Students Learn About Solar Power

Palo Alto-based One Million Lights’ mission is to deliver solar power to those people in rural communities who still depend on dirty kerosene for lighting. By giving them solar lights, students can study more at night and improve their prospects. Now the organization has teamed up with SunPower Foundation on a project called One Million Students. The aim of the project is to educate students about the benefits and applications of alternative energy in different scenarios around the world.

The program consists of three, one-hour lesson plans which highlight real-life case studies on solar technology, including interactive learning tools such as LED lights and solar electricity testing kits. Teachers can choose curriculum based on specific education levels, including elementary school, middle school or high school. Plans can be integrated into existing environmental studies, math and science courses, and delivered by SunPower or One Million Lights representatives.

Earlier this year, the program was piloted in San Francisco Bay Area classrooms. “The One Million Students program has touched the hearts and minds of our 270 seventh-grade students,” said Curtis Schneider, a teacher at Egan Junior High School in Los Altos, California. “As a teacher, I value students learning how science can help the planet and those who are less fortunate. Two thumbs up and best wishes for the future of this program.”

Anna Sidana, founder of One Million Lights, said the organization is delighted to take part of the project. “One Million Students employs a creative approach to education and addresses the critical issue for renewable energy solutions in our lives. This program enables us to bring our global solar light programs full circle by sharing our experiences and knowledge with children here in the States.”

Teachers and students interested in registering their school for One Million Students or learning more about the program should visit the program’s website.

Article by Antonio Pasolini, a Brazilian writer and video art curator based in London, UK. He holds a BA in journalism and an MA in film and television.