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Annual Report | 2014

1 Annual Report of the Stiftung Solarenergie – Solar Energy Foundation| 2014

Table of contents

1. Preface…………………………………………………………………………………………………2

2. The Stiftung Solarenergie – Solar Energy Foundation: a brief overview 3

3. Activities in 2014……………………………………………………………………………………6

3.1. Development: Solar villages………………………………………………………………..6

3.2. Training………………………………………………………………………………………………14

3.3. Education…………………………………………………………………………………..…….15

3.4. Health………………………………………………………………………………………………..20

3.5. Public relations…………………………………………………………………………………24

3.6. Fundraising activities………………………………………………………………………..26

3.7. Foundation of the Sun-Connect eG cooperative………………………………… 27

4. The Stiftung Solarenergie – Solar Energy Foundation in the press……… 28

5. Imprint………………………………………………………………………………………………. 29

6. Our supporters…………………………………………………………………………………. 30

7th Financial Report 2014………………………………………………………………………. 31


1. Preface

Dear Readers,

the focus of our work is to alleviate poverty by means of the provision of so-

lar energy. The resonance from the people in those countries in which we

work – in Ethiopia, Kenya and the Philippines – confirms that we are on the

right road: light and power can contribute a lot towards changing people's

living conditions. "You cannot imagine how much the light has contributed

towards the development of our village and towards the improvement of our

lives! The days of kerosene are over. At long last the households in Arso

Amba have clean and reliable light and at the same time are saving money

because they do not have to pay for kerosene", the village head of Arso

Amba proudly told me on the occasion of my last visit there in April 2015.

Arso Amba is Ethiopia's fourth solar village.

Light and electricity are important prerequisites for the alleviation of poverty and for development. Never-

theless, worldwide 1.3 billion people still have no access to either. For the sunny countries in Africa and Asia

in particular, solar energy offers the cleanest, cheapest and most reliable solution! This is our angle of ap-

proach. However, we do not focus on short-term projects, on the distribution of free solar home systems or

portable lamps. Our objective is to set up sustainable structures which enable a self-supporting solar econ-

omy. In the course of our work in this sector during the last ten years we have learned that we can only

achieve something in the long term by means of a holistic approach – not only from the social, but also from

the cultural and economic point of view.

I would like to thank all of our donors and supporters. Without your help our work would be impossible. I

would be delighted if you continue to accompany and support us in the future too so that we can get closer

to achieving our target of alleviating poverty by means of solar energy.

Best regards

Dr. Harald Schützeichel

Director of the Stiftung Solarenergie Germany /

President of the Foundation Board of the Stiftung Solarenergie Switzerland


THIS ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2014 PROVIDES INFORMATION ABOUT THE CURRENT PROGRAMME OF THE

STIFTUNG SOLARENERGIE - SOLAR ENERGY FOUNDATION; PROJECTS WHICH WERE SUPPORTED FOR THE

FIRST TIME AS WELL AS PROJECTS WHICH WERE COMPLETED IN THAT YEAR.

2. The Stiftung Solarenergie – Solar Energy Founda-

tion: a brief overview

The Stiftung Solarenergie - Solar Energy Foundation is a foundation with legal capacity

under civil law with headquarters in Merzhausen (Germany) and in Zurich (Switzerland).

The purpose of the foundation is to promote development aid, environmental protec-

tion, education and training and to carry out projects in these fields. Since 2004 the

Stiftung Solarenergie has been committed to rural development and the alleviation of

poverty in rural areas of developing countries, in particular in Ethiopia, Kenya and the

Philippines, by means of the provision of solar energy.

Our main points of focus:

• Education

In rural areas kerosene lamps are usually the only source of illumination and the poor

light which they produce often leads to eye damage. In addition, the burning of kero-

sene results in noxious emissions (soot) and odours. As a result, children’s ability to do

schoolwork after the sun goes down is considerably limited. Solar energy provides a

bright, clean light and improves the situation immensely.

• Health

In many developing countries an adequate provision of basic medical services for the

majority of the population is not possible. Pregnant women and children suffer particu-

larly as a result. By providing rural health stations with solar light and solar refrigeration

for medicine we contribute towards improving this situation.

“We can speak of fuel poverty if

there is no or only limited access

to power for the purpose of cook-

ing, lighting, heating, refrigeration

or for the use of information and

communication technologies. 1.3

billion people have no electricity

and approximately twice as many

are dependent on firewood, char-

coal, dung or plant rests for cook-

ing and heating. However, if

power is not available, cannot be

used efficiently or is not afforda-

ble, important requirements can-

not be met. This kind of poverty

has dramatic consequences for the

people concerned: Their quality of

life is impaired, their health often

suffers and educational opportuni-

ties as well as their possibilities to

generate income are limited.“

(Source: BMZ, Informationsbroschüre

1/2014 Nachhaltige Energie für Entwick-

lung )


• Water

Dirty drinking water can result in serious illnesses and even death. Nevertheless, access to clean drinking wa-

ter is a problem in many developing countries. Women and children often have to walk a long way in order

to bring water home from distant water sources. However, it is often of such bad quality that it makes the

people ill. By means of solar water pumps and suitable water disinfection equipment, the Stiftung Solarener-

gie provides a safe supply of the vital commodity water.

