The technical design for the system is ready, but we haven't been able to purchase the equipment yet due a shortage of funds. We are only $3000 short for implementing the whole project. We are still hoping to raise this missing amount and install the system on the dormitory in 2010.
As of June 2010: The community has been suffering from food shortage for the last couple of seasons due to climate extremes, which has caused out migration of some people to look for odd jobs and food. The condition has affected the number of people working in the project, and therefore the pace of progress.
However, the turbine & generator, and the post harvest facility are now in place and functioning.
The system is still short of funds to install electricity lines throughout the villages. School electrification was decided as the top priority by the community. A new school building has been completed close to the power house (where the turbine and generators are located) and receives electricity, which enables adult literacy classes at night..
Capability-building (trainings) on the electrical plant and Post-harvest facility are happening right now. Food production and agroforestry will be given attention for the rest of the year. Food production activities will progress from the vegetable gardens to irrigated rice systems to increase food security in the villages.
A group of four students from Northwestern University (Illinois), members of Engineers for a Sustainable World, have raised enough funds to pay for most of the cost of a new two-pump system for the village of Tres Hermanos, and to cover their travel costs to go participate in the installation. We will be there for 4 weeks until July 20. Stay tuned for a report and photos!
