Johannesburg - Royal Philips, in partnership with the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, unveiled the first of two new Community Light Centres for South Africa this week.
His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco attended the official opening on invitation by Philips Lighting Southern Africa to follow-up on his foundation’s support of the Philips Community Light Centre.
This visit comes as part of his ongoing commitment to promoting renewable energy as a key element in catalysing a transition to a low-carbon economy.
Such a transition is vital to mitigating climate change and its adverse effects. Limiting the effects of climate and promoting renewable energies are important objectives of his foundation.
Speaking at the opening ceremony at Actonville Primary, Reggie Nxumalo, general manager of Philips Lighting Southern Africa, said darkness holds countries back socially and economically.
"A quality solar-powered solution applied in the right way can have a tremendously positive effect at a community level, as demonstrated here today. This project represents a concrete action responding to a global challenge of extending the day and enabling early evening community activities, education and sports,” he said.
Bernard Fautrier, CEO and vice-president of the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, highlighted that energy is a central issue in all societies due to its impact on climate change, the economy and development.
Philips and the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation signed a memorandum of understanding to support the project of Community Light Centre donations in South Africa. Philips would have installed one hundred community light centres across Africa by the end of 2015.
The aim is to enable social and economic development for communities which lack electricity.