Solar Community Hubs
Modular microgrids bringing reliable renewable energy, clean water, and digital connectivity to communities without grid access.
The Challenge
Millions of people in rural Mexico lack access to reliable electricity. Even communities with grid connections face frequent outages, making economic development and modern infrastructure impossible.
Without power, there's no water purification, no internet connectivity, no refrigeration for medicines or food, and limited opportunity for economic activity after sunset.
Our Solution
We design and install Solar Community Hubs—modular microgrid systems engineered by UT Austin students and faculty to meet the specific needs of each community.
Reliable Power
Solar panels with battery storage provide 24/7 electricity for homes, schools, and community centers.
Clean Water
UV-C purification systems powered by solar energy provide safe drinking water without chemicals.
Digital Access
Community WiFi enables education, telemedicine, e-commerce, and connection to the wider world.
Energy Storage
Battery systems ensure consistent power through the night and during cloudy weather.
Technical Design
Every Solar Hub is custom-designed by engineering teams from UT Austin's Cockrell School of Engineering based on community needs assessment data.
System Components
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Photovoltaic solar panels (sizing based on load analysis)
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Lithium-ion battery storage systems
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Charge controllers and inverters
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UV-C water purification units
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WiFi routers and networking equipment
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Distribution panels and wiring infrastructure
Design Standards
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Engineered to global reliability standards
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Modular design for easy expansion
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Built with locally-available replacement parts
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Designed for community-led maintenance
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Weather-resistant for Oaxaca climate
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25+ year system lifespan
From Design to Installation
1. Community Assessment
We work with communities to understand energy needs, water quality issues, and connectivity requirements.
2. Technical Design
UT Austin engineering students create detailed system designs, run load calculations, and validate approaches through simulation.
3. Collaborative Installation
University teams work alongside community members to install systems, transferring technical knowledge in the process.
4. Training & Handover
Comprehensive training ensures community members can operate and maintain systems independently.
Impact
24/7
Reliable electricity access
100%
Chemical-free water purification
25+
Years system lifespan
Solar Hubs don't just provide power—they unlock economic opportunity, improve health outcomes, and enable digital connection to the broader world.
Technical Credits
Engineering Design: The University of Texas at Austin, Cockrell School of Engineering
All systems undergo rigorous testing and validation to ensure they meet global standards for reliability, safety, and performance.
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