Earth Day

What is Earth Day?

Earth Day is an annual event on 22 April to demonstrate support for environmental protection. First held on 22 April 1970, it now includes a wide range of activities coordinated globally through earthday.org, involving 1 billion people in more than 193 countries. It is a moment to learn, act, and speak up for the planet we share.

Ausman Wayisoni and Martin Phombana installing the fourth set of solar panels. Mtimabii Health Center, Mangochi Malawi, August 10, 2021.

When is the next Earth Day?

The next Earth Day will be on 22 April 2026. Around the world, people, schools, community groups, and organisations will come together to protect nature and push for positive change.

Why Earth Day matters to SolarAid

Our mission is to help end the use of kerosene lamps by replacing them with clean, safe solar light. Kerosene is expensive, dangerous, and polluting. Moving to solar helps protect people and the planet, while improving daily life for families who need reliable light the most. It is one practical step in the wider response to the impacts of climate change.

  • Cut carbon – each solar light avoids emissions from burning kerosene.
  • Protect health – no toxic smoke in the home.
  • Boost opportunity – affordable, reliable light for work, study, and safety.

On Earth Day – and every day – we work alongside communities to build a brighter, cleaner future.

Renewable Energy and Africa

Despite being the most solar rich continent on the planet, 590 million people in sub-Saharan Africa do not have access to electricity. Currently, Africa makes up less than 1% of total global solar photovoltaics.

But, this is slated to change. In a report by the International Energy Agency, they predict that renewable energy will make up almost half of sub-Saharan Africa’s power generation growth by 2040. This growth will be lead by solar energy.

While development of solar in the region may be slow, there are many initiatives attempting to combat this. Mini grids and solar home systems are playing an important part of ensuring that those in the hardest to reach places have access to electricity.

What is SolarAid Doing?

SolarAid is an international charity founded in 2006 to combat poverty and climate change. Our vision is a world where everyone has access to clean, safe, renewable energy.  Through our social enterprise, SunnyMoney, we provide access to small solar lights in Malawi and Zambia to help catalyse solar markets with renewable energy.

Solar lights are safe, clean and affordable. It is a small, but smart innovation which gives off hours of light in the evening so families can earn, learn and feel safe after dark all while combating climate change. Just one lamp can transform the future for an entire family and is the first step out of poverty.

Together, we will end the darkness.

Find Out More

Margaret John in Malawi selling fish after dark.

Our Impact

A solar light truly changes everything from greater economic opportunities to higher education and better well-being.

Sister Grace welcomes a newborn into the world with her solar light.

Our Programmes

From supporting entrepreneurs to powering healthcare and lighting up schools, we are working to ensure access to clean energy for all.