KAPEG - White LED Commercialisation

Posted by Todd Houstein to KAPEG (Kathmandu Alternative Power and Energy), 5th March 2010, 10:03am
Location: , Nepal Link to google map
Applications close 5th April 2010

Download the application form here (Word doc 131kB)

Partner Description

KAPEG (Kathmandu Alternative Power and Energy) are a small organisation based in Dhulikel who develop alternative energy products and services with local manufacturing and materials to increase employment and provide affordable and appropriate alternative power sources. KAPEG’s projects include wind turbine development, solar timber drying, timber quality assessment (for use in wind power) and production of white LED lamps.

Project Background

KAPEG have traditionally been involved in research and development of appropriate alternative power. They are now investigating the commercialisation of their own products in order to become financially sustainable and reduce reliance on external funding. This has potential to generate income and employment for KAPEG staff but generate livelihoods through employment for the local community.

Daily blackouts in the dry season in Kathmandu can be as long as 22 hours. Hence, there is a signifcant need for alternatively powered lighting. Rechargeable energy efficient white LED (WLED) lamps are readily available but most are cheap, low quality imports. KAPEG has identified an opportunity to manufacture higher quality lamps for reading and general lighting. KAPEG intends to use staff experience in manufacturing WLED lights and with assistance from an EWB volunteer, improve the design and commercialisation of WLED lighting in Nepal. The project requires the volunteer to take a lead role in training KAPEG staff in the following:

1. Design review
2. Market survey
3. Determining the economic justification/benefits of better lighting
4. Identifying parts suppliers
5. Identifying potential buyers
6. Determining: market, design, price, manufacturing technique, parts, production processes and quantity
7. Review/identify technical or commercial problems with the product and address as appropriate
8. Run a trial of the WLED system

Timing

The role consists of three important phases beginning June 2010, including a 5-month field secondment in Nepal commencing in August 2010.
 

Phase 1: Pre-departure –  June 2010

• Pre-departure preparation (medical clearances, training, administrative)
• Linking with the Australian based EWB project team if required for the project
• Linking with a local EWB chapter to enhance your resources and support networks and create opportunities for sharing your experience with members

Phase 2: Field operations – August 2010

• Departure to host country and partner organisations
• Undertaking specific role within partner organisation
• Linking with EWB Field Officers to develop appropriate ‘Learning & Change’ materials to share with EWB members and partner organisations

Phase 3: Post field alumni – 2011

• Return to Australia to collaborate with the project team, knowledge hub (if relevant( and with an EWB chapter for a minimum period of 12 months
• Participate in various EWB events including the National Conference and intake presentation evenings
• Participate in the development and dissemination of ‘Learning & Change’ materials within the EWB community
• Mentor future field volunteers preparing to work with the partner organisation

Applications

Please complete the volunteer application form and attach a statement addressing how you meet the selection criteria. We cannot assess applications that do not address the selection criteria.

Applications close on Monday 5th April 2010.

Please complete the volunteer application form and attach a statement addressing how you meet the selection criteria. We cannot assess applications that do not address the selection criteria.

Please DO NOT attach CVs, references or any other documentation. For more information contact Ian Cunningham at the National Office.

Email: i.cunningham   *at*    ewb.org.au
Ph:+61 3 9696 9040
Fax:+61 3 9696 9034

Criteria

Essential

• Relevant tertiary degree or practical experience
• Demonstrated experience in commercialisation
• Demonstrated ability to be flexible and adaptable in a project application
• Background in renewable energy and/or design

Desirable

• Experience working overseas or in remote areas
• Cultural sensitivity
• Nepali or Hindi language skills
• Experience in a training or teaching role
• Experience in industrial design

Additional Secondment Information

Allowances

• Volunteers will receive an allowance for living and basic accommodation.
• Volunteers will be provided with airfares at the commencement and completion of the placement, plus basic travel insurance and emergency evacuation insurance.

Confirmation of secondment is subject to:

• Formal approval from EWB and the partner organisation.
• Procurement of visa and work permits.
• Satisfactory completion of a first aid certificate.
• Satisfactory participation in a pre-departure briefing run by EWB (in July 2010)
• A satisfactory medical examination of the applicant.
• A satisfactory criminal record check of the applicant and accompanying adults by the Australian Police.

EWB adheres to statutory laws in Australia and foreign countries regarding child exploitation, child pornography and the abuse of children. We are committed to the protection of children from all forms of harm.

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