The Solar Mamas - Women Powering the World with Solar Energy

Looking for a dose of good news during Climate Month?  In this inspiring episode of Good News from Planet Earth, host Diana Holguin introduces us to the Solar Mamas - mothers and grandmothers from rural communities around the world who are flipping the switch on energy poverty.

Armed with hands-on training from Barefoot College in India, these fearless women - many of whom cannot read or write - are becoming skilled solar engineers. They’re bringing clean, affordable light to thousands of homes, replacing toxic kerosene lamps, and proving that sustainable energy solutions don’t require a degree, just determination.

From Jordan to Zanzibar, the Solar Mamas are breaking gender stereotypes, generating income, and leading the way toward a cleaner, healthier future. Since 1997, over 3,500 women in 93 countries have been trained, bringing solar power to more than 2.5 million people worldwide.

If you love stories about climate solutions, women empowerment, and the brighter side of humanity, this uplifting episode will leave you inspired.

Listen now and celebrate Climate Month with a powerful reminder: sometimes the brightest light comes from the most unexpected places.

Narrated by Diana Holguin from Voiceover for the Planet

For further reading:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_Mamas?utm

https://www.environmentandsociety.org/mml/why-poverty-solar-mamas

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jan/15/solar-mamas-empower-our-people-by-giving-them-electricity-the-women-lighting-up-zanzibar

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Good News from Planet Earth is brought to you by Voiceover for the Planet, proud members of 1% for the Planet.

Produced by Ally Murphy and Anne Cloud

Sound Designed and Mixed by Brandon Perry at Sound Nectar Studios

If you'd like a member of Voiceover for the Planet to narrate your project, email [email protected]