Activity Description: Bombay-based NGO Grameen Surya Bijlee Foundation (GSBF) is introducing LED lighting technology into rural India.

The Light Emitting Diodes used in GSBF's lamps are four times more efficient than incandescent bulbs, solar powered by a photovoltaic panel, and produce nearly 200 times more useful light than the prevalently used, indoor air polluting, kerosense lamps.

While GSBF's lamps, including installation, cost $45 each, the LED technology can light an entire village using less energy than a single conventional 100 watt light bulb.

The full range of GSBF's program includes design, field testing, mass manufacturing, funding, installation, maintenance, and replacements. Having successfully completed a Seed Proram, GSBF now plans to scale up in 500 village home increments.