Sterling Planet Supports Solar Light for Africa, Ltd. Annual Solar Installation Project

(3BL Media / theCSRfeed) Atlanta, GA - September 16, 2011 - For the fifth consecutive year, Sterling Planet has supported the nonprofit Solar Light for Africa (SLA), Ltd. in its annual project to bring more solar energy to Africa. This year, the SLA team traveled to Karamoja, a remote Ugandan village, to electrify 22 houses, a clinic and a school by installing solar-powered  lighting and electricity in just seven days.

In Uganda, a team of eight American youth joined by six Ugandan peers ventured to Karamoja in northeastern Uganda, where there is little or no access to electricity and the many advantages made possible by electrification. “When we put solar panels on Karamojan rooftops this summer, we created new opportunities for the people of this remote area,” said Will Jones, an American 19-year-old who traveled with the team from his home state of Georgia. “Their lives are better, and mine is enriched by the experience. It’s fulfilling to know that I was part of a larger effort to deliver clean, renewable energy where it has not been available before.”

SLA’s electrification projects provide increased access to nearby facilities that can deliver educational, economic and health-related benefits. With lighting, students can study into the night and improve their performance. Schools can stay open later, offering job skills training or other after-hours programs to benefit the local economy. Solar also is a safe energy source and helps prevent fires from traditional light sources, such as kerosene and candles. Health benefits include clean water, refrigeration and access to electric diagnostic tools and information available over the internet.

This rural electrification is a focal point for the First Lady of Uganda, Janet Museveni, who is a patron for Solar Light for Africa and a member of Parliament representing the Karamojong people.  “I applaud the young people from America, led by retired Bishop Alden Hathaway and his wife, for raising funds and coming to Uganda every July to install lighting systems in schools, health clinics, churches, orphanages and homes. This gesture teaches the spirit of love and sharing.”

Added Bishop Alden Hathaway, SLA Founding Director, “The First Lady of Uganda was on hand to commemorate the project, and the Anglican bishop of Moroto, himself a Karamojong, blessed the work. It was a most unique expression of SLA’s mission to partner church, government and private enterprise in the work of bettering the lives of Karamojans.“

The outreach program delivers more than technology. “Our mission is so much bigger than solar,” said Charlene Turner, SLA Project Director. “I always remember the beautiful child I saw a few years back who was scarred by burns caused by his tripping over the home’s only light source, a kerosene lantern. We are committed to making lives safer, more comfortable, more enjoyable and more productive.”

Over the past five years, Sterling Planet has supported SLA operations in various ways, including more than $60,000 of directly donated solar equipment, additional funds for travel by key SLA and Sterling Planet personnel, and in-kind support such as office space, phone and internet use.