The LEVEL-UP Program was originally sponsored by the US Government
Oceans and Environmental Sciences Department (OES) in collaboration with the Agricultural
Development Bank of Nepal (ADB/N) and administered through the 700 branches of the
ADB/N.
Inaugurated by U.S. Ambassador to Nepal Sandra Vogelgesang on Earth Day in
1994. The program continues to this day with over 5000 systems installed in various regions
throughout Nepal. The program provides villagers with an installment payment plan for
a small Lotus Energy 36 watt individually owned system. Solar Home System
(SHS).
Download SHS Article on Home Power Magazine
Inauguration of OES Project by Former U.S.
Ambassador Sandra Vogelgesang
As a result of the success of the LEVEL-UP program, awareness about solar PV
blossomed in the villages. However, not all villagers were eligible for systems and
communities could not apply for the loan program. In order to enable communities to
benefit from clean solar energy for lighting, TV and radio cassette players, Lotus Energy embarked
on a mission to fund donors who could sponsor all or part of a community
system. No system is completely free and village committees are encouraged to
participate financially as much as possible and also with input such as local
transportation, installation assistance, etc.
Programs HLF is
currently coordinating and developing several programs. The first Solar
Sisters program took
place in March 1999; we are now recruiting volunteers to
participate in upcoming programs. A feasibility study is underway
for our
Home
Employment and Lighting Program (HELP).
We are
currently seeking funds to support a village thanka
painting school which
could potentially provide much employment to local people.
On Going Projects
