Solar heating in Colombia

Sammanfattning: This report describes the process of a thesis implemented in Colombia concerning solar energy. The project was to install a self-circulating solar heating system, as well as creating exchange of knowledge regarding renewable energy. One of the two major goals of the project was to achieve a functioning solar heating system in Timbio, a village outside the city of Popayán in south west Colombia. The purpose was to use the free power from the sun and show people how to use it in a way that is not complicated or too expensive. The second major goal was to hold workshops about renewable energy in general, and solar energy in particular. The preparatory work started in October 2010 by concretizing the project, applying for scholarships and establishing necessary contacts; both in Colombia and Sweden. Research and correspondence continued throughout 2011, along with the search for finance from companies and funds to cover the project costs. The implementation took approximately three months and was finished in April 2012. However, the project was limited due to time scale and financial resources. The project was successful; a functioning solar heater and workshops. The aim to arise interest for renewable energy is fulfilled plus the aim to show how to use solar energy in a practical and useful way.