We are thrilled to share the incredible work of our Director, Prof. Frank-Martin Belz, and our PhD Researcher, Dr. Esther Salvi, as featured in the TUM Science Magazine (Wissenschaftsmagazin) Edition 30, September 2023. 📖

Addressing a Global Challenge
Approximately 700 million people worldwide lack access to electricity, with the majority residing in sub-Saharan Africa, far from national power grids. Prof. Belz's work through the SEED Center focuses on mini-grids, consisting of photovoltaic systems and batteries, which provide affordable and reliable electricity to entire villages. This electricity empowers communities to run mills, irrigate fields with water pumps, and boost local economies.

The SEED Center envision a world where sustainable energy and entrepreneurship converge to drive change. Its goal extends beyond scientific publications; it involves setting up real-world "living labs" in rural areas, where mini-grids are constructed to supply renewable energy to communities.

Dr. Esther Salvi's Interdisciplinary Study
Dr. Salvi dedicated weeks to immersing herself in Mali's rural communities, where she interacted with a diverse array of entrepreneurs, shopkeepers, farmers, and leaders. Through her exploration, she brought to light the pivotal role that these informal entrepreneurs play in shaping both society and local development. Her research underscores a striking revelation: contrary to common perceptions of impoverished rural regions, these areas possess a wealth of intangible treasures, including cultural customs, traditions, and social cohesion. It is these very informal elements that serve as the foundation for thriving entrepreneurship in Mali, and they are deeply ingrained in the societal values, transcending formal rules and regulations.

Learn More in the TUM Science Magazine (Wissenschaftsmagazin) Edition 30, September 2023.
You can read more on the 34th-41st page of the magazine here