The purpose of the class was to tour energy project sites in order to learn what it takes to implement a community-based renewable energy project. The students participated in discussions and activities with many key people in the process, including governmental officials, NGOs, community organizers and the communities who would benefit from the renewable energy systems once they were put in place.
One highlight of the trip came when Jaime Munoz, director of Asofenix, a local NGO, and one of the hosts of the trip, organized a community meeting in Sonzapote to implement a potable water project. The people of Sonzapote had to haul water a great distance from a well and badly needed better access to a water supply. They were next in line to receive a solar water pump and running water. Participating in the meeting was an eye-opening experience for the students and made the 1 ½ hour hike to get there well worth it.
Students got hands-on experience with installing the motor of a coffee de-pulper and assisting with the installation of grounding wires while observing the process of bean processing. Students also got to see the solar array that powers the water pump in Bromadero and a micro-hydro project in Malacatoya as well as San Jose de los Remates, a town in Boaco with modern amenities including an internet café.
The students’ accommodations were as varied as the communities they visited. Whether staying in a schoolhouse, a hostel or someone’s private home, the students were welcomed.
According to Juan, “the trip put into perspective how easy things are in this country and how detached from the realities of the rest of the world we are.”
