Naitiri school in KenyaA new solar system sits on the roof at the Naitiri Friends School.Photo: Solar AidWe all know that energy conservation is good. And it is clear that solar can be a life saver in developing countries, as well as a great catalyst for improved school performance. But what if turning off the lights in your home or office could help people in Africa turn theirs on? An innovative new program is aiming to do just that — turning the energy and money saved from conservation efforts into funding for renewable energy in the developing world.

Developed as a partnership between UK communications agency Wieden Kennedy London, and solar development charity Solar Aid, the Off-On program encourages employees to save energy, and it funnels the resulting savings into funding for solar installations in Africa.

Reader support helps sustain our work. Donate today to keep our climate news free. All donations DOUBLED!

Get the full story from our friends at Treehugger.

Grist thanks its sponsors. Become one.