California-based nonprofit solar installer GRID Alternatives has acquired Power to the People, a U.S.-based nonprofit working in Nicaragua. GRID Alternatives says the deal, subject to regulatory approval, will allow the organization to bring its volunteer solar installation program to Latin America and beyond in the coming years.
‘Power to the People has built a strong program providing solar electricity to impoverished, off-grid rural communities in Nicaragua,’ says Erica Mackie, co-founder and CEO of GRID Alternatives. ‘This is an incredible opportunity to bring that work to scale using GRID Alternatives' international network of industry partners and extensive volunteer base.’
GRID Alternatives says its new international program will continue to build on the volunteer-tourism model used by Power to the People since 2008. The program will provide opportunities for individual and corporate volunteers to travel to Nicaragua and install solar alongside community members, while raising funds to support the projects.
‘Joining GRID Alternatives gives us a tremendous opportunity to continue and grow our work,’ says Power to the People founder Jenean Smith, who will continue to head the program as GRID Alternatives' director of international programs. ‘We are very pleased with GRID's focus on sustainable development, volunteer training and working with underserved communities, and feel these aspects align well with our vision.’
GRID Alternatives is currently signing up volunteers for trips in the summer and fall this year. For more information, click here.
