LocationsSolar-powered transformation is Empowering Women and Illuminating Rural Communities
Illuminating Lives with Solar Panels
December 13, 2024
The lights installed through the Pacific Green Transformation Project give family and community more time to socialize
UNDP Timor-Leste/ Clara Santos
For 30-year-old Geomar da Costa Amaral, night in Suco Tutuluro used to be defined by darkness, limited activity and early bedtimes. Evenings were spent by the dim flickering candlelight, until the summer of 2024 when all that changed.
Geomar lives in a small village in Suco Tutuluro, Manufahi Municipality, located in the southern part of Timor-Leste. She is a stay-at-home mother who manages her home and cares for her four children, while her husband works to support them.
Suco Tutuluro is a typical remote Timorese village, lacking basic infrastructure. There is no running water in their homes and the nearest water source is miles away. This makes it difficult for Geomar to fetch water, but her husband, who is more physically capable, undertakes this task every morning before going to work. He brings back the water for her to use for cooking and cleaning.
The village also lacks electricity, since the national electricity grid doesn’t reach the region, forcing villagers to rely on traditional energy sources such as kerosine and candles to cook or light their homes.
“We had to rely on small flashlights, candles or kerosene lamps for light at night. We spent a lot of money buying batteries for the flashlights. During the rainy season, it was harder because the darkness would be so overwhelming, and we didn’t have sufficient light for any outdoor tasks”.
However, in the summer of 2024, a transformative change happened. Through the UNDP’s Pacific Green Transformation Project funded by the Government of Japan. Geomar’s family received a solar panel kit. For the first time, she could light both the inside and outside of her home with reliable light.
With solar light, evenings have transformed for Geomar and her children. Instead of retreating inside when the sun sets, they have a newfound sense of security and freedom. The light has extended their time to do chores, study or simply be together as a family. The children can safely play in the yard, laugh and run, bringing special joy to Geomar and her neighbours.
Geomar shares how solar light have given her more sense of freedom and security
UNDP Timor-Leste/ Clara Santos
Geomar’s experience is shared by many women in rural communities. Ermina, 50, who lives in Foho Ailico, Ainaro Municipality shares a similar feeling when it comes to light and safety.
“The kids feel very happy, and we are happy for them. By having lights both inside and outside the house, they can play in the front yard and use up their energy until they feel sleepy and directly go to bed”.
The traditional role of women is still strong in these communities. Taking care of the house, children, and domestic chores are still heavily dependent on them. Not having an energy source during the night meant their time was very limited and they were only able to complete a number of tasks in a day. Through the installation of solar lights, women in these communities are more productive and more empowered to take charge of their time and priorities. They are no longer limited to a few hours of daylight, they’re able to complete tasks at their own pace, do income-generating work and spend more time with their family. This transformation allows them to contribute to household finances while fostering a better work-life balance, reinforcing their role as key contributors to community resilience and progress.
“Having light means more time, and more time means I can weave more traditional baskets that I can sell at the markets for additional income,” says 90-year-old Ersalina with a big smile, while rapidly weaving a new basket.
"I don’t remember how old I am, but I do know that I am happy about receiving the solar panel and the lights"Ersalina
Ersalina weaves traditional baskets as a source of income
UNDP Timor-Leste/ Clara Santos
Sustainably sourced electricity empowers women of all ages while contributing positively to the development of the country.
It can mean hope for children who want to pursue their education. It can mean more income for women who want to buy new clothes for their children. It can give young mothers time to relax and enjoy the night, knowing their children are safe playing in the yard.
As Timor-Leste moves toward prioritizing more climate-friendly development, clean energy is providing empowerment and opportunity for its people. With solar lights in their homes, women across the country can dream bigger, feel safer, and find new paths for growth and resilience.
Through the Pacific Green Transformation Project, UNDP and the Government of Japan remain committed to illuminating the lives of Timorese women and their communities, bringing the promise of a brighter, sustainable future for generations to come; empowering and supporting women to achieve their full potential through climate conscious progress.