Little Sun: Light and Hope Where They Don’t Come

In a world that is increasingly powered by electricity, it is easy to take for granted the simple act of flipping a switch to light a room. But for 1.2 billion people living in off-grid areas without access to electricity, this basic necessity remains a distant dream. This is where Little Sun, an extraordinary social enterprise that has set out to change this reality, comes in. Founded by artist Olafur Eliasson and engineer Frederik Ottesen in 2012, Little Sun is more than just a portable solar lamp; it is a beacon of hope, an ingenious work of art, and a symbol of empowerment for millions of people around the world.

The Birth of Little Sun

Little Sun emerged from a desire to provide clean, affordable light to those living in the darkest parts of the world. With a mission to harness the power of the sun for the common good, Eliasson and Ottesen created a solar-powered LED lamp that is both practical and beautiful. This lamp is designed to serve the 1.2 billion people in the world who are without access to electricity, offering them a way to live independently outside the electrical system.

Design and art with a purpose

What sets Little Sun apart is its thoughtful design, developed in close collaboration with users in Ethiopia. The lamp’s unique aesthetic draws inspiration from the Ethiopian meskel flower, a symbol of positivity and beauty in the nation. This design not only makes the lamp visually striking, but also resonates with the communities it serves.

The Power of Clean Energy

Little Sun’s impact extends far beyond providing light. Solar energy is a game-changer for the communities it reaches. It enables children to study at night, farmers to irrigate fields and process crops to increase yields, doctors to treat patients and administer life-saving vaccines in remote areas, mothers to give birth safely at night, and entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses.

A benefit to millions of people

Little Sun’s impact is undeniable. With its solar solutions, this social enterprise has touched the lives of 4.6 million individuals, providing 185 million hours of additional study time for children in school after dark. Beyond the numbers, it has saved families off the power grid an extraordinary $194 million. These figures not only demonstrate Little Sun’s tangible benefits, but also highlight its commitment to making a difference.

Little Sun, sustainability within

One of the most striking aspects of Little Sun is its sustainability. Its batteries last an impressive five years, even with daily use, and can be easily and conveniently replaced. This commitment to sustainability is a testament to Little Sun’s long-term vision for a brighter, cleaner world.

In a world facing environmental challenges and energy inequality, Little Sun stands as a shining example of innovation and compassion. It is a symbol of what can be accomplished when art and engineering come together to address pressing global issues. In addition to providing light, Little Sun brings hope and empowerment to those living off the grid. It demonstrate that even the smallest sun can illuminate the darkest corners of our world. As we move forward, let us remember the power of the sun and the impact of Little Sun. A beacon of light and inspiration for us all.