SunBell multifunctional solar lantern and mobile charger

There are nearly 1 billion people in the world that live without access to electricity. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), half of those without electricity today will never be on the grid. Absence of basic energy access is a nearly unsurmountable barrier to progress for the very poorest people on Earth. High expenditures on kerosene for lighting prevents economic activity, while reducing life expectancy and quality through toxic fumes and hazardous fires. The absence of light means fewer hours available to do homework, run a business or socialize. Furthermore, the inability to communicate with others by use of mobile phones or radio means higher degrees of isolation and inefficiency.

BRIGHT’s solar products, in particular the SunBell, are tools to cover basic human needs and have the potential to improve or even rebuild lives. In 2014, the SunBell was selected as the first solar core relief item for the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR). Since then, over 2.4 million SunBell have been distributed by UNHCR to refugees and displaced people across 40 countries. They provide protection, empowerment, equality and dignity for people forced to flee their homes and in need of international aid assistance. A key factor in the classification of SunBell as a core relief item by UNHCR was its ability to create safe environments for women and children. Solar lanterns are known to reduce gender-based violence (GBV) in refugee camps. Furthermore, energy access empowers women to engage in economic activity without having to leave their home and children behind.

Distribution of over 2.4 million SunBell units worldwide, impacting 10 million lives. Designation as first solar core relief item by UNHCR; Reduction in gender-based violence in refugee camps; Increased economic activity for women in refugee camps.