Solar-Powered Oxygen Delivery (SPO2)

The solar-powered oxygen delivery system converts ambient air into medical-grade oxygen using commercially available oxygen concentrators, charge controllers, battery banks, and solar panels. This system, customized for each location of implementation, collects solar energy during the day through solar panels and stores excess power in batteries (72 hours of power at full charge). Through this system, oxygen is produced, drawing power from the grid when possible and switching to solar/battery during outages.

Locally trained technicians

5-10 years

An initial pilot and randomized control trial at two sites in Uganda provided a proof-of-concept and met the criteria for noninferiority to traditional cylinder oxygen supplied. Initial results from scaling up the solar oxygen system to 20 health centers have shown a 58% reduction in mortality with a cost of 29 USD per disability-adjusted life year (DALY).

Filters should be replaced every 1-2 months, and sieve beds should be replaced every 6 months for the oxygen concentrator. The battery bank should be installed such that it cannot be tampered with and will be protected from potential damage.