• Development

In very poor areas of Africa and Asia the Stiftung Solarenergie follows a particular concept of village develop-

ment: the provision of entire villages with solar energy. Households and public buildings such as schools,

health stations and churches are all equipped with solar electricity. In addition solar water pumps, water dis-

infection facilities and street lanterns are also installed.

Our holistic approach:

Because energy is a foundation stone for social and economic development, we are dedicated to providing

the people on-site with a reliable and long-term supply of solar energy. Solar energy enables a distinct im-

provement of the social and economic situation and this is the reason why the demand for it in the popula-

tion is so high. The effects and advantages are reflected in improved educational and training opportunities,

better health conditions, increased incomes, lower energy costs and less poverty. It is our aim to set up a

sustainable solar trade in our partner countries. That is why we are not concerned with one-off aid

measures, for example a short-term replacement of kerosene lamps which are both hazardous to health and

the environment: We are convinced that long-term access to energy in rural areas is necessary in order to

meet the needs of all areas of life and the economy. A substantial and long-term economic and social devel-

opment can only be triggered off in this way.


We therefore do not concentrate on one single aspect; to

achieve long-term effects we bundle a variety of tasks to create

an overall strategy:

Education/training

Funding

Production

Installation

Customer service etc.

The foundations in the various countries are legally independent entities, but work in close association with

one another.

Two part-time, permanently employed members of staff as well as an honorary director/ foundation board

president and a foundation board work for the Stiftung Solarenergie in Germany and Switzerland.


3. Activities in 2014

3.1. Development: Solar villages

In order to make a long-term contribution towards alleviating poverty, the Stiftung Solarenergie decided not

to provide isolated schools, health stations or huts with electricity. Instead the Stiftung Solarenergie has a

comprehensive plan which involves supplying entire villages.

Since 2004 three whole villages in Ethiopia have been provided with solar energy:

Kechemober: 150 inhabitants

Rema: 6,000 inhabitants

Dire: 4,000 inhabitants

To ensure long-term success, there are local technicians on-site who are responsible for maintenance and

service. In addition, the inhabitants have to pay a monthly fee to cover the costs which is collected and ad-

ministered by the Stiftung Solarenergie as well as the village administration.

In 2014 we started to electrify the village of Arso Amba in Ethiopia, thus continuing our successful solar vil-

lage concept.

Arso Amba is situated 280 km northeast of the capital city, Addis Ababa, in a mountainous and remote re-

gion which is considered to be one of the poorest areas of Ethiopia. Around 4,500 people live here in 900

tukuls (huts) which lie scattered around a small village centre with its market place. The majority of the in-

habitants earn their living as farmers, but some are craftsmen.

The village also has two churches, a health station and a school with 750 pupils and 18 teachers. The village’s

water source is located 2 km away, approximately 140 m below the village.

Ethiopia

Arso Amba,

the new solar village Das neue Solardorf


The provision of solar energy offers the entire village development op-

portunities:

Improved working situation: Even after the sun has gone down, work

can still be done.

Health: There are no health-hazardous fumes or CO² emissions

caused by kerosene lamps or diesel generators.

Education: Children can make use of the time after sunset for their

homework.

Safety: Due to outdoor lights on the houses and public buildings the

people feel safer.

Improved healthcare: Light and the refrigeration of medicine con-

tribute significantly towards the improvement of the healthcare of

the inhabitants.

Improved learning opportunities: Teachers can now also prepare

their lessons in the evening and become more qualified in their sub-

jects. Adults also have the possibility of participating in reading and

writing courses in the evening.

Possibilities of increased income: New sources of income present

themselves and the exodus from the village is reduced.

Samson Tsegaye, Director of the

Stiftung Solarenergie – Solar Energy

Foundation, Ethiopia:

“Working on the basis of our concept of

the solar village, we have been providing

entire villages with solar energy since

2004 and have successfully electrified

three Ethiopian villages so far: house-

holds, schools, health stations, churches

and their water supplies. In this way we

are making a long-term contribution to-

wards the alleviation of poverty. Our con-

cept of the solar village has received

many awards and Arso Amba represents

one further step in this direction.“

“We are very happy about the activities of the

Stiftung Solarenergie in our village. Even after such

a short period of time, we can hardly imagine living

without a reliable source of light. My children can

now do their homework in the evenings too and I

can use my sewing machine after 6.00 pm. The out-

side lighting on the houses gives us all a totally dif-

ferent feeling of safety.“

Kelemuwa,

inhabitant of Arso Amba


Solar energy for households

Up until the end of the year male and female technicians of the Stiftung Solarenergie – Solar Energy Founda-

tion Ethiopia had electrified almost 500 households and public buildings in Arso Amba (such as the churches,

community centre and village bar) and work was progressing fast. In the middle of November we were on-

site and could convince ourselves of the progress personally.

In order to give you an idea of what we do on-site and how a household is actually provided with solar

energy we would like to pass on some impressions:

The most important principle behind our work

is to talk to the people in rural areas, find out

what their problems are, work together to find

solutions and put them into action. As a matter

of principle we establish, together with the in-

habitants, what the individual needs are first.

Those people who want a solar system get one.

However, the inhabitants contribute towards it

by paying back in instalments.

Here the purchase agreement is being signed. The

foundation funds the Solar Home System to 75%

and guarantees that the system is regularly

checked. Solar technicians trained by the founda-

tion provide assistance in the event of complica-

tions.


