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RS Group and SolarAid: A Partnership for a Brighter Future

RS Group plc, a global leader in providing product and service solutions for industrial customers, has announced a significant partnership with the international charity SolarAid. This collaboration aims to raise an impressive $1.17 million over the next three years to deliver clean and safe solar lighting to 150,000 individuals living in remote communities across Africa.

The initiative, which forms a core part of RS Group's 2030 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) action plan, reflects a commitment to not only combating poverty but also addressing climate change. By utilizing corporate donations, matched funding, product contributions, and employee fundraising activities, RS Group and SolarAid are set to accelerate the availability of sustainable energy solutions in areas currently without electricity.

Empowering Communities Through Solar Lighting

The partnership recognizes that access to clean solar lighting can serve as a transformative catalyst for education, safety, and economic opportunities. As highlighted by Andrea Barrett, Chief Sustainability Officer at RS Group, the benefits of solar technology extend beyond just light; they significantly reduce reliance on harmful kerosene lamps and candles, thereby decreasing both energy costs and carbon emissions. A single solar light can cut down the usage of traditional lighting methods by 90%, leading to substantial savings for families and an enhanced ability for children to study safely after dark.

According to SolarAid’s data, the environmental impact is equally notable. Kerosene lamps emit more than a ton of carbon dioxide every three years, making the transition to renewable solar energy a critical step towards a sustainable future. By distributing solar lights, RS Group and SolarAid aim to support the transition to green energy, contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.

Engaging Employees for Greater Impact

A unique aspect of this partnership is the emphasis on employee engagement. Both RS Group and SolarAid believe that the success of their mission relies heavily on creating active, informed participants across their organizations. This engagement includes several initiatives:

• - Skills-based Volunteering: Employees will have the opportunity to lend their expertise directly to SolarAid projects, such as enhancing the Repair App, which is designed to help communities repair solar lights and minimize waste.
• - On-the-ground Engagement: Team members can visit communities in Africa that are supported by SolarAid, enabling first-hand experiences and live demonstrations.
• - Night Without Light: An awareness campaign where employees spend a night without electricity highlights the challenges faced by off-grid populations.
• - Active for Change Challenge: A global fundraiser where employees engage in physical activities to raise money while fostering teamwork.

With a goal of inspiring at least 50% of RS employees to participate in volunteering, the partnership not only promises to mobilize resources for African communities but also fosters a culture of giving and social responsibility among employees.

Celebrating Achievements and Future Goals

The collective efforts have begun to show tangible results. For instance, in Kasakula, Malawi, a recent initiative called Light a Village succeeded in providing solar access to every household, school, and local clinic, offering a model for what can be achieved through strategic partnerships.

As both organizations press on with this formidable collaboration, John Keane, CEO of SolarAid, emphasizes the shared vision between SolarAid and RS Group: to deliver innovative solutions to reach those most in need. The statistics speak volumes; together, they can expand their mission to even more remote and disadvantaged communities, significantly improving their quality of life.

Building a Sustainable Future

The partnership embodies a commitment to long-term impact and serves as a continuation of RS Group's legacy of successful collaborations. Previously, RS Group raised nearly $1.17 million for The Washing Machine Project, showcasing their dedication to social innovation.

Overall, the partnership with SolarAid is a momentous step towards fulfilling a vision of a world where access to clean and renewable energy is the norm, not the exception. By leveraging the skills and enthusiasm of their employees, alongside committed financial support, RS Group and SolarAid are setting the stage for a brighter, more sustainable future for 150,000 people in Africa and beyond.

For more information about the collaboration and how you can contribute, visit RS Group’s and SolarAid’s websites.