From 100th Object to 100s of solar projects

Today's news that the solar lamp and charger was the 100th Object was a terrific boost for those of us who see the enormous potential for local renewable energy solutions across the developing world.

Each year we are amazed by the excellence of business models and improved technologies used to bring solar power to the world’s poorest and the most remote parts of the world. This year was no exception. In 2010 we rewarded the work of TECNOSOL for providing solar powered electricity throughout rural Nicaragua, the Rural Energy Foundation for developing and strengthening the solar energy supply chain across sub-Saharan Africa and d.light design for making low cost, high quality, durable solar lanterns available to people in developing countries that have never had access to modern light.

Our winners are working in every sense to build a sustainable infrastructure and the local expertise to ensure modern energy can be accessed by rural communities. From training solar technicians and bringing affordable lighting to communities in Ethiopia, providing affordable solar power for small businesses in India to providing micro-finance for solar home systems.

We're delighted BBC Radio Four has recognised the power of solar in their ‘History of the World’.