July: Tile System Offsets Annual Electric Bill by 85%
Conservation International, Suriname
Project of the Month: February 2007
Bella Energy Powers South American Eco-Tourism Facility 
Conservation International, Suriname
Bella Energy Powers South American Eco-Tourism Facility
Team Comments
Chuck Hutchinson
Conservation International, Suriname, South America
Conservation International, Suriname, South America
"The solar power system has been working great at Foengoe Island, running the whole island including the new ecotourism lodge and pavilion"
Jim Welch
President, Bella Energy
President, Bella Energy
“This project demonstrates the reliability and cost effectiveness of solar in remote areas. It saves thousand of dollars in expensive diesel fuel brought in 60 miles by boat, while eliminating the risk of a fuel spill in one of the last large virgin rainforests on the planet.”
Conservation International, Suriname
In 2004, Bella Energy installed the solar pumping and electrical system for Conservation International on Foengoe Island, in the middle of Suriname. The 6 kW solar power system provides AC power for lights, and major appliances (fans, refrigerators) for a visitor center, two lodges and homes for the staff. The three-story, 150-foot-long visitor's center is the largest building ever constructed in the interior of Suriname. Overlooking dramatic rapids in the Coppename River, it features state-of-the-art potable water and septic systems. This project meets the highest international, environmental, and conservation standards for ecotourism facilities.