KwaZulu-Natal) , Kuyasa (Khayelitsha), and Cato Manor (Umuthi Mayche). These alternative energy supplies are more cost-effective, reduce grid-electricity consumption in the face of an unreliable, dirty energy supply, and decrease emission of greenhouse gases, while also improving the quality of life for residents.
Feedback has been very positive. Resident Mbali Ntuli commented: "The biggest difference is when there is no electricity I can still have warm water." Other residents appreciate the money saved on electricity bills. One young boy mentioned that he loves his solar hot water heater because he no longer has to get up at 4am to collect wood for the fire. Conversion kits are sold at 50% of their cost to interested households, who make their payments via microfinancing with a monthly repayment schedule. Funding from carbon credits and other sources (including USAID) makes up the difference, and pays for ongoing equipment.
Credible Carbon is a registry that sells credits from projects that are independently audited against carbon market standards that have been approved by the UNFCCC. Every project is independently audited and has to comply with the Credible Carbon Standard. Part of the project registration process describes how the project intends to deliver poverty alleviation.
