OUR MISSON
Solar Responders is a non-profit organization maximizing first responders’ capacity to save lives with renewable energy.
Solar Responders was formed following the devastation Hurricane Maria inflicted on Puerto Rico in 2017.
The storm knocked out the entire electrical grid resulting in the longest blackout in U.S. history, leaving three and a half million