Dell Solar Community Hubs

SOLAR COMMUNITY HUBS Bringing access to technology and skills to communities everywhere

Solar Community Hubs

Solar Community Hubs bring essential resources to communities around the globe. From providing electricity and internet access to delivering clean water and healthcare support, these hubs are tailored to meet the unique needs of each community. With flexible designs—including fixed, portable and mobile models—we partner with Computer Aid International and others to empower local populations with tools and training for the digital economy.
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The right hub for the community

Solar Community Hubs come in three models and are selected based on the particular needs of each community.

Fixed

A fixed hub is two recycled shipping containers transformed into an internet center using a combination of solar power, energy-efficient desktops, notebooks and air-cooled servers.

These hubs provide:

  • Access to the internet, digital technology and skill-building opportunities
  • An expanded space for community support and networking
  • Community services including healthcare, biodiversity preservation and economic opportunities
  • Sustainable access to water and solar-powered electricity
  • Capacity to support remote areas and create an ecosystem to support communities

Mobile

A mobile hub is a technology-equipped van that offers self-paced learning content and training curriculum. The mobile model allows us to move vans from one location to another, providing internet access and computer technology to those who need it when they need it most.

These hubs provide:

  • Access to the internet, digital technology and skill building opportunities
  • Access to technology, including laptops and television screens for broadcasting messages
  • 4G internet-enabled hotspot to help the community access online services
  • Solar power

Portable Connectivity Center (PCC)

A Portable Connectivity Center is a fully-kitted, customized shipping container that is converted into an easy-to-power community center. The goal of these centers is to provide community relief, internet connectivity and access to medical services to those impacted by crisis or disaster.

These hubs provide:

  • Access to the internet, digital technology and skill building opportunities
  • A tool to combat human trafficking, by offering displaced individuals a secure resource and education to the dangers
  • Healthcare services through the N50 consortium experts in telehealth
  • Restoration of government functions, through provision access to passports, information about local food, shelter and financial services resources

Providing sustainable solutions to community challenges

Digital inclusion

Each hub connects community members to technology and skill building opportunities, advancing digital inclusion and helping them participate in a digital world.

Community-first

We take a community-first approach, first understanding the needs of the community and then tailoring each hub to fit those needs.

Climate action

Hubs are solar powered, using energy-efficient and power-efficient technology to minimize their impact on the climate.

Circular economy

The hubs are built in-country from refurbished shipping containers, supporting a circular economy.

Education

All hubs provide education opportunities. Some hubs offer accredited training to achieve industry-recognized certifications such as ICDL (International Certificate of Digital Literacy) certifications.

Biodiversity

Some hubs feature biodiversity preservation activities such as deforestation monitoring and rainwater collection.

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