The Solar Electric Light Fund (SELF) uses the power of the sun to fight poverty and climate change.

Energy poverty is at the root of some of our biggest global inequities—from education to food security to public health. SELF works with communities around the world to establish solar energy projects, with a focus on environmental justice, community ownership, and scalable outcomes.

SELF was born upon the idea that everyone, everywhere should have access to the lifechanging benefits energy provides. In 1990, SELF’s founder, Neville Williams, began exploring how small solar energy systems can improve life for families in rural parts of Nepal, Sri Lanka, and western China. With access to a modest amount of power, these rural households could enjoy the benefits of nighttime lighting and compact radios. SELF expanded its work across Asia, installing and financing solar home systems for off-grid families. The success of this model lead to a spin-off, for-profit enterprise, the Solar Electric Light Company (SELCO), which maintains operations in India today. Williams stepped down to lead SELCO, and Robert Freling stepped into the role of executive director.

In 2000, SELF embraced a new vision, one that moved beyond the home and into the community. SELF spearheaded the Whole Village Development Model—an integrated philosophy that harnesses solar energy to improve resources like healthcare, education, and clean water. This philosophy has guided SELF’s work for more than two decades, fueling diverse projects that explore the broader impacts of energy access.

Building a solar array deep in the Amazon allowed Indigenous groups to access telemedicine and store vaccines. Bringing solar to northern Nigeria helped power new businesses and expand commerce. Installing solar in rural Bhutan offered locals a higher quality of life, while preserving a delicate local environment.

Across dozens of countries, we’ve seen how energy plants the seed for new opportunity. All of SELF’s projects are community-driven, ensuring local needs are honored and met. SELF’s projects meet high standards of replicability and scalability, allowing other organizations and governments to adopt and expand our concepts.

Today, SELF continues to grow its impact around the world. We thank you for being part of our journey and supporting initiatives that make a difference.