Testimonial
"Philips began its partnership with LUTW in 2006, at the inception of Philips' New Sustainable Business Initiatives projects aimed at reaching consumers at the Base of the Pyramid. Since that time, our partnership has grown to include the implementation of pilot projects whereby LUTW tests Philips solar lighting systems and provides insights learned from those projects about the lighting needs of those underserved consumers as well as recommendation on how to improve our renewable energy solutions. LUTW is a small professional organization we can rely upon with steady access to the Base of the Pyramid."
~ Corinne Jeanmaire, Offgrid Lighting Global Program Manager
Sustainability & Government Affairs - Philips Lighting
Research & Development
We work with leading lighting manufacturers to develop and design products appropriate for developing countries that are primarily off the electrical grid. Our extensive field experience and access to prime testing locations (through our ongoing projects) offers manufacturers expertise on the needs and accessibility of potential markets, as well as the opportunity for low-cost field trials of new and existing products. These collaborative efforts serve our beneficiaries by improving the quality and reducing the cost of the products while improving consumer awareness and the creation of distribution networks. Improving the market for off-grid products directly contributes to improving access for those in need.
LUTW was one of the first organisations who saw the enormous impact white LED’s (WLED) could have on the developing world energy market. As early as 1997, we began designing innovative WLED products and integrating them into solar home systems. Through key partnerships with research groups and manufacturers, we maintain an evolving design criterion for rural renewable energy lighting systems, however, system components are only a single piece of the greater scheme. Client assessments, system sizing, installation, training, and follow-up studies require field experience and established projects.
How do we do this?
Product testing and evaluation
We partner with manufacturers of solar lighting equipment to pilot prototypes and provide feedback from end users in the developing world. We manage product distribution, client education, before and after surveys to provide manufacturers with an in-depth evaluation of product performance.
Renewable energy design and monitoring
Monitoring the long-term performance of renewable energy systems in remote, undeveloped areas is no easy task. LUTW has worked in over 51 countries and installed more than 25,000 lights - our experience is well-founded and diverse. We are developing a knowledge base of lessons learned and best practices for rural electrification projects and we actively seek the expertise of and collaborations with the NGO, public, private and academic communities.
