Leading the Fight Against Energy Poverty Since 1990
For 35 years, the Solar Electric Light Fund has used the power of the sun to bring electricity to more than one million people in the world’s most remote communities.
Mission
Our Mission: The Solar Electric Light Fund (SELF) uses the power of the sun to fight poverty and climate change.
Energy poverty is at the root of some of our biggest global inequities, from education to food security to public health. SELF works with communities around the world to establish solar energy projects, with a focus on environmental justice, community ownership, and scalable outcomes.
History
Our History: 35 Years of Solar Innovation
SELF was born upon the idea that everyone, everywhere should have access to the life-changing benefits energy provides.
1990-2000: Pioneering Solar Home Systems In 1990, SELF’s founder, Neville Williams, began exploring how small solar energy systems can improve life for families in rural parts of Nepal, Sri Lanka, and western China. SELF expanded its work across Asia, installing and financing solar home systems for off-grid families. The success of this model led to SELCO, which maintains operations in India today.
2000-2010: The Whole Village Development Model
In 2000, under executive director Robert Freling, SELF embraced a new vision that moved beyond the home and into the community. SELF pioneered the Whole Village Development Model, an integrated philosophy that harnesses solar energy to improve healthcare, education, and clean water access.
2010-Present: Scaling Proven Models
This philosophy has guided SELF’s work for more than two decades, fueling diverse projects that demonstrate the broader impacts of energy access:
- Building solar arrays in the Amazon for telemedicine and vaccine storage
- Powering businesses and commerce in northern Nigeria
- Installing solar in rural Bhutan for quality of life and environmental preservation
Across 25+ countries, we’ve seen how energy plants the seed for new opportunity. All projects are community-driven, ensuring local needs are honored and met.
SELF's work has spanned 25+ countries
Since 1990, SELF has:
Worked in
countries across five continents
Installed
solar systems
Served
people with solar electricity access
Our Approach
We don’t just electrify individual homes—we power entire communities through our Whole Village Development Model.
Innovate
SELF develops cutting-edge technologies and models that scale. Our Solar Market Gardens, healthcare electrification methods, and microgrid designs are tried-and-tested models ready for replication.
Collaborate
Community engagement is at the core of our work. “Our relationship with local villagers has to start with respect and a desire to collaborate as equal partners.” — Jeff Lahl, Special Projects Manager
Impact
Our integrated programs go further, supporting people and planet alike. By deploying renewable energy in communities most vulnerable to climate change, we provide clean electricity while reducing carbon emissions.
Recognition & Awards
UNFCCC Momentum for Change Lighthouse Award (2015)
Our Solar Market Gardens in Benin won this United Nations award at the Paris Climate Summit for innovative climate solutions.
Grand Challenges Explorations Grant
Recognized by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
King Hussein Leadership Award (2008)
Executive Director Bob Freling received this award from Her Majesty Queen Noor for leadership in international development.
Meet the Team Behind Our Work
Bob Freling
Executive Director (since 1997)
Jean-Baptiste Certain
Project Director
Lisa Esler
Finance Director
Frequently asked questions
Have More Questions?
How long has SELF been working on solar energy access?
SELF was founded in 1990, making us one of the pioneering organizations in off-grid solar development. For 35 years, we’ve been refining our approach to rural electrification.
Where does SELF work?
We’ve completed projects in 25+ countries, including Uganda, Haiti, Benin, Rwanda, Colombia, Nepal, Tanzania, and the Navajo Nation.
How is SELF different from other solar nonprofits?
SELF’ work goes beyond household lighting to address pressing needs at the community scale. By electrifying schools, hospitals, farms, and more, we strive to maximize tangible benefits to folks living beyond the electric grid.
How can I support SELF's work?
Donate online, explore partnership opportunities, or read more about our work