Causes: International, International Relief

Mission: Our mission is to improve the quality of life in developing communities by pioneering ventures that provide access to sustainable energy technologies. Our vision is light in every home, clean air in every kitchen, and power in every hand.

Programs: Elephant energy trains entrepreneurs in market centers in rural areas of namibia, africa to distribute clean energy technologies, such as solar-powered lights and cell phone chargers. Clean energy technologies save customers money, reduce dependence on dirty fuels like kerosene, help children read and adults work, and allow rural families to communicate outside of their villages, among other benefits. Elephant energy's commission-based entrepreneurs model is ideal for reaching rural customers because the agent, being a part of the community, can readily provide products and information to customers; and the customers purchase the product from someone they know, facilitating a more trusting relationship and effective flow of information. Elephant energy's distribution model also allows for on-going contact and after-sales service, which prolongs the life of each clean energy product. Entrepreneurs also generate income for their families from the products they sell, delivering additional value to their communities. In 2014, elephant energy distributed over 3,700 clean energy technologies via our distribution network in rural namibia, while partnering with an additional 20 retail shops and engaging over 50 rural entrepreneurs.

elephant energy's program on the navajo nation, known locally as eagle energy, works with navajo people in both the eastern and western agencies of the navajo nation to develop effective models to finance and distribute clean energy technologies. Over 18,000 homes on the navajo nation and hopi reservation do not have access to electricity. Despite efforts to connect these households to the electric grid, a lack of funding and the remoteness of the reservation make grid access financially and practically unachievable. Throughout 2014, eagle energy implemented four initiatives: charitable distribution of solar systems in the homes of vulnerable elders; training and support for commission-based solar entrepreneurs; a solar heaters initiative to retrofit and install clean solar heating systems; and a solar schools initiative, developed to help increase the understanding of the value of solar energy and access to various solar products throughout the reservation.