We only use solar products which, in terms of their quality and durability, are capable of functioning for a long

time in the adverse conditions prevalent in rural areas.

The greatest challenge for successful and sustainable rural electrification is not the installation of solar sys-

tems. It is ensuring their reliable operation in the long term. To this end it is essential to have a network of

well-trained solar technicians who also have the necessary spare parts and can guarantee a professional after-

sales service.

A Solar Home System usually consists of a:

- Battery

- Solar panel

- Charge controller

- LED lamps

- Cables

The inhabitants are actively involved from the beginning. In the pictures below the technician and villagers

are transporting the solar system and accessories to the family’s tukul.


. Die

First of all, the panel is installed on

the roof of the tukul and aligned

towards the south to achieve the

greatest efficiency.

Then the charge controller, the battery and the lamps

are installed in the living space.


A very special mo-

ment: The light is

switched on in the

tukul for the first

time.

It is very moving -

even for the techni-

cians - to see how

delighted the inhabit-

ants are.

Finally, every household is given a number. This means that the system

was installed by the Stiftung Solarenergie and that we will provide ser-

vice later on and assistance in the event of complications.

„“It fascinates me to see how easy

it is to make decisive improve-

ments to the people’s lives simply

by providing them with solar en-

ergy. After each and every suc-

cessfully installed system, I know

exactly why I love working as a so-

lar technician”, says Mena

Hailemichael

She is one of the first women in Ethio-

pia who successfully completed a sup-

plementary training programme to

become a solar technician.


Water for Arso Amba

In 2014 we also decided to improve Arso Amba’s water suppy by means of a solar water pump. Together

with the village inhabitants we made the necessary preparations for the construction of the solar pump.

By means of a solar pump the situation of particularly the women and children will be improved. The

strenuous and dangerous task of fetching water from the water source every day will then become su-

perfluous.

Light and refrigeration for the health station

The number of immunizations and the number of births in Arso Amba’s health station have risen consider-

ably since the middle of 2014. The reason for this, on the one hand, is the fact that they now have the pos-

sibility of cooling medicine and vaccines. On the other hand, at long last, solar lighting means that births

can take place safely even at night. At the beginning of 2014 there was neither light nor refrigeration avail-

able.

“We, the women, and our children suffer particularly

because of this. Day after day we have to undertake

the arduous and dangerous journey to the water

source to fetch water for our families and the irrigation

of our fields. We would be greatly relieved if we, our

sisters and our children no longer had to walk the long

and difficult path to the water source.“

Mamit and Asnakech,

Villagers from Arso Amba


The health station (here outside) is a meeting place for the whole village and the surrounding smaller settle-

ments. Now more people, above all families with children, are coming there in order to be inoculated, for ex-

ample against measles. The solar refrigerator enables the correct storage of medicines and vaccines.

“The solar equipment makes my work

much easier! Thanks to the light and

refrigeration I can help people who

need medical care even at night or in

their homes. Everything has become

easier as a result and I can do more to

help the people - especially the women

and children.“

Sintayehu Abito,

Krankenschwester of the health station

in Arso Amba


3.2. Training

Important foundation stones for the improvement of living conditions are the transfer of knowledge and

the training of solar technicians. Providing the solar equipment is one important aspect but the real chal-

lenge is creating the necessary competency in the countries themselves, i.e. knowledge about solar en-

ergy and its fields of application, particularly in the off-grid sector. At the same time, it is essential to con-

vey the practical knowledge which is necessary for the planning and the execution.

For this reason we have been carrying out regular courses for years in Ethiopia in order to train solar

technicians. Based on our practical experience in rural electrification, we pass on our specialised

knowledge and technical know-how.

The Stiftung Solarenergie – Solar Energy Foundation Ethiopia continued its training and courses for solar

technicians last year as well. These are directed at small and medium-sized firms in Ethiopia and take

place within the framework of the TERI-HoA-REC&N Clean Energy Projects. The aim is to provide more

households with light and electricity by means of solar energy. To achieve this, more trained specialists

are urgently needed.

Samson Tsegaye, the director, and Yonas Workie, chief engineer of the Stiftung Solarenergie – Solar En-

ergy Foundation Ethiopia, plan and coordinate the training courses. Samson Tsegaye is very satisfied

with the courses: “In addition to general knowledge about electricity and an introduction to photovolta-

ics, the topics are, in particular, the installation of solar systems and the basics of solar energy manage-

ment. The resonance is very good and we are planning several training courses for 2015 too. We are in-

creasingly being approached by women, and this pleases us in particular because the percentage of

women in paid employment is still very low. This opens new possibilities for them to earn money too. Due

to our long years of experience we are able to convey to the participants the relevant technical

knowledge and successfully prepare them for their day-to-day work. At the same time, these courses are

also an ideal opportunity for the participants to share their experiences. “

Yonas Workie added: “We enjoy carrying out these workshops. In this way we are contributing directly

not only to an improvement of the energy supply but also to the training situation in Ethiopia. Knowledge

about this modern and environmentally friendly technology is an essential prerequisite if it is to be ap-

plied in a professional way.”

http://www.hoarec.org/index.php/en/activities-energy/teri-hoarec-n-clean-energy-project


3.3. Education

Education is a human right and a fundamental prerequisite for

development. Nevertheless, there are 72 million children

worldwide who do not go to school. Half of them live in Africa. And

even worse: Millions of children have to terminate their school

education early. The reasons for this are poor infrastructure, long

distances to schools, badly equipped schoolrooms and the poor

quality of the schools. A further big problem is the lack of

opportunity to learn at home and either to prepare for lessons or

learn the material dealt with in the lessons.

