Many villagers in rural communities rely on solid fuels like coal, dung, and wood to cook their food. Most of the time this is done indoors, which leads to millions of deaths around the globe every year because of constant smoke inhalation.

The SolSource is a solar cooker. One Earth Designs has been perfecting this product for several years. Previous versions are currently being used all over the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, which is actually the sunniest place in China. The latest model (pictured above) is a very simple and elegant design that’s safe, efficient, and convenient to carry/assemble/use.

Monday was a clear, sunny day in Hong Kong, so the team decided to take the SolSource up to the roof of our building and run a few tests! The SolSource boiled water in just 10 minutes, reaching a maximum temperature of 98-99 degrees Celsius. Since it was close to lunchtime, we thought it wouldn’t hurt to scramble a few eggs as well.

This was my first time observing the SolSource in action. I could tell that the team was really proud of it’s performance. I’m excited to work alongside and learn from such a passionate group of professionals. With the SolSource and other projects, I’m confident that One Earth Designs is going to impact so many lives in the Himalayan region and beyond.

-TCF