Arctic Sigluaq Solar Solutions

The specific problem Arctic Sigluaq Solar Solutions addresses is the multifaceted challenge of providing reliable and sustainable energy to remote Arctic communities. Currently, these communities heavily rely on the transportation of fuel via planes, barges, and ice roads, leading to substantial economic, environmental, and logistical issues.

Economic Costs:
Transporting fuel to remote Arctic villages incurs high costs due to the challenges posed by the region's harsh conditions. The expenses associated with plane charters, barge shipments, and maintaining ice roads contribute to elevated fuel prices. This economic burden disproportionately affects Indigenous communities, exacerbating existing socio-economic disparities.

Environmental Costs/Risks:
The environmental costs are significant. The combustion of fossil fuels during transportation contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating climate change impacts on the Arctic ecosystem. Moreover, the transportation of fuel via planes and barges increases the risk of spills, posing a direct threat to the delicate Arctic environment.

Logistical Challenges:
Arctic communities face logistical challenges in transporting fuel, primarily due to weather-dependent modes of transportation. Unpredictable weather conditions can lead to delays and disruptions in fuel deliveries, affecting the daily lives of residents who depend on a steady energy supply for heating, lighting, and other essential needs.

Reduction of Generator Use:
Arctic Sigluaq Solar Solutions directly mitigates these challenges by providing a sustainable, locally producible energy source. The reduction of generator use not only addresses economic, environmental, and logistical issues but also has a positive impact on the communities' way of life. The decrease in noise pollution from generator use brings wildlife closer to the villages.

Wildlife Impact:
As generator use decreases, the reduction in noise pollution positively affects wildlife behavior. This easing of noise disturbance brings wildlife closer to the villages, creating a more harmonious coexistence. For these Arctic communities, where subsistence hunting can contribute up to 80% of daily calories, having wildlife in closer proximity enhances the feasibility and success of subsistence hunting.

Scale of the Problem:
The scale of this problem is extensive, affecting numerous Indigenous communities across the Arctic, including the Iñupiat, Inuit, Gwich'in, Aleut, and others. Globally, reliance on fossil fuels and the associated challenges of transportation and environmental impact are shared concerns.

Statistics:
Local statistics highlight the economic strain of high fuel prices in remote Arctic communities, while global statistics emphasize the urgency of transitioning to sustainable energy practices to combat climate change.

Arctic Sigluaq Solar Solutions offers a comprehensive solution by addressing economic, environmental, and logistical challenges while fostering a more sustainable and wildlife-friendly environment for these Arctic communities.

Sigluaq Solar introduces an innovative solar panel technology inspired by biomimicry and empowered by advanced 3D printing. Our solution overcomes the limitations of traditional solar panels in extreme Arctic conditions, offering increased efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.

At the heart of our technology is the biomimicry-inspired design drawn from butterfly wing structure patterns. These intricate patterns, proven to enhance solar concentration in nature, are replicated using state-of-the-art 3D nano-printing techniques. The resulting reflective solar sheets are precisely angled at 17°, mimicking the V-trough concentrator found in butterflies.

The process begins with the creation of these reflective nanostructures through 3D nano-printing. This method allows us to produce intricate and scalable designs that were previously challenging with conventional manufacturing. The lightweight and efficient reflective sheets are then integrated into solar panels.

In experimental tests, attaching these biomimetic wings to solar cells demonstrated a remarkable 42.3% increase in power output. This improvement is a game-changer for regions with extended periods of darkness and harsh weather conditions, such as the Arctic. The technology's adaptability to low-light conditions and extreme temperatures positions it as an ideal solution for challenging environments.

Moreover, the 3D printing process significantly reduces the weight and bulkiness of reflective materials, addressing critical logistical challenges in transporting materials to remote Arctic locations. Given that transportation costs are often determined by weight, this weight reduction not only makes the technology more feasible for transportation but also facilitates easier deployment and installation in challenging Arctic terrains. 

The design's efficiency is further demonstrated through solar fraction rates, showcasing rates of 61.9% with a 90° tilt and 69.3% with a 60° tilt. Additionally, there is a notable 17-fold increase in the power-to-weight ratio, emphasizing the transformative potential of our technology.