For many children, particularly girls, going to school is not a matter

of course. Frequently they are expected to work at home and in the

fields and accordingly have no possibility of going to school. After

sunset it is hardly possible to do homework because of the poor

lighting. For these reasons the children in very poor regions have little chance to go to school and complete

their schooling. This is where our programme Licht für Bildung/ Light for Education comes into action. Solar

energy with its clean, bright light improves the situation fundamentally. And not only the educational

situation of the children is improved but also that of the adults, as our activities in Ethiopia have shown.

“I’m happy that I am able to

go to school and later on I

would love to study. Thanks

to solar light I can now pre-

pare for my lessons in the

evening too.“

Hiwot,

Female pupil from Arso

Amba


At the end of December we provided three of the classrooms in the school in Arso Amba with light and fur-

ther rooms will follow. In the rainy period teaching can take place without any problems and teachers can

use the rooms to prepare lessons. In the evening time lessons can now take place for the adults too. This

was a particular wish of the inhabitants of Arso Ambo, in particular of the women.

A quarter of the people in developing countries can hardly read or write. The problem is not a lack of inter-

est. The adults only have time for schooling and learning at the end of the working day. A lack of light is the

fundamental problem here too. Now that the classrooms have lighting, no more obstacles are standing in

the way.

Ethiopia/ Education in

Arso Amba

We are switching on the

light in Arso Amba‘s

school!

“Solar energy means a lot for me and my family. In

the evening my children can now learn and have no

problems with their eyes anymore. And now, at

long last, I can also learn to read and write. Up until

now I have had to sign documents with my finger-

print. I hope I will soon be able to sign with my

name!“

Etabez,

Female villager from Arso Amba


The courses began at the end of 2014 and the participants could decide - in accordance with their interests

and level of education - between two main subjects.

Course level 1: Reading and writing in Amharic and basic mathematics

Course level 2: Agricultural knowledge, health topics, social studies, international politics

At the beginning the teachers of Arso Amba are carrying out these courses free of charge but if they are to

continue on a regular basis we will work together with the inhabitants to develop a plan in order to make

them long-term, independent and financially viable.

More education by means of solar energy - the aim of our initiative was to ensure equal schooling opportuni-

ties for girls and boys. The key to this are libraries. They offer everybody, independent of their income, sta-

tus, age, gender or origins, free access to a source of education, in the classic sense to books. The Stiftung

Solarenergie – Solar Energy Foundation has set up a special kind of library in the partner countries: Here tab-

let computers and solar hand lamps are being implemented.

Tablet library in Rema

Since December 2014, Rema, our second solar village, owns the first tablet library in Ethiopia. Due to our

support, a total of 27 Samsung tablets are now available to the girls and boys of the higher classes. The tab-

lets are charged by a solar charging station and then - depending on how they are being utilized - can be

used for up to 10 hours. Ethiopian educational software is installed on the tablets which enables the pupils

to repeat material and deepen their knowledge of the learning content, particularly in the fields of science.

The software is called FIDEL and is from Ahadoo Tech Plc, an Ethiopian software developer which continually

maintains and develops it free of charge. Units are available particularly for the subjects mathematics, phys-

ics, biology and geography.

Solar libraries

in Ethiopia and in

the Philippines


Up until know the tablet library has been located in the rooms of the community centre of Rema. The em-

ployees of the Stiftung Solarenergie – Solar Energy Foundation there are responsible for the coordination,

charging, updates and the administration. In the long term these tasks should be taken over by one of the

teachers in Rema. If this programme proves to be successful, it could also be applied to other schools.

Rema's pupils are really enthusiastic about the new learning possibilities. The learning content is not only

presented in a new and different way, they also come into contact with technology. One of the supervisors

of the tablet library reported: "The children really like working with the tablets. They are proud of these new

possibilities and feel more connected with the world. It is too early to say exactly how much the children will

benefit from them, but the enthusiasm with which they approach the learning content is high, even after

school. I feel that even that is worth a lot."

Setting up the tablet library has taken a long time on account of problems arising from the concrete realisa-

tion and problems with the customs. However, we are now delighted that we were finally able to open the

tablet library in 2014.

Philippines / solar libraries and solar schools

The principle of sharing is also pursued by the Light for Education programme at Philippine schools. In solar

libraries pupils can borrow solar hand lamps by the week or over the weekend. This programme was initiated

by the Solar Energy Foundation together with the Philippine Ministry of Education. In addition to the ad-

vance in educational opportunities for the children and improved teaching conditions for the teachers, a

consciousness for the advantages and new possibilities offered by solar energy is also awakened.

A total of ten schools are to be provided with a solar library in the provinces of Rizal, Panay, SocSarGen and

Palawan. In 2014 we supplied the elementary and higher school in Apia in the province Rizal with one. The

area there is mountainous and very difficult to reach. Up until now there was no access to electricity there at

all - a good reason for us to improve opportunities there.


A solar library consists of 20-500 solar lamps and a solar charging

station. Pupils can borrow a lamp there, charge it and use it at home. In

order to finance maintenance and replacements, the pupils have to pay

a small contribution for each week they use it. If the lamps are lent out

over a longer period of time, they have to have them checked at least

once a week at the solar library. This helps to slow down wear and tear.

