South African blockchain startup Sun Exchange has successfully raised US$1.6 million in seed capital for their new investment platform, which aims to provide solar power for the developing world by enabling global investments through bitcoin. Initially launched in 2015 through crowdfunding, Sun Exchange is using blockchain technology to circumvent the chief barrier to affordable solar power, which is the initial financial cost. The company is enabling investors to purchase solar panels using bitcoin, among other currencies, which can then be rented to projects. The investors earn income as the solar panels they purchase produce power, and the company pays investors using bitcoin. Sun Exchange markets the solar panels for as little as $8 per unit, making the purchase extremely affordable.