This report investigates the critical role of renewable energy technologies in addressing water supply challenges within developing country villages.

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) commissioned this study to gather essential information on existing village water supply programs in developing nations. The objective is to inform the development of renewable energy-driven technologies for water supply and treatment that are specifically designed for implementation, operation, and maintenance by local villagers. Furthermore, the report outlines a methodology for introducing such technologies to rural communities, offering valuable insights for manufacturers and suppliers within the renewable energy sector.

This report serves as a foundational document for organizations like NREL aiming to bridge the gap between renewable energy potential and the practical needs of developing communities. It provides a strategic framework for technology introduction, emphasizing local capacity building for sustainability. The document is structured to be directly useful to both technology developers and the communities they aim to serve, highlighting a practical approach to sustainable development.