SUNNY SIDE UP - FINALIST
LAOS

Remote villages in Laos will probably never enjoy the advantages of mains electricity. And most of them can't afford 'non-grid' alternatives such as petrol generators and batteries. Solar panels are the ideal solution. But the initial costs involved put solar technology way beyond the reach of most communities. Sunlabob Rural Energy Ltd is working to change all that. Rather than selling solar equipment outright, Sunlabob leases the hardware at easily affordable rates. Villagers can then experience the hitherto undreamed of benefits of clean, safe and reliable solar electricity.

Communications, educational attainment, health and productivity are all boosted by the introduction of solar power. Sunlabob aims to expand on its initial success in reaching over 1300 homes by supplying a further 1500 systems within the next year. While hire charges to the villages are minimal, Sunlabob is a commercially viable, self-sustaining business - which means that its vital services are not dependent on unpredictable grant funding. Sunlabob has ambitious plans to replicate its success through South-East Asia. As its founder Andy Schroeter puts it: 'This is definitely not a one-off project, but a well-anchored effort with a long term vision for a commercially viable alternative energy sector in the region.'