Jim Ayala, Director of the Stiftung Solarenergie – Solar Energy

Foundation Philippines: "Our programme promotes educational

possibilities in those schools which have neither access to light nor

electricity: that means approximately 8,000 schools in the Philippines.

Solar energy offers the solution to the problem. For this reason, we, the

foundation, provide solar lamps which can be used at home too. The

effect is enormous. According to studies which we have carried out in

the schools concerned, the learning motivation has increased by 97%

and learning time by 45%."

A female teacher working at the elementary school in Apia reported

her experiences to us: "We are really enthusiastic. The children cannot

only learn under better conditions, they also learn to assume responsi-

bility because they have to think about borrowing and returning the

lamp and treating it carefully. Even the charging of the lamp is one of

their tasks. Another good thing about it is that the other members of

the family can use the lamp too. This means that everyone benefits from

it. Of course, we also use the lamps for lessons because the classrooms

are often so dark that we would otherwise have to hold the lessons out-

side. Now we can remain in the classroom, are protected from the heat

and the rain and teachers and pupils can concentrate better.“

In addition, the teachers' living quarters near the school are being equipped and provided with a multimedia

room. This can be used for parents' evenings or evening training sessions for teachers. The teachers can then

prepare themselves for the lessons more efficiently.

We will continue this programme in 2015.

Jim Ayala, Director of the

Stiftung Solarenergie – Solar Energy

Foundation Philippines:

“Our programme promotes educational

opportunities in schools which have ac-

cess to neither light nor electricity: That

applies to approximately 8,000 schools on

the Philippines. Solar energy provides us

with the solution. We, the Stiftung So-

larenergie, make solar lamps available to

the pupils which can also be used at

home. The effect has been incredible. Ac-

cording to studies which we carried out in

the schools involved, the motivation to

learn has increased by 97% and the aver-

age learning time is around 45% higher.“


Ethiopia / Kenya

Light on for the

health stations!

3.4. Health

In addition to water and nutrition, access to medical care and medicine is an important factor for a healthy

life. There is a close connection between poverty and health. The World Health Organization (WHO) speaks

of “poverty-related diseases”, i.e. illnesses which would be less serious if the living conditions were better, as

in the developed countries.

The basic healthcare provided by a health station consists of:

Treatment and diagnosis of illnesses

Medical prevention and inoculations

Medical care after accidents

Medical care for pregnant women and assistance when giving birth

For around 10,000 people the health station is the first place to go in the event of accidents, for vaccinations

and in all questions related to pregnancy and birth. As such it is an important pillar of the regional health sys-

tem. In many developing countries adequate basic medical care is still not available for most of the popula-

tion. In this context the lack of light and electricity are important factors.

Many rural health stations have to struggle with the problem

of having no light and no possibility to cool medicines and

vaccines. Under conditions like these it is often difficult or

impossible to treat people in the evening or at night.

Emergency cases and births at night constitute great risks.

For this reason, the Stiftung Solarenergie’s programme

“Solar energy for health stations in Ethiopia and Kenya” is

specifically targeted at combatting the lack of power and

light in the health stations.

Patron of this programme is PAUL HARTMANN AG.

“In our opinion good healthcare is one of the

fundamental values in a society. The Stiftung

Solarenergie wants just that: The health sta-

tions are optimally equipped with solar elec-

tricity and the patients‘ quality of life is im-

proved.“

Andreas Joehle,

Chairman of the Board of

Directors

PAUL HARTMANN AG


The basic solar “kit” consists of:

a solar refrigerator to cool medicines and vaccines

permanently installed solar light in the treatment rooms

solar headlamp for concentrated light

mobile solar lamps for use outside and house calls

fetal heart doppler for the ultrasound monitoring of pregnancies

battery chargers for mobile telephones, doppler and headlamp

Rose Chiira, midwife at a Kenyan health station, told us about the posi-

tive effects solar equipment can have: “Solar light has changed every-

thing. Up until now we always had to close the health station at about 6

pm because in the evening we did not have enough light to treat people.

Thanks to the solar equipment and refrigeration we can now deal with

accidents at night too. We very much appreciate what the Stiftung So-

larenergie has done for us.”

In the last years the Stiftung Solarenergie and the partner foundations

in Kenya and Ethiopia have already supplied 40 health stations with so-

lar power. 100 further health stations are now to follow: This is the tar-

get of the programme “Solar energy for health stations in Ethiopia and

Kenya” which began on 29th October 2014.

Since the project started we have already found the funding to equip the first stations. In the middle of 2015

we will begin with realisation and hope by then to have found further support for this programme.

The greatest

problems

without a

power sup-

ply:

Gathu Kirubi, Director of the

Stiftung Solarenergie –Solar Energy Foun-

dation Kenya:

“The provision of reliable basic solar equip-

ment can improve the situation for the

people in Kenya decisively. State-promoted

immunization campaigns and free medica-

tion are useless if vaccines and medicines

cannot be stored in sufficient quantities.

