In the scorching summer heat along the U.S.-Mexico border, electricity isn’t just a luxury—it’s a lifeline. But for many low-income families, high utility bills make it difficult to keep the lights on, the air conditioning running, or even food safely stored in the fridge. The Solar Electric Light Fund (SELF), in partnership with the Sempra Foundation, is working to change that.

A recent project in South Texas is improving access to solar energy for low-income families. The neighborhood of Eldora, located outside of McAllen, is the site of a solar electrification initiative that has brought clean energy to 79 individuals. The results have been life changing.

Take it from Nancy Mireles Martínez, a local resident whose family received solar panels through the project. Before installation, her summer electricity bills were as high as $400 per month. Now, she’s paying as little as $42. “We are eternally grateful,” Nancy shared in a recent video.

These solar systems are more than just a way to cut costs. They also build climate resilience in a region where temperatures can easily top 100°F. Here, electricity is a matter of health and safety, especially as climate change intensifies.

For families already navigating economic hardship, solar energy can make a world of difference. The monthly savings have allowed families like Nancy’s to better afford things like groceries, medications, and programs for their kids. It’s reduced strain on budgets and allowed recipients to put in place the building blocks for a brighter future. This is the power of solar energy for low-income families.

At SELF, we believe access to electricity is a human right. But in the United States, thousands of households—especially in marginalized, rural, and border communities—still face energy insecurity. Our project in South Texas is helping to change that, one panel at a time.

To hear directly from Nancy, watch her story here:

Interested in supporting this work? Donate now to help us bring solar energy to families who need it most.