EmPOWERing Mindanao with the help of US-AID

For years, the peace and security of certain homes situated in Mindanao have been disrupted by repeated armed clashes between the Government and rebel groups. As an effect, progress within their communities are brought to a standstill. This includes their access to a basic service: electricity. There, candles and kerosene lamps are in. The ability to turn on a light switch was a novelty. However, based on a success story in USAID’s website (www.usaid.gov), it appears that the quality of life of these affected Filipinos are improving – slowly but surely – through clean and renewable solar-powered electricity made available at an affordable price.

In partnership with the Department of Energy and Mirant Philippines, USAID has been able to provide solar-battery energy systems to communities in rural Mindanao. They have been able to make the whole thing affordable -- even cheaper than using kerosene lamps. All thanks to their efforts, children can study, teachers can prepare for classes and parents can keep on making livelihood products after the sun sets. Most importantly, communities become safer at night.

Aside from USAID, should we also look into tapping another resource such as Rural Energy Foundation (www.ruralenergy.nl)? See how this non-govermental organization similarly facilitated access to solar electricity to rural people in Sub-Saharan Africa.