Impact Spotlight

4.4 kW solar installation and 6.3 kW system updates, expanding solar access for a remote Kaq'chikel Maya community

Hybrid battery backup system to mitigate village-wide blackouts

Utility savings to finance workforce development programs for future solar installers

About

Nestled on the slopes of Lake Atitlán, the seven villages of Santa Cruz La Laguna are accessible only by boat or rudimentary roads. Consequently, the 9,000 Kaq'chikel Maya who reside there have been largely isolated from the educational and economic opportunities found in larger towns. The community faces high unemployment, low wages, and gender disparities. Drop-out rates are especially high for young women and girls due to inadequate facilities, underqualified teachers, and socioeconomic pressure.

In response to these disparities, Santa Cruz community leaders came together and formed the Amigos de Santa Cruz Foundation, an organization aimed at improving the lives of the Indigenous people of Santa Cruz and surrounding villages through education and sustainable economic empowerment. Since their inception, Amigos has provided vocational training for over 3,000 people. Their women’s empowerment program trains 50+ local women annually which has led to the establishment of 13 women-owned businesses. Amigos also provides scholarships for local youth and has even piloted a solar installation vocational center, leading to 85% of graduates finding jobs in the solar industry. Ultimately, Amigos' investment in education combined with a motivated young population has catalyzed generational change for the entire region.

“By embracing solar energy, we demonstrate leadership and commitment to the environment and inspire others. We are committed to reducing our carbon footprint and creating a healthier community. The future of our lake, Lake Atitlán, requires it.”

— Estela Simaj, Director of Economic Programs (and community member) Amigos de Santa Cruz

HF Partnership

Together, Amigos de Santa Cruz and the Honnold Foundation are repairing existing solar energy infrastructure in Santa Cruz, and installing new battery-backed systems that will strengthen the communities’ access to energy while financing job training programs for community members. When completed, the project will expand the on-grid solar capacity, install a hybrid battery backup system to mitigate blackouts, and overhaul existing solar systems. The goal isn’t just to lower the community’s carbon footprint; the resulting solar installation and workforce development programs will catalyze additional green infrastructure and economic opportunity in Santa Cruz for years to come.