Sustainability

Technical Design

User-friendly design optimized by more than 10 years of field experience
Proper sizing of solar panel and battery capacity for maximum lifespan
Highest quality parts for reliability and durability
Prevention of user abuse as devices powered by the Solar Suitcase use Direct Current (DC)
Safety and longevity through protection of system wiring and electronics contained within the Solar Suitcase

Collaboration with government and private partners to develop and implement country-specific sustainability plans
In-country capacity building of installers, health workers, and private sector and government technicians
In-country inventory of spare parts to fulfill immediate maintenance needs
Integration of Solar Suitcases into routine government maintenance of other health facility equipment
Feedback mechanisms include contact information provided on each Solar Suitcase that health staff can use if there is a problem and an online Incident Report for local technicians to report a problem to We Care Solar

Donor funding for sustainability is included in funding proposals
Free remote technical assistance is provided indefinitely in response to Solar Suitcase issues or questions
Two-year warranty for all Solar Suitcase batteries and key components
Partnerships with governments who agree to provide in-kind support for routine performance checks and to cover the cost of main battery replacement after five years
Private partnerships to supplement and strengthen government-led sustainability efforts

For more information about our approach to sustainability, download our handout.