SOLAR LAMP CHALLENGE; Malawi
PROVEN INTERVENTION TO BE DISTRIBUTED
Solar Lamps
Learn more about the Solar Lamp Challenge and how these lamps create enormous benefits for developing world families.
DISTRIBUTION MODEL INNOVATION
GBS was founded to provide affordable and sustainable long-term clean energy support in rural low-income communities, with labour embedded in the community, using a simple scalable approach.
Green Business Solutions (GBS) has developed a simple and scalable distribution method for getting low-cost pico-solar lamps to low-income rural communities such that they can have a life with lighting: increasing security at night, allowing night-time study for children, providing opportunities for nighttime commercial activities such as sewing and cooking, and increasing quality of life.
Their model involves recruiting local ‘Energy Committee’ teams i.e. Village Savings and Loans Associations who recruit customers to get bulk orders. The Energy Committee is supported by an experienced and locally based Sales Agent who provides training and support. The model improves gender equality; offers local employment and low costs; provides excellent after-sales support; and creates a two-way communication hub for the community.
PILOT AND SCALING GOALS
Reach 2250 customers during the pilot.
Distribute 500 products during the pilot.
Fundraise an additional $20,000 from other donors.
FOUNDING TEAM
Bright Bamusi Banda - Managing Director
Precious Mkandawire - Finance Manager