Sam Goldman and Ned Tozun are the co-founders of d.light, a company dedicated to providing affordable and sustainable solar energy solutions to off-grid communities worldwide. Founded in 2007, d.light has transformed the lives of over 175 million people across 70 countries by offering solar-powered products that replace harmful kerosene lamps.
The Problem
Approximately 1.6 billion people globally lack access to reliable electricity, relying on kerosene lamps and candles for lighting. These sources are not only expensive and inefficient but also pose significant health and safety risks, including respiratory issues and fire hazards. The absence of affordable and sustainable energy options perpetuates cycles of poverty and limits economic development in these communities.
The Solution
d.light addresses this issue by developing and distributing solar-powered products, such as lanterns, home systems, and appliances, designed specifically for off-grid households. Their products offer a safer, more affordable, and environmentally friendly alternative to kerosene lamps. Additionally, d.light's pay-as-you-go (PAYGo) financing model allows customers to purchase products through small, manageable payments, making solar energy accessible to low-income families.
The Motivation
Sam and Ned's motivation stems from their shared commitment to social entrepreneurship and a desire to make a tangible impact on global energy access. Sam, during his time as a Peace Corps volunteer in Benin, witnessed the dangers of kerosene lamps firsthand when a neighbor almost died from a kerosene lamp accident, inspiring him to seek safer alternatives. Ned, with a background in engineering and a passion for technology's potential to drive social change, partnered with Sam to develop d.light's innovative solutions.
The Lessons
The founders' journey with d.light offers valuable lessons in social entrepreneurship:
Innovative Problem-Solving: Addressing complex social issues through technological innovation can lead to scalable and sustainable solutions.
Market Understanding: Deep insights into the target market's needs and constraints are crucial for developing products that are both effective and accessible.
Financial Inclusion: Implementing flexible financing models, like PAYGo, can overcome economic barriers and expand access to essential services.
Conclusion
Sam Goldman and Ned Tozun's creation of d.light exemplifies how combining innovation, market understanding, and financial inclusion can address critical global challenges. Their dedication continues to inspire efforts toward providing sustainable energy solutions to underserved communities worldwide.