In this episode of The OpenSolar Podcast, we’re joined by Moira Hanes, co-founder of Empowered by Light, to explore how clean, distributed energy is transforming underserved communities around the world.

With over 100 solar and storage systems deployed across 10 countries, Empowered by Light is creating lasting impact, from rural schools in Zambia to Indigenous communities in the Amazon.

We discuss:

• How distributed solar solutions are scaling faster than traditional infrastructure

• Why locally led installations are key to long-term energy resilience

• What energy access means for education, women’s empowerment, and community pride

• The power of partnerships to unlock meaningful climate and social outcomes

• Lessons from building microgrids in some of the world’s most remote and vulnerable regions

Whether you're a solar pro, clean energy funder, or someone passionate about climate equity, this episode sheds light on the real-world potential of solar to drive change where it's needed most.

Support Empowered by Light → https://empoweredbylight.org