SolarAid

475,605

Solar lights sold

Impact

In rural Africa, more and more familes are switching on solar powered lamps to light their homes. Here's why:


  • Increased education opportunities 

... Children have the opportunity to do better at school because they can study after dark. This means more opportunities as they grow up. And by using a solar light, teachers in rural areas can prepare lesson plans and mark homework.

 

  • Save (and create) money

... Money previously spent on kerosene and candles can be invested elsewhere and the extra 'light time' means adults can be more productive (for example running a small enterprise in the evening).

 

  • Improved health with clean light

... People become healthier as fewer households are polluted by the smoke from kerosene lanterns. This also means a reduced risk of burns.

 

  • Reduced carbon emissions

... A single kerosene lamp emits one tonne of carbon dioxide over five years; that's the equivalent of driving your car from London to Moscow and back. We estimate every three solar lamps means at least one less kerosene lamp in use.


Sharing what we learn

A lot of focus is placed on on research and evaluation to ensure that we’re doing the best possible job. We talk with lots of people, from head teachers to solar-light owners and parents. Combined with internal learning, this information is allowing us to get solar lights into more regions and to ensure the best possible service for our customers. Learn more.