Open Source (village-level) electrical power generation from human-powered machines.

1.6 billion people need home and small shop lighting. 500 million need power for charging cell phones.

"Genny" is an almost-free, here-and-now solution to rural village lighting and cell phone charging. The first Genny could be built in a week, after that 3 people could make one in a day. A specialized version could be built to easily produce wooden pulleys etc. for many more Gennys.

Genny is a low technology solution that combines a many centuries old treadle design with the method of using a common automobile alternator to generate electricity. Alternators are used this way in hundreds of water powered grain mills in Nepal.

Easily built and maintained by carpenters and auto mechanics with commonly available hand tools.

Uses easily available wood and automotive scrap, nothing else!(except a little glue)

It can power the peak loads of solar or wind systems so that smaller systems could be installed.

Totally pollution free!

It can also provide non-electrical power to pump water and to thresh and grind grains

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Whats the big deal?

We redesigned the treadle so that it is built from engine parts (see the piston and connecting rod sticking out the BOTTOM of the old engine block!) and can withstand the efforts of the group of treadlers that are necessary to use a human powered auto alternator for battery charging.
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I have also developed and tested a $1 (Ebay), 24 LED light source that is based on an auto map light accessory. The original package makes a good lighting fixture.

SPECIAL NOTE The picture is that of the original "proof of concept" machine. "Real" Gennys would be made with wooden pulleys and bearing housings and would use junkyard car axles instead of "store bought" steel shaft.

Be sure to check the "FILES" and "PHOTO" sections for construction details