In late August 2007, a powerful 8.0 magnitude earthquake hit the southern coastal province of Ica in Peru killing over 400 people and injuring another 1,500. More than 16,500 people were displaced or otherwise affected by the quake with no access to power or lighting. Philanthropists David and Susan Russell, who funded the donation with the assistance of Practical Action of Peru and local governments, facilitated a partnership with Sol Inc. to provide a donation of solar powered lights that were installed where they were needed most, in the Peruvian communities of Nuevo Amanecer, Marcas, Quilca, Yanapampa, Huancho, Buenavista, Tantas, Uchapa, Chacará, Huayao and Castrovirreyna. Sol provided a complete solution which allowed the donation of forty-two solar lighting systems. The solar systems are lighting streets, pathways, and community plaza squares. Solar lighting was the choice because it was quick to deploy, reliable and required very little infrastructure improvement to provide the light. Public lighting is important to the economic and social activities of these communities and solar lights enhance the safety and extend the daily life of these small towns whether it is for children playing or allowing a market to remain open a few hours longer. Villagers now gather under the solar lights for social activities and watch their children play in a safe and secure environment.

Related

Solarplaza Update & Newsletter:

View previous newsletters

Solarplaza Events

What's hot