Reliable provisioning also means providing

sufficient light. We want our work to lead

to significant progress!“

No possibility to treat patients after sunset (after approx. 6 pm)

Inadequate means for cooling medicines and vaccines

Inadequate healthcare for pregnant women

Makeshift support for the frequent nightime births

In the event of accidents, no treatment at night or house calls

Limited availability because there is no possibility to charge mobile phones

Lack of safety in the night


Better emergency medical assistance for mothers and children is also the emphasis of the programme “Light

for health“ of the Stiftung Solarenergie Philippines. Since 2013 the Stiftung Solarenergie Philippines in con-

junction with We Care Solar, an American NGO, has been equipping rural health stations with solar suitcases:

Solar suitcases are emergency cases with solar operated medical devices and solar light for better healthcare

and birth supervision. We continued with this programme in 2014.

The health stations are situated on Palawan, CeBu, Leyte and Samar, i.e. in regions which were hit by Ty-

phoon Hayan in 2013 and by Typhoon Rammasun last year.

Vor allem für den Notfalleinsatz bilden die Solar Suitcases eine wichtige Unterstützung, Schwerpunkt

liegt hier auf der Geburtshilfe.

Philippines

Solar suitcases

for the emergency medical

assistance of mothers and

children!

Distribution of solar suitcases on the Philippines (status 12/2014)

Source: Solar Energy Foundation Philippines


The solar suitcases create better preconditions for a reliable supervision

of women giving birth and are particularly important in the event of med-

ical emergencies and birth complications. Many regions of the Philippines

are still devastated and it is the mothers and the children who suffer

most. The solar suitcases can contribute towards improving this situation.

A solar suitcase is equipped with: Two 20 Watt solar panels, a 14 AH bat-

tery,a 15 A charge controller, two headlamps and a fetal heart

doppler.

Amongst others, the Health Office in the province Iloilo (the largest province on the island of Panay in the

Philippines) received 20 solar suitcases for the health stations there. The people on-site are very happy

about this support. The communal health officer, Patricia Grace, reported as follows: “This support by the

Foundation helps us to provide healthcare for mothers and children, above all in those communities which

were devastated by Typhoon Hayan last year and which are still being rebuilt.”

“I am very happy that I could

give birth in the health sta-

tion. The birth wasn’t easy

and took place at night.

Thanks to the midwife and

thanks to the solar light eve-

rything went well!“

Angelica,

a young Philippine mother

Source: We Care Solar


3.5. Public relations

The public relations of the Stiftung Solarenergie – Solar Energy Foundation in Europe has two aims:

1. Consciousness-raising, particularly with the aim of showing a different picture of developing countries. The

picture which is normally presented is one which shows only poor people but this does not correspond to

the facts. This image is mainly due to the business strategy of the numerous relief aid organizations who are

trying to increase the flow of donations.

2. Information and reports about the work of the Stiftung Solarenergie – Solar Energy Foundation to inform

donors about how the financial means have been used and to raise further funding.

Important elements of public relations work in 2014:

Enlargement and development of the Inter-

net platform www.sun‐connect.org (on the

right). This is a free platform with tips, re-

ports on our experiences and basic stimuli

about matters related to rural electrification.

Part of this platform is a monthly mailing ser-

vice to more than 6,000 recipients.

Participation at conferences in 2014:

15. 4.: Lecture in Mainz about the foundation and the cooperative by Urstrom eG

11.-13.07: Chamber of Trade workshop “Business Models for Rural Electrification by Solar Home

Systems (SHS)”

24.07: Webinar “Engineering for Chance”/view by following this link: https://goo.gl/x4CH2T

4.11.: Lecture at the REPIC Study Day in Freiburg/Switzerland

18.11.: Lecture in Maputo (Mozambique): Entrepreneur Day Off-Grid Photovoltaic in Mozam-

bique (Organizers: GIZ and Southern African-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (AHK Süd-

liches Afrika)

http://www.sun‐connect.org/


Flyers and publications of the Stiftung Solarenergie – Solar Energy Foundation:

Health station programme

No Grid? No Problem! 32 Tips for Sustainable Off-Grid Business by Harald Schützeichel

Interim report Philippines

Interim report Arso Amba

The Stiftung Solarenergie – Solar Energy Foundation has registered itself

at the Initiative Transparente Zivilgesellschaft (Transparent Civil Society Initi-

ative). As an alternative to the DZI donation seal, which requires payment, it

gives an overview of the articles of the organization, the names of the im-

portant decision makers as well as information about the financial sources, the way in which the funds are

used and the structure of the personnel.

The network of Stiftung Solarenergie – Solar Energy

Foundation, StS International Network for Rural Devel-

opment, is on Facebook. Here you can inform yourself

regularly about upcoming projects, publications, press

articles, films and news in German and English. You can

also share interesting information with us here.

Become part of our network and help us to get our work

more well known:

Also check out the Partner Foundations on Facebook:

Stiftung Solarenergie Ethiopia

Stiftung Solarenergie Philippines

http://www.sun-connect-news.org/fileadmin/DATEIEN/Dateien/No-grid-no-problem_onlineversion.pdf

http://www.sun-connect-news.org/fileadmin/DATEIEN/Dateien/No-grid-no-problem_onlineversion.pdf

http://stiftung-solarenergie.de/fileadmin/Dateien/Broschueren_Infomaterial/Yolanda-Bericht_2014-.pdf

http://stiftung-solarenergie.de/fileadmin/Dateien/Broschueren_Infomaterial/Zwischenbericht_Arso_Amba_2014_final.pdf

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Solar-Energy-Foundation-Ethiopia/794695420610973?fref=ts

https://www.facebook.com/solarenergiePH?fref=ts


3.6. Fundraising activities

“Ride for Light“. In 2014 friends and donors of the

Solar Energy Foundation from Ethiopia and the Neth-

erlands cycled again from Arso Amba to the Solar Val-

ley, near Addis Abeba. They rode 350 km in three

days, mostly uphill and downhill, under the motto

“Ride for Light”! A total of €10,000 was raised in this

way. The organizer was the Solar Energy Foundation

of the Netherlands. You can find more information

about this in the press release under the heading “The

Solar Energy Foundation in the press”.

