Solar Links Initiative

The Solar Links Initiative is a UK-registered charity (number 1110013) dedicated to supporting community-based organizations in rural areas of post-conflict regions. The charity primarily focuses on bringing sustainable lighting solutions to disadvantaged communities in Uganda, South Sudan, and Burundi.

Mission and Activities

Solar Links Initiative aims to improve the lives of people in remote, off-grid communities by introducing solar lighting systems. These systems are designed to replace traditional lighting methods, such as kerosene, which are often hazardous and costly. The charity works closely with local Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) that have a proven track record in community development projects. This collaboration ensures that projects are implemented effectively and are tailored to meet the specific needs of local communities.

Implementation Strategies

Projects are implemented on a community-wide basis, prioritizing villages with the greatest need and those without access to grid electricity. Before starting a project, community mapping is conducted to better understand the local context and needs. Following the installation of solar lighting systems, impact assessments are carried out after several months to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention.

Financial Model

To ensure sustainability, Solar Links Initiative establishes a Solar Lighting Village Savings Scheme within each community. Households save small, affordable amounts that would otherwise be spent on kerosene for lighting and phone charging. These savings are used to repay the costs associated with purchasing and installing the solar systems, thereby facilitating the expansion of the initiative to other communities. The scheme also promotes a culture of saving among community members.

Training and Capacity Building

Selected community members are trained as Lighting Engineers by the charity. These engineers are responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the solar systems. This approach not only ensures the longevity of the equipment but also provides employment opportunities within the community.

Partnerships

Solar Links Initiative partners with Greenlight Planet, a social impact business based in Kampala, to acquire Sun King solar products. This partnership enables the charity to offer high-quality solar lighting solutions that meet the needs of rural households.

Objectives

The primary objectives of the Solar Links Initiative include:

• Education and Training: Providing training to community members to manage and maintain solar systems.
• Poverty Relief: Reducing poverty by introducing affordable and sustainable lighting options, thus saving household income.
• Economic and Community Development: Enhancing economic conditions by promoting energy sustainability and fostering community savings schemes.

Overall, the Solar Links Initiative plays a critical role in enhancing the quality of life in rural communities by providing sustainable energy solutions, promoting economic development, and fostering self-sufficiency.

[1] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/4010834 [2] http://www.solar-links.org [3] http://www.solar-links.org/about-1 [4] https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/CE036497 [5] https://www.totalgiving.co.uk/charity/solar-links-initiative