Coffee Producers in Costa Rica Reap Rewards of New Solar Technology

Using the latest solar technology, a Canadian-led partnership is helping coffee producers in Costa Rica save energy and help the environment. Trade Counselor Sylvy Gariepy of the Canadian Embassy in Costa Rica recently unveiled a new solar coffee-drying test site in Tilaran -- the largest of its kind in Central America.

"This is an exciting day for the future of solar energy in agricultural applications," said Ms. Gariepy. "This facility exemplifies the unlimited potential and benefits of this renewable energy source."

The site was developed by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), the Government of Canada's Technology Early Action Measures (TEAM) program, Conserval Engineering Inc. of Toronto, and Coopeldos R.L., a coffee-growing cooperative in Costa Rica.

"This project is another example of Canada's leadership in developing innovative approaches to reducing greenhouse gas emissions that will have lasting benefits at home and around the world," said the Honourable R. John Efford, Minister of Natural Resources Canada. "Increasing energy efficiency and using clean, renewable energy sources are essential to addressing climate change."

At the Tilaran plant, 850 square meters of Conserval's Solarwall panels were installed on the roof. Intake fans draw in warmed air from the perforated panels to dry the coffee beans. The Solarwall technology was developed with support from NRCan, is 40% more efficient and costs 25% less than conventional solar products.

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