In 2014 a number of companies and organizations supported us

in our Christmas donation campaign again. They gave their Christmas

donations under the motto “Light for Education” and “Light for Life”,

supporting above all our work in Ethiopia.

We are extremely grateful to all companies and organizations who sup-

ported the Solar Energy Foundation and the people in Ethiopia!

For more information, see our Website.

Mailing and our new

newsletter about the activities of the Solar Energy Foundation

Should you be interested in receiving information from us, you

can register either under the following link

http://solar-energy-foundation.org/press-reports/newsletter/

or here:

http://solar-energy-foundation.org/press-reports/pressearchiv/

http://solar-energy-foundation.org/press-reports/newsletter/


3.7. Foundation of the Sun-Connect eG cooperative

Based on the many years of activity and experience of

the Stiftung Solarenergie – Solar Energy Foundation in

the field of rural electrification in Africa and Asia, the

Sun-Connect eG was founded on 17.02.2014.

As a cooperative Sun-Connect eG continues the work of the Solar Energy Foundation on a commercial basis.

In the last ten years the Solar Energy Foundation has clearly demonstrated in many different ways how the

construction of a network of service stations and the sale of solar systems with the aid of a hire purchase

model can successfully work. For legal reasons the Stiftung Solarenergie – Solar Energy Foundation can no

longer finance this pioneer work with donations. In addition, the work of the Stiftung Solarenergie – Solar

Energy Foundation was always oriented towards constructing a self-sustainable solar trade in the partner

countries, thus allowing it to withdraw as a donation organization one day. In our opinion, the time for this

was now ripe. The six existing foundations founded the Sun-Connect eG cooperative in order to continue the

work on a commercial basis. The Stiftung Solarenergie – Solar Energy Foundation will, however, continue its

work by supporting the training of solar technicians and carrying out communal projects (health stations, wa-

ter pumps etc.) and pilot projects (solar villages).

By 31.12.2014 the cooperative had 82 members

who held cooperative shares to the value of

€558,400.

For further information about the cooperative go

to:

http://sun-connect.org/en.html

http://sun-connect.org/en.html


4. The Stiftung Solar Energie – Solar Energy Foundation in

the press

Downloadable at: http://solar-energy-foundation.org/press-reports/pressearchiv/

or by simply clicking the links below.

Article about the Stiftung Solarenergie (German and English):

Äthiopien Armut lindern durch Hilfe zur Selbsthilfe

in: BIB FAIR BANKING-Magazin 1/2014

After-sales Service and Local Presence: Key Factors for Solar Energy Innovations Diffusion in Developing

Countries (Kassahun et al.)

Presented in May 2014 at the PICMET conference in Japan

Sonnenenergie für Gesundheitsstationen in Afrika

Press release from 29th October 2014

Solar Energy for Health Centers in Africa


Cycle for Light Tour 2014 collects € 10,000


Transparenz für die gute Sache

in: BIZZ energy today, 11/2014

Solar suitcases panels to power Iloilo clinics

at: www.rappler.com 10. Dezember 2014

Licht fuer Kinderaugen Wattline Weihnachtsspende

in: Wattline Winter Magazin/06.12.2014

Videos concerning the Stiftung Solarenergie:

Solar libraries: Light for Education Program at Apia, Antipolo

Thanks for donations from the Philippines: Herosalia from the Manicani islands, Philippines, sincerely

thanks all donors.

http://solar-energy-foundation.org/press-reports/pressearchiv/

http://stiftung-solarenergie.de/fileadmin/Dateien/Presse/Aethiopien__Armut_lindern_durch_Hilfe_zur_Selbsthilfe_2014.pdf

http://stiftung-solarenergie.de/fileadmin/Dateien/Presse/After-sales_Service_and_Local_Presence_Key_Factors.pdf

http://stiftung-solarenergie.de/fileadmin/Dateien/Presse/After-sales_Service_and_Local_Presence_Key_Factors.pdf

http://stiftung-solarenergie.de/fileadmin/Dateien/Presse/Programmstart_Solarenergie_fuer_Gesundheitsstationen_in_Afrika_StS_Pressemitteilung_291014.pdf

http://stiftung-solarenergie.de/fileadmin/Dateien/Presse/Programmstart_Solarenergie_fuer_Gesundheitsstationen_in_Afrika_StS_Pressemitteilung_291014.pdf

http://stiftung-solarenergie.de/fileadmin/Dateien/Presse/Pressrelease_Ride_for_Light_2014.pdff

http://stiftung-solarenergie.de/fileadmin/Dateien/Presse/BIZZ_Transparenz_fuer_die_gute_Sache_bettzieche_BIZZ_0714.pdf

http://stiftung-solarenergie.de/fileadmin/Dateien/Presse/BIZZ_Transparenz_fuer_die_gute_Sache_bettzieche_BIZZ_0714.pdf

http://stiftung-solarenergie.de/fileadmin/Dateien/Presse/Licht_fuer_Kinderaugen_Wattline_Weihnachtsspende_2014.pdf

