John Monina Karan, CEO of Melanin Solar, presented at the Black Blockchain Summit about using blockchain and cryptocurrency to improve sustainable energy access for Black communities, especially in Africa. His company aims to connect 500,000 households by 2025 through a peer-to-peer energy network using smart devices. They developed a token called W, mined using idle CPU power and solar energy, to create a cost-effective and transparent energy market. The initiative combines blockchain, IoT, and AI to reduce costs, promote renewable energy, and empower farmers often burdened by debt from solar purchases. Melanin Solar also trains engineers and uses NFTs to drive awareness. This approach seeks to leverage technology to address energy inequality and promote sustainable development
