2008 Environment Award Laureate Practical Action Laureate Country: Peru Project Country: Peru Website: www.solucionespracticas.org.pe Video 2008videos/Practical_Action.mov Practical Action developed small-scale hydropower technology to bring electricity to isolated villages in Peru. In Peru, 6.5 million people live in remote villages without access to electricity. Extending the power grid across Peru’s mountains and jungles is nearly impossible and local diesel power stations produce harmful greenhouse gases. Practical Action looked to Peru’s many waterfalls for a solution. They adapted low-cost hydropower technology for small-scale use. Then they trained local technicians so that each village can tap nearby waterfalls for a clean source of energy. Today hydropower prevents the release of 34000 metric tons of carbon-dioxide emissions that diesel power stations would create, while delivering reliable, renewable power to 35000 people. About TheTech Museum The Tech Museum is a hands-on technology and science museum for people of all ages and backgrounds. The museum — located in the Capital of Silicon Valley — is a non-profit learning resource established to engage people in exploring and experiencing technologies affecting their lives. Through programs such as The Tech Challenge, our annual team design competition for youth, and internationally renowned programs such as The Tech Awards presented by Applied Materials, Inc., The Tech Museum celebrates the spirit of Silicon …