Powering Up: How New Sun Road's Energy Compact is Sparking a Sustainable Future!
The United Nations Energy Compact program was started in 2021 to help accomplish Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7): “Affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all”. Energy Compacts are voluntary commitments from countries and non-state actors, such as companies, regional/local governments, NGOs, and others to reach net-zero emissions and increase energy access. These compacts have had a major impact in enhancing electricity supply for 129 million people and access to clean cooking for 22 million people.
Energy Compacts prescribe explicit actions with goals and timelines. And in 2022, the Energy Compact Action Network was established to increase impact and execution by matching those with a Compact to investments and resources.
New Sun Road’s Energy Compact, “Scaling Digital Community Centers for National Impact in Guatemala” focuses on addressing the issue of energy access, internet connectivity, and bridging digital and entrepreneurial skills gaps. These centers would be located in rural parts of Guatemala, predominantly indigenous communities, and would leverage a currently successful program. New Sun Road has deployed 30 women-led Digital Community Centers (DCCs) in the Guatemalan highlands and this compact plans to increase that number to 3,000 by 2030.
The DCCs are equipped with a 3kW – 5kW solar PV system, battery storage, and satellite internet connectivity. The Stellar Microgrid OS™, a remote monitoring platform, enables essential support to ensure high reliability in these unelectrified locations. Opportunities to expand impact include providing solar power and internet to rural schools and health clinics.
Key commitments are:
- Install 3,000 solar-powered Digital Community Centers by 2030.
- Equip each center with reliable electricity, internet access, and digital tools.
- Train 5,000 community members in digital skills and system management.
- Empower 75,000 women through leadership and entrepreneurship programs
New Sun Road is on a mission to accelerate the deployment of clean energy. This Energy Compact is a significant step towards building collaborative momentum in sustainable development for Guatemala. We are grateful for the support and look forward to impactful partnerships!