Want to go solar with Twende?

Learn a bit more about the types of projects we support and what our process looks like.

 

Twende Solar believes that a world for sustainable energy for all is achievable. As a nonprofit, we look for creative ways to say "yes" and to make projects happen at an affordable rate for our partners. To ensure sure your work or project is in line with our mission and values, please review the below examples of types of missions and development work we love to support. If our process and your project seem like a good fit, take the quiz linked at the bottom of this page to reach out and start a conversation.

 
Twende Partners With....png
 
 

PROJECT + PARTNER CRITERIA

Twende Solar (TS) seeks to partner with successful, mission-driven organizations focused on education, health, or community development. The partner organization is in need of a stable and affordable source of electricity to fulfill and expand upon their mission. After hosting discussions with the surrounding community and its leaders, the organization has realized the value of solar and is committed to pursuing a renewable energy system to increase its impact.

FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTION

Twende Solar requires each partner organization to contribute financially towards the cost of the system in an effort to foster a sense of ownership and desire to maintain the system long after it has been installed. Based on the organization’s current energy expenses, the financial contribution is calculated for a five-year payback. If the partner is unable to pay this portion up front, a payment plan can be developed to meet contribution minimum.

ADDITIONAL PARTNER RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Identify a local community contact to assist with logistics planning, shipping, etc.

  2. Assist Twende in creating marketing materials to share your story with project supporters.

  3. Assist in coordinating food and housing for volunteers during installation.

  4. Assist with the translation of solar educational materials and help facilitate a time/space for volunteers to lead educational programming post-installation.

  5. Develop a security plan to ensure the safety and maintenance of system equipment.

  6. Gather project outcome data to report to Twende Solar twice annually for 5 years following installation.

 

PROJECT outLINE

  1. Initial Contact

    1. Partner organization fills out preliminary Google form accessed via the “Get Started” button below to indicate interest in going solar with Twende. An introductory call is scheduled to discuss process and project goals.

    2. Partner organization fills out Twende’s Project Evaluation Form and provides any additional information pertinent to understanding your organization and request.

    3. Twende Solar (TS) prepares a preliminary project plan in collaboration with partner for review by TS Board of Directors. Upon Board review, an LOI agreement marks shared commitment to solar partnership.

  2. System Design

    1. PV system designed using Project Evaluation Form information

  3. Budget + Timeline Development

    1. Partnership/manufacturer partners identified

    2. Grant opportunities identified

    3. Partner organization financial contribution determined

  4. Board Approval

    1. Project details, budget, and timeline are presented to Twende Solar Board for approval

    2. Once approved, TS and partner organization sign Master Service Agreement and proceed with project execution

  5. Project Kick-Off + Development

    1. Project announcement

    2. Fundraising initiatives begin

    3. Solicit equipment donations + purchase remaining equipment

    4. Shipping logistics

    5. Volunteer acquisition

    6. Customs clearance

  6. Installation

    1. Volunteers install PV system

    2. Project Managers lead PV training with local technicians/operators

    3. Volunteers lead PV education with local community/students

  7. Post-Project

    1. Project debrief between TS + partner organization

    2. Project recap video + release event

    3. TS maintains connection with partner organization for ongoing system maintenance support, community updates and for partner organization to report program outcomes to TS twice annually