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yV3ljeD8og4&feature=youtu.be

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aCCw_gHabo4&feature=em-upload_owner

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aCCw_gHabo4&feature=em-upload_owner


5. Imprint

Published by:

Solar Energy Foundation Germany Solar Energy Foundation Switzerland

Weberstrasse 10 Postfach 380

79249 Merzhausen 8042 Zürich

Germany Switzerland

[email protected] [email protected]

www.stiftung-solarenergie.de www.stiftung-solarenergie.ch

Texts:

Eva-Maria Forstmeier, Dr. Harald Schützeichel

Photo credits:

All photographs: Solar Energy Foundation

Time period:

01.01.2014- 31.12.2014

Languages:

This annual report is available in German and English

Ethiopia

Bole Subcity

P.O. Box 22734/1000

Addis Ababa

Germany

Weberstrasse 10

79249 Merzhausen

Kenya

Off-Thika Road

P.O. Box 4617-00200

Nairobi

Netherlands

Wilhelminalaan 24

NL 5691 AZ Son en Breu-gel

Philippines

1609 Cypress St

Dasmarinas Village

Makati City 1222

Switzerland

Postfach 380

8042 Zürich

Donation accounts:

Volksbank Freiburg PostFinance

IBAN: DE78 6809 0000 0037 3830 07 IBAN CH37 0900 0000

BIC: GENODE61FR1 BIC POFICHBEXXX

The Solar Energy Foundation is recognized as a charitable organization.

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.stiftung-solarenergie.de/

http://www.stiftung-solarenergie.ch/


6. Our supporters

The work of the Stiftung Solarenergie – Solar Energy Foundation was supported last year amongst others by

the following companies and organizations:

In addition many private donors have supported our work with donations. Without your dedication to our

cause we would not be able to fight for long-term improvements in the living conditions in Africa and Asia.

Our sincere thanks to you all!


APPENDIX

7th Financial Report 2014


A. Stiftung Solarenergie - Solar Energy Foundation Germany

BALANCE SHEET as of 31st December 2014

ASSETS

EUR

A. FIXED ASSETS

I. Intangible assets 417.00

II. Tangible assets 1,835.00

III. Financial assets 14,982.27

B. CURRENT ASSETS

I. Receivables, other assets 17,234.27

II. Securities 105,397.36

III. cash, bank accounts 166,233.08

C. PREPAID EXPENSES AND DEFERRED CHARGES 0.00

__________

288,864.71

==========

LIABILITIES

EUR

A. EQUITY

I. Foundation capital 148,130.91

II. Revenue reserves 0.00

III. Retained earnings 131,190.76

B. PROVISIONS

I. Other provisions 4,500.00

C. LIABILITIES 5,043.04

__________

288,864.71

==========


B. Stiftung Solarenergie - Solar Energy Foundation Switzerland

BALANCE SHEET as of 31st December 2014

ASSETS

CHF

A. CURRENT ASSETS

I. Liquid funds and securities 33,162.91

II. Prepaid expenses and deferred charges 0.00

B. FIXED ASSETS

I. movable tangible assets 1,200.00

II. Financial assets 137,001.29

C. CAPITALISED EXPENSES AND ACTIVE ADJUSTING ENTRIES 0.00

__________

171,364.20

==========

LIABILITIES

CHF

A. CURRENT LIABILITIES

I. Current liabilities trade receivables 5,139.45

II. Accrued expenses and deferred income 3,800.00

III. Current provisions 136,742.80

B. EQUITY

I. Foundation capital 50,000.00

II. Net income -24,318.05

C. LOSS -125,352.34

__________

171,364.20

==========


C. Utilization of funds in Germany and Switzerland

Revenue Foundation D Foundation CH

Donations 205,932 Euro 30,900 CHF

Other revenue 3,968 Euro 0 CHF

Total: 209,900 Euro 30,900 CHF

Expenditure

Ethiopia

Solar village “Arso Amba” 55,920 Euro = 67,230 CHF

Light for Education 114,662 Euro = 137,848 CHF

Revolving Fund 67,480 Euro = 81,125 CHF

Health stations 13,010 Euro = 15,642 CHF

Kenya

Health stations 11,984 Euro = 14,408 CHF

Philippines

Typhoon “Yolanda“ 30,667 Euro = 36,871 CHF

Europe

Training, education, consciousness-raising 6,799 Euro = 8,175 CHF

Sun-Connect newsletter 15,010 Euro = 18,046 CHF

General administration costs (D and CH) 27,813 Euro = 33,439 CHF

Total: 343,346 Euro = 412,784 CHF

The means for the project work came in part from the appropriation of reserves.

Exchange rate euro/CHF: 31.12.2014.


Allocation of funds as per project

20%

16%

34%2%

4%

9%

8%

7% Revolving Fund

Solar village "Arso Amba"

Light for Education

Health Stations

Consciousness-raising in Europe

Sun-Connect Newsletter

Typhoon Yolanda

General administration

Project work as per country

8%

6%

3%

9%

74%

Project work in Ethiopia

Project work in Kenya

Project work in the Philippines

Project work in Europe

General administration

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