Sigluaq Solar's visionary approach extends beyond revolutionizing solar panels. We integrate 3D printing technology not only for our biomimicry-inspired solar solutions but also for community empowerment. Our 3D printers can remotely share files, aiding scalability in isolated areas. This innovative approach enables efficient air dropping of pellets to remote villages, ensuring timely access to essential goods. When idle, these printers contribute to local development by producing various necessary items, mitigating inequality and fostering self-sustainability. Sigluaq Solar's impact extends beyond energy, addressing logistical challenges and promoting holistic community development.

Sigluaq Solar's solution is not just a technological advancement but a paradigm shift in making solar energy economically viable and environmentally sustainable in regions where it was previously deemed impractical. The combination of biomimicry, 3D printing, and precise nanostructures creates solar panels that meet the criteria for federal tax credits, making clean energy more accessible and incentivizing adoption.

Sigluaq Solar is dedicated to benefiting Indigenous communities across the northern latitudes, including the Inupiat, Inuit, Gwich'in, Aleut, and others. Our approach centers on directly and meaningfully improving the lives of these communities through culturally sensitive and sustainable energy solutions.

Understanding and Engaging Communities: We actively engage with community members to understand their unique needs. This involves ongoing dialogue, community meetings, and collaboration with local leaders to ensure that our solutions align with the cultural, social, and environmental context of each community. This collaborative approach is fundamental to our commitment to being Indigenous-led and community-driven.

Addressing Specific Needs:

1. Energy Independence: Many northern communities face energy challenges due to remote locations and harsh climates. Sigluaq Solar's solutions aim to provide reliable and sustainable energy sources, reducing dependence on non-renewable alternatives.

2. Economic Empowerment: By incorporating 3D printing technology, our solutions extend beyond energy. Localized manufacturing through 3D printing offers the potential for job creation, skill development, and economic empowerment within these communities.

3. Cultural Preservation: Indigenous communities have a deep connection to their lands and traditions. Our solutions are designed to minimize environmental impact and contribute to the preservation of these cultural ties, ensuring a sustainable future.

4. Reducing Inequality: The ability of our 3D printers to produce various goods locally addresses issues of inequality by reducing wait times for necessary items. This can positively impact daily life, providing communities with greater self-sufficiency.

Indigenous-Led and Community-Driven: Sigluaq Solar operates with a strong commitment to being Indigenous-led. We actively involve community members in decision-making processes, ensuring that our solutions not only benefit but are shaped by the communities they serve.

Our solution is tailored to address the specific needs of Indigenous communities across the northern latitudes, promoting energy independence, economic empowerment, cultural preservation, and a reduction in inequality. By collaborating directly with these communities, we aim to foster lasting positive change that respects and enhances their unique ways of life.

My proximity stems from being Iñupiat and born in Utqiagvik, with family dispersed throughout Alaska, primarily in the Arctic region. This personal connection allows us to intimately understand the communities we serve. We actively engage community members, seeking their input and ideas, ensuring our solutions are deeply rooted in their needs and aspirations. With each team member committed to respecting and incorporating local knowledge, we're well-positioned to deliver impactful and sustainable solutions.

Our team's unique composition is myself and Maliona Rose Powell from Moloka'i, which reflects a deep understanding of indigenous communities we aim to serve. With dual degrees in Anthropology and Environmental Science, coupled with a Master's in Climate and Society from Columbia University, my colleague brings both cultural sensitivity and scientific expertise. My 13 years of prior energy experience combined with my economics background from Willamette University complements this, ensuring a well-rounded approach.

Concept

Sigluaq Solar is in the concept stage, drawing from the foundational research stage represented by my thesis, which garnered a nomination for Department Honors. The research laid the groundwork for our current exploration of biomimicry-inspired butterfly wing structure patterns in solar energy technology. While we haven't yet developed a functioning prototype, the academic recognition underscores the robust research and feasibility exploration supporting our innovative solar solution.

