....what the Sol-Solutions 2002 and NoGMO programs are based on...the issues,
history and reasons for solar cooking, healthy eating and how you can take vacations on the savings you realize.....

History

Solar energy has been used to cook and heat food in many cultures and parts of the world for as long as humankind has wanted the coffee hot! The sun heating the rocks around them provided obvious energy to warm and even cook the first casseroles that our ancestors could devise.

Worldwide use of modern solar ovens is a reality. It is especially beneficial in areas with very little firewood or fuel sources. Peru has benefited from the free energy source at high altitude Lake Titicacca. Kenya, India and China all have significant examples of the practicality of their use. More recently, school children and Rotary clubs among others have sent solar ovens to Afghanistan to help that desparate country solve their fuel crisis for the refugees displaced by the continued warfare in their country.

Fuel sources

The planet can no longer rely on 20th century technologies in the 21st century. We must move forward and leave behind obsolete and destructive energy sources that our publlic lands can no longer afford. Woodburning stoves plollute the air and decimate our already shrinking forest lands. Natural gas is being depleated. Electricity sources take a toll on the environment and quality of life for ourselves and the generations to come. Microwaves continue to be used despite the health risks known and as yet unknown.

The alternatives include solar energy. Passive solar and photovoltac can heat homes and businesses. The energy from the sun heats water for laundry, bathing, and dishwashing. Solar cooking is a viable option for meal preparation.

Advantages and disadvantages

Solar energy does not pollute the environment nor contaminate the food that it cooks.
Decreased utility bills.
There is no fire danger.
Does not overheat the house.
It is convenient since you can put food into the oven and not worry about staying close to it as it cooks.
The flavors and nutrients remain in the food.
It is extremely creative. The possibilities are endless!
In a powerfailure or disaster, solar energy can be a lifesaver.
Camping is a natural use for solar cooking. No firewood gathering (and depleating the supply). The convenience of preparing dinner and forgetting about it while hiking, fishing, exploring and enjoying the outdoors is epecially appreciated when coming back to camp hungry!
It is difficult to injure yourself while cooking with the sun. The pots do get hot though.

However--

Food usually takes longer to cook.
You can't fry food.
Unless you have a specially built oven, it is difficult to prepare large quantities.
Setting up , taking down, and storing the oven takes time if it is not built into your home.
The sun must be shining! (however, cloudy days will cook food if there is 20 minutes of sunshine every hour of cooking)

Kinds

The three main kinds of solar ovens are
1) Box
2) Panel and plastic bag or glass bowl
3) Parabolic

The Box type is the most common and reliable. It can be made very easily with very little effort or cost. The main principle is a black box covered with glass or plastic. Add reflectors and a 67 degree angle to maximize the sun intensity, and you are ready to begin.

The Panel-bag type is extremely inexpensive. Simply take a glass bowl with lid or a oven type cooking bag (the kind for cooking turkeys) and aluminum foil covered panels. Arrange for maximum sun exposure and bake. Backpackers like this idea as the foil and bag are very light and the weight of cooking fuel can be reduced.

The Parabolic oven cooks faster but requires more attention. The solar energy enters the oven through a smaller point (the parabola) and must be adjusted a short intervals to keep the cooking temperature constant.
Build one yourself, buy a commercial one, borrow one from a friend, or rent a loaner.