Exploring Solar Energy Integration in Ugandan Health Centers: Evaluating the Implementation of Heliophotovoltaic Solutions for Rural Healthcare
Mundu, M. M1, Nnamchi, S. N2, Ssempewo, J. I3 and Umi O. B4
1Department of Electrical, Telecommunication and Computer Engineering, Kampala International University, P.O. Box 20000, Kampala, Uganda. Email: mundu.mustafa@kiu.ac.ug, ORCID; https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1345-9999.
2Department of Mechanical Engineering, Kampala International University, P.O. Box 20000, Kampala, Uganda, Email: stephen.nnamchi@kiu.ac.ug, ORCID; https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6368-2913.
3Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, Design Art and Technology, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda, Email: sempewo@cedat.mak.ac.ug, ORCID; https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9897-211x.
4Kampala International University Teaching Hospital, Western Campus, Ishaka, Uganda. Email: umi.omar@kiu.ac.ug
ABSTRACT
This study presents a comprehensive examination of the impact of integrating solar energy into healthcare delivery in rural Uganda. Utilizing an extensive equation encompassing factors such as cost savings, operational efficiency, healthcare outcomes, and environmental impact, the research uncovers a holistic benefit of sustainable energy adoption into Uganda Health Centers. Key findings suggest that beyond serving as a reliable and sustainable power source, solar energy integration has the potential to revolutionize rural healthcare. The equation reveals promising outcomes, including redirected resources for critical healthcare needs, improved operational efficiency, and positive healthcare outcomes. The environmental benefits, coupled with the scalability of solar models, emphasize a sustainable future for rural healthcare. The study concludes with a compelling call to action, urging stakeholders to collaborate in swift implementation, policy development, and research initiatives. Recommendations include targeted policies, funding for solar infrastructure, and ongoing research into region-specific considerations. This work serves as a reagent for a sustainable transformation in healthcare delivery, advocating for a brighter and healthier future for underserved communities in Uganda and other countries with similar challenges.
Keywords: Solar Energy Integration, Rural Healthcare, Cost Savings, Operational Efficiency, Sustainable Transformation
CITE AS: Mundu, M. M., Nnamchi, S. N., Ssempewo, J. I. and Umi O. B. (2024). Exploring Solar Energy Integration in Ugandan Health Centers: Evaluating the Implementation of Heliophotovoltaic Solutions for Rural Healthcare. INOSR Scientific Research 11(1):72-81. https://doi.org/10.59298/INOSRSR/2024/1.1.17281