I'm applying to Solve because it offers a unique platform to address multifaceted challenges associated with implementing sustainable energy solutions in remote indigenous communities, particularly across the northern latitudes. Our project, Sigluaq Solar LLC, confronts financial, technical, and logistical barriers inherent in deploying renewable energy infrastructure in these challenging environments. Solve's network and resources can facilitate critical connections with partners who understand the specific needs and nuances of these communities, providing invaluable insights and support.

Financially, Solve can help us connect with potential investors, donors, or partners who share our vision for sustainable energy solutions in indigenous communities. This support is crucial for overcoming the financial barriers associated with research, development, and implementation.

From a technical standpoint, Solve can connect us with experts and collaborators who specialize in renewable energy, 3D printing, and community engagement. This expertise is vital for navigating the technical challenges unique to our project and ensuring its success.

On the legal front, Solve's network can provide guidance on navigating regulations and policies related to renewable energy projects in indigenous communities. This support is essential for ensuring compliance and smooth project execution.

Culturally, Solve's emphasis on community-driven solutions aligns with our approach. By connecting us with like-minded partners and experts familiar with the cultural intricacies of the communities we serve, Solve can help tailor our solution to be culturally sensitive and inclusive.

Regarding market barriers, Solve's network offers opportunities to engage with potential customers, collaborators, and stakeholders. This can contribute to the development of a sustainable market for our solution, ensuring its long-term impact and viability.

In summary, I see Solve as a catalyst for overcoming the multifaceted challenges we face. The platform's unique ability to connect us with a diverse range of partners aligns with our holistic approach to addressing financial, technical, legal, cultural, and market barriers. We believe that by participating in Solve, we can leverage collective expertise and resources to drive meaningful change in remote indigenous communities.

Our Team Lead, William Uvyuaq Lomer, is deeply connected to the community of Utqiagvik, where the Sigluaq Solar LLC research started as a thesis. Being born in Utqiagvik, Will is Iñupiat, and his familial ties extend throughout the Arctic, as well as other parts of Alaska and Canada. This personal connection is more than a geographical link; it's an understanding of the cultural, social, and environmental context in which the project operates. Will's roots in the community enable him to navigate the complexities and nuances of implementing a sustainable energy solution in the Arctic. This connection ensures that the project's design and implementation are not only technically sound but also deeply considerate of the unique needs and perspectives of the communities it aims to serve.

Arctic Sigluaq Solar Solutions is innovative in its intersection of biomimicry-inspired solar technology, 3D nano-printing, and local empowerment to revolutionize energy access in remote Arctic communities. Key aspects of its innovation include:

1. Biomimicry-Inspired Design: The solution draws inspiration from White Cabbage butterfly wing patterns, employing biomimicry to enhance the efficiency of solar panels. This innovative approach leverages nature's designs, optimizing solar energy absorption and concentration. This biomimetic design sets ArcticSolarWings apart from traditional solar solutions, offering increased efficiency in low-light Arctic conditions.

2. Advanced 3D Nano-Printing: Arctic Sigluaq Solar Solutions utilizes cutting-edge 3D nano-printing techniques to replicate intricate butterfly wing patterns at a nano-scale. This allows for the creation of reflective solar sheets with optimal angles, mimicking the V-trough concentrator found in nature. The precision of nano-printing enables the fabrication of lightweight and scalable reflective nanostructures, addressing historical challenges in the weight and bulkiness of reflective materials.

3. Local Production and Reduced Dependency: Unlike conventional energy solutions that rely on the transportation of fuel, Arctic Sigluaq Solar Solutions promotes local production of energy. By harnessing the Arctic's abundant sunlight, communities can generate power on-site, reducing dependence on costly and logistically challenging fuel shipments. This localized approach enhances resilience and sustainability in the face of unpredictable weather conditions.

4. Community Engagement and Empowerment: The solution places a strong emphasis on community engagement. By actively involving community members in the design, implementation, and maintenance processes, Arctic Sigluaq Solar Solutions ensures that the solution aligns with local needs and cultural contexts. This approach empowers communities to take ownership of their energy sources, fostering a sense of self-sufficiency and resilience.

5. Noise Reduction and Wildlife Harmony: Beyond its primary goal of providing clean energy, Arctic Sigluaq Solar Solutions innovatively addresses secondary issues. The reduction of generator use leads to decreased noise pollution, creating a more harmonious environment for wildlife. This aligns with the principles of sustainability and conservation, showcasing the solution's holistic impact on the Arctic ecosystem.

6. Catalyzing Positive Impacts: Arctic Sigluaq Solar Solutions has the potential to catalyze broader positive impacts by serving as a scalable model for sustainable energy solutions in remote environments worldwide. Its biomimetic and nano-printing technologies can influence advancements in solar efficiency beyond the Arctic, impacting global efforts to transition to clean energy.

7. Changing the Market/Landscape: The success of Arctic Sigluaq Solar Solutions could challenge the dominance of traditional energy sources in remote Arctic markets. Its local production model and reduced environmental footprint may inspire a shift toward sustainable alternatives, influencing the broader energy landscape by showcasing the viability of biomimicry and 3D nano-printing in solar technology.

In summary, Arctic Sigluaq Solar Solutions innovatively integrates biomimicry, advanced nano-printing, and community engagement to provide sustainable energy solutions, aiming not only to meet the immediate needs of Arctic communities but also to inspire a broader transformation in energy practices and paradigms.

Arctic Sigluaq Solar Solutions operates on a comprehensive theory of change, linking its activities to immediate outputs and long-term outcomes for Arctic communities:

Activities:

1. Biomimicry-Inspired Technology: Arctic Sigluaq Solar Solutions deploys biomimicry-inspired solar technology, mimicking White Cabbage butterfly wing structure patterns to optimize solar energy absorption. This innovative design is implemented through advanced 3D nano-printing techniques.

2. Community Engagement: Actively involving community members in the design, installation, and maintenance of the solar panels ensures a sense of ownership and cultural relevance. This engagement fosters trust and ensures that the solution meets local needs.

3. Localized Energy Production: By harnessing Arctic sunlight for on-site energy production, Arctic Sigluaq Solar Solutions reduces dependence on fuel shipments via planes, barges, or ice roads. This activity directly addresses the logistical and environmental challenges associated with fuel transport in the Arctic.

4. Reduced Generator Use: The introduction of solar panels reduces reliance on noisy generators, leading to a quieter environment. This reduction in noise pollution benefits wildlife and aids subsistence hunting, providing an immediate positive impact on daily life in Arctic communities.

Outputs:

1. Functional Solar Panel Systems: The implementation of biomimetic solar panels through 3D nano-printing results in efficient, lightweight, and scalable systems that generate clean energy.

2. Empowered Communities: Through active engagement, communities are empowered to take charge of their energy sources, fostering a sense of self-sufficiency and resilience.

3. Localized Energy Independence: Arctic Sigluaq Solar Solutions outputs localized energy production, reducing the need for external fuel sources and enhancing community resilience in the face of unpredictable weather conditions.

4. Reduced Noise Pollution: The adoption of solar energy decreases reliance on noisy generators, immediately reducing noise pollution and creating a more harmonious environment for both human and wildlife populations.

Outcomes:

1. Sustainable Energy Access: The availability of clean, locally produced energy ensures sustainable access for Arctic communities, contributing to improved living standards and reducing reliance on environmentally taxing fuel sources.

2. Environmental Harmony: The reduction in noise pollution contributes to a harmonious coexistence between human communities and wildlife, particularly benefiting subsistence hunting, which can constitute a significant portion of daily caloric intake.

3. Economic and Social Benefits: Localized energy production decreases the economic burden of fuel transportation, leading to potential cost savings. Furthermore, the empowerment of communities through engagement creates positive social dynamics and contributes to overall well-being.

4. Catalyzing Change Beyond Arctic Communities: The success of Arctic Sigluaq Solar Solutions in providing sustainable energy solutions to remote Arctic regions can inspire broader change globally. It serves as a model for the integration of biomimicry, 3D nano-printing, and community engagement in addressing energy challenges in diverse environments.

In essence, Arctic Sigluaq Solar Solutions, through its innovative design, community-centric approach, and immediate positive outcomes, establishes a pathway to sustainable energy access, environmental harmony, and economic and social benefits for Arctic communities, with the potential to inspire transformative change beyond these regions.

Updated Impact Goals:

1. Energy Access:
   - Indicator: Percentage reduction in fossil fuel use within the target communities.
   - Progress Measurement: Regular monitoring of energy consumption patterns, comparing pre- and post-implementation data.

2. Environmental Harmony:
   - Indicator: Reduction in carbon emissions associated with fossil fuel use.
   - Progress Measurement: Calculating carbon emission reductions based on decreased fossil fuel consumption.

3. Economic Benefits:
   - Indicator: Estimated cost savings from reduced fossil fuel use over the life of the solar panel systems.
   - Progress Measurement: Collaborative data collection with community leaders and financial experts to assess the economic impact.

4. Community Empowerment:
   - Indicator: Percentage increase in village independence through reduced reliance on external goods.
   - Progress Measurement: Engaging community members in surveys and discussions to evaluate the impact on village sovereignty.

Integration with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

1. Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy:
   - Indicator: Contribution to global targets of reducing carbon emissions.
   - Progress Measurement: Aligning with SDG 7 targets for sustainable and modern energy access.

2. Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth:
   - Indicator: Calculating the economic benefits for communities.
   - Progress Measurement: Linking the reduction in fossil fuel use to SDG 8 targets related to economic growth.

3. Goal 13: Climate Action:
   - Indicator: Reduction in carbon emissions.
   - Progress Measurement: Contributing to SDG 13 targets for combating climate change.

4. Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure:
   - Indicator: Utilization of 3D printers for local production.
   - Progress Measurement: Aligning with SDG 9 targets related to innovation and infrastructure development.

5. Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities:
   - Indicator: Increase in village independence.
   - Progress Measurement: Supporting SDG 11 targets for sustainable urban and rural development.

By expanding our economic benefits to include a significant reduction in fossil fuel use and emphasizing community empowerment through local production and research capabilities, we enhance the transformative impact of our solution. Collaborative assessments, feedback sessions, and continuous engagement with the communities will guide our progress tracking, ensuring the alignment of our impact goals with the evolving needs and aspirations of the Arctic communities we serve.

Core Technology: Arctic Sigluaq Solar Solutions

Arctic Sigluaq Solar Solutions leverages advanced solar panel technology, biomimicry-inspired design, and 3D nano-printing to address the energy challenges in Arctic communities. Our innovative approach integrates modern science and traditional knowledge, ensuring sustainable development in remote, indigenous populations. Key components of our solution include:

1. Biomimicry-Inspired Solar Panel Design:
   - Description: Drawing inspiration from the nano structures of White Cabbage butterfly wing patterns, our solar panels replicate the V-trough concentrator found in nature. This design maximizes solar energy concentration onto photovoltaic cells, enhancing efficiency.
   - Innovation Impact: Increased energy output, reduced weight, and improved efficiency, contributing to the economic and environmental sustainability of remote communities.

2. 3D Nano-Printing Technology:
   - Description: We utilize advanced 3D nano-printing techniques to replicate intricate nano butterfly wing structures on solar sheets. This allows precise fabrication of reflective nanostructures, optimizing the angle for solar energy concentration.
   - Innovation Impact: Lightweight, scalable, and efficient reflective nanostructures, facilitating easy transportation, installation, and maintenance in challenging Arctic environments.

3. Smart Energy Distribution System:
   - Description: Our solution includes an intelligent energy distribution system that adapts to the energy needs of the community. Machine learning algorithms optimize energy distribution, ensuring a stable power supply.
   - Innovation Impact: Increased reliability, reduced energy waste, and adaptability to the specific energy demands of Arctic communities, enhancing overall energy access.

4. Integration with 3D Printing for Local Production:
   - Description: Our technology integrates 3D printers that not only create solar components but also support local production of necessary goods. This reduces dependence on external supply chains, empowering communities.
   - Innovation Impact: Community empowerment through on-site production, reduced logistical challenges, and increased self-sufficiency.

5. Community-Driven Research Hub:
   - Description: The 3D printers serve as research hubs, enabling remote collaboration on innovative solutions. This platform supports both academic and practical research, addressing diverse challenges faced by Arctic communities.
   - Innovation Impact: Fostering local innovation, creating a hub for knowledge exchange, and addressing community-specific challenges.

By combining biomimicry-inspired solar panel design, 3D nano-printing, smart energy distribution, and community-driven research capabilities, Arctic Sigluaq Solar Solutions represents a holistic, technology-driven approach to sustainable energy solutions for Arctic communities. Our commitment to blending modern technology with traditional knowledge ensures a culturally sensitive and effective solution that addresses the unique challenges of the Arctic region.

Currently, our operations are solely based out of Oregon. However, our primary focus for expansion is Alaska, with plans to gradually extend our reach eastward into Canada, including areas like Inuvik.

Our primary focus for expansion is Alaska, with plans to extend our reach eastward into Canada and Nunavut before further eastward expansion.

One besides myself

2 years

Our team benefits from the diverse perspectives of my colleague and co-solution partner, Maliona Rose Powell, who hails from the culturally rich island of Moloka'i. Maliona's educational background in Environmental Science and Anthropology from Willamette University, coupled with her graduate studies in Climate and Society at Columbia University, complements my Willamette University undergrad studies in economics. As an indigenous individual raised on the island, Maliona brings invaluable insights shaped by her unique cultural heritage and lived experiences. Maliona also has previous experience working in BIPOC-led community-based organizations as a climate justice organizer and is interested in equitably empowering local communities with the resources needed to be climate resilient.

 Our collaboration thrives on the synergy of our diverse backgrounds, as we leverage our distinct approaches to problem-solving towards a shared goal.

Our business model focuses on providing solar power solutions to Alaskan indigenous peoples, Canadian Inuit, and other international Arctic communities through direct sales and monthly subscription services. Sigluaq Solar offers a range of products and services tailored to meet the unique needs of these communities, including large-scale installations for entire villages and individual solutions for traditional structures like sigluaqs and remote subsistence hunting cabins. In addition to solar panels, we also provide battery power systems to further reduce fossil fuel consumption and enhance energy resilience.

Central to our approach is the integration of advanced technology, such as industrial-sized 3D printers, both at our headquarters in Oregon and in the villages we serve. This allows us to scan specific locations and issues using 3D scanners, share files, and create solutions on-site or remotely. By utilizing industrial 3D printers capable of using pellets and filament, we can expedite the delivery of essential items by air dropping pellets directly to remote locations, bypassing the logistical challenges of traditional cargo flights.

Furthermore, we prioritize indigenous sovereignty by empowering villages to use the printers at their discretion to create needed items, reducing reliance on external supply chains and fostering local self-sufficiency. This approach not only addresses immediate energy needs but also unlocks opportunities for remote research and collaboration, enabling individuals and communities to actively participate in the advancement of solar technology. Through this inclusive and innovative business model, we aim to catalyze sustainable development and promote resilience in Arctic communities while contributing to the broader transition towards clean energy solutions.

As an indigenous entrepreneur from a modest background, achieving financial sustainability is essential for the long-term success of Sigluaq Solar. To ensure our financial stability, we are pursuing a multifaceted approach that leverages diverse revenue streams and strategic partnerships. Our primary sources of revenue include selling solar power solutions and associated products and services to Arctic communities, securing service contracts with governments and organizations for large-scale installations, and offering consultancy services for remote research and development projects.

Additionally, we are actively seeking sustained donations and grants from philanthropic organizations, government agencies, and impact investors who share our vision of empowering indigenous communities and advancing clean energy solutions. These funds will support our operational expenses, research and development efforts, and community engagement initiatives.

Moving forward, we will continue to diversify our revenue streams via villages, Alaskan native corporations, while we strengthen our partnerships, and demonstrate the impact of our solutions to attract further investment and funding opportunities. By prioritizing financial sustainability, we aim to ensure the continued growth and resilience of Sigluaq Solar, ultimately driving positive change in Arctic communities and beyond.