Both energy efficiency and energy supply are hot topics in the mining industry as we tackle opportunities to drive down costs and reduce its footprint. CEEC is keen to share news of developments which may impact the way we operate, develop and plan future projects. Sustainability prizes like the Zayed Sustainability Prize showcase inspiring examples that miners can optimise in driving energy efficiency, not only in operations, but in neighbouring communities.
A plug-and-pay solar devices bringing clean, affordable energy solutions to more than 675,000 people in Africa, South America and the Pacific region has taken out the energy category of the US$600,000 Zayed Sustainability Prize.
UK-based energy solutions provider, BBOXX, has installed its system in more than 160,000 homes, offering users an on-grid experience in an off-grid setting, and off-setting around 87,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions a year.
The Zayed Sustainability Prize, the prestigious global award based in the United Arab Emirates, has awarded the 2019 prize for the Energy category to BBOXX, a company based in the US. The category prize is for US$600,000.
BBOXX, an energy solutions provider, was recognised for its plug-and-play solar device, offering users an on-grid experience in an off-grid setting. BBOXX has installed more than 160,000 solar home systems across Africa, South America and the Pacific region, connecting more than 675,000 people with clean, affordable energy solutions, and offsetting an approximate 87,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year.
“We are generating impact by improving customers’ quality of life through provision of affordable, clean energy solutions. Today, we offer pay-as-you-go solar power,” BBOXX said.
“Our aim is to expand rapidly to provide other vital utility services, such as cooking, internet access and water. We are constantly searching and realising innovative solutions to provide the best value services to our customers.
“At the heart of BBOXX is our pioneering management platform, called Pulse, which continuously collects data and insights, enabling us to provide our services to previously unreachable populations. We are operating in 12 countries, including Rwanda, Kenya, Togo, DRC and Pakistan.”
The Zayed Sustainability Prize (ZSP) is a prestigious global award based in the United Arab Emirates. US$600,000 prizes are awarded in four categories: energy, water, health and food.
Originally established by the UAE leadership as the Zayed Future Energy Prize in 2008, the Zayed Sustainability Prize is a global award inspired by the sustainability legacy of the UAE’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed congratulated the winners and praised their efforts and valuable contribution to support sustainable development. He encouraged them to keep up the good work to find innovative and sustainable solutions to address current and future global challenges.
The ZSP is also awarded to high schools proposing sustainability education projects in these four areas. Winning high schools from different regions of the world are awarded US$100,000 each.
Business Outlook and Evaluation, a Melbourne-based company is the outreach partner for the ZSP in the Oceania region. The company assists interested organisations and schools in preparing proposals, free of charge.
More information on BBOXX here.
More information on the Zayed Sustainability Prize here.