SOLshare & GRST Partner to Replace Rickshaw Batteries in Bangladesh

A groundbreaking partnership is set to transform Bangladesh’s urban transport landscape, tackling a major environmental challenge head-on. Two leading eco-innovators, SOLshare and GRST, are joining forces to replace the toxic lead-acid batteries currently powering millions of electric rickshaws across the country.

This collaboration brings together a 2021 Earthshot Prize finalist, SOLshare, and a 2023 Earthshot Prize winner, GRST, in a powerful alliance for sustainability. Their shared mission is to retrofit five million electric rickshaws with a cleaner, safer, and more efficient battery technology, marking a significant step forward for green transportation in the region.

The Problem with Lead-Acid Bangladesh rickshaw batteries

Electric rickshaws are a vital part of daily life and commerce in Bangladesh, providing essential transportation and livelihoods for millions. However, their reliance on conventional lead-acid batteries poses a severe threat to both public health and the environment.

These batteries contain toxic materials and harmful “forever chemicals” that can leach into the soil and water systems during their disposal, causing long-term contamination. The improper handling and recycling of these batteries create significant health risks for communities. Furthermore, their inefficiency and limited lifespan contribute to both waste and economic strain on the drivers who depend on them.

A Powerful and Sustainable Solution for Bangladesh rickshaw batteries

The partnership between SOLshare and GRST offers a comprehensive solution to this pressing issue. The collaboration leverages the unique strengths of both organizations to create a sustainable and scalable model for change.

GRST, celebrated for its pioneering work in green technology, will provide its innovative water-recyclable lithium-ion batteries. This cutting-edge technology not only eliminates the toxic components found in lead-acid batteries but also introduces a more sustainable lifecycle for the batteries themselves.

Complementing this technology, SOLshare brings its extensive network and expertise in payment and monitoring systems. Having built a reputation for empowering local communities through clean energy solutions in Bangladesh, SOLshare’s infrastructure is perfectly positioned to manage the rollout, financing, and performance tracking of the new batteries, ensuring a seamless transition for rickshaw drivers.

Quantifiable Impact for People and Planet with Bangladesh rickshaw batteries

The benefits of this initiative are clear and substantial. According to a report from The Earthshot Prize, the replacement of each lead-acid battery with GRST’s sustainable alternative will deliver multiple positive outcomes:

• Environmental Protection: Each new battery prevents harmful forever chemicals from entering the environment.
• Carbon Reduction: The switch is projected to reduce carbon emissions by an impressive 2.5 tonnes per battery.
• Economic Empowerment: The program is designed to directly increase the incomes of the rickshaw drivers, likely through improved battery efficiency, longer lifespan, and reduced maintenance costs.

By combining world-class sustainable technology with a robust, on-the-ground operational network, SOLshare and GRST are not just swapping out hardware; they are building a new ecosystem for clean urban mobility. This partnership stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in driving meaningful environmental action and creating a healthier, more prosperous future for the people of Bangladesh.