Transfer of photovoltaic technology to developing countries

A recent World Wildlife Foundation study has evidenced the difficulties encountered, due mainly to the lack of sufficient investment capital and a coordinated approach, in the successful transfer of photovoltaic energy technology to developing countries. In discussing the findings of the WWF's study, this paper draws up a list of recommendations for future technology transfer programs. It puts emphasis on the need for the adoption of an integrated technology transfer process which, taking into account the specific socio-economic characteristics of proposed sites, promotes the development of viable local markets for photovoltaic energy, and which stresses the training of local citizens to operate and maintain not only the photovoltaic units but also all the auxiliary support systems associated with them