In a world where energy, sustainability and environmental justice are no longer choices but urgencies, there are those who try to respond in a practical, concrete, accessible way. This is the case of Caroline Lepota young Belgian engineer, who transformed a simple degree thesis into a replicable, ethical and functional invention: it’s called Relios (Reuse of elements for light irradiated operations system), and is a DIY thermal solar panelbuilt entirely with Recovery materials.
Nothing futuristic or complicated. Only old condensators of abandoned refrigerators, a glass slab, some wooden axis and a lot of inventiveness. The system is able to Heat up to 200 liters of water per day – Just enough for the daily needs of a family of four – without consuming even a gram of fossil fuel, without electricity, without pumps, nor regulators. Only the sun.
From the degree thesis to reality
Relios was born atUclouvainduring an academic path, but immediately detaches itself from the theory. Caroline’s idea was clear from the beginning: creating a useful, cheap and replicable device everywhere, even in low -income contexts or in areas where electricity is not guaranteed. Not a product to sell, but one Open source solution, freely accessible to everyone.
And this is precisely that strikes. While many patents are already armored, designed for the market before even for people, Caroline publishes everything on Slidesharestep by step. Simple instructions, easily available materials, zero barriers. A gesture that is worth more than many slogans: knowledge is sharedespecially when it can improve people’s lives.
The first prototype works so well as to obtain, in 2016, the Belgian Energy and Environment Awardin the young category. But it doesn’t end there. The news turns, and even comes to court: The Principe Laurent of Belgiumalways sensitive to environmental issues, visit the plant and invite Caroline to Export it to its residence. An unexpected recognition for a project that, in fact, continues to live outside the commercial circuits.
Cheaper of industrial systems and constructible by everyone
The comparison with traditional solar systems is clear: an industrial panel costs between 4,000 and 6,000 eurosRelios alone 60 euros per square meter. The materials are all recovery, the construction is manual, and the goal is not the maximum performance, but theuniversal accessibility.
It only works thanks to the sun, without electricity, pumps or regulatorsmaking it perfect also for those who live in isolated areas. The project has already gone around the world, showing that The ecological transition can be truly inclusiveif we abandon the idea that large investments are needed to make a difference. Sometimes a little sun, a broken fridge and the desire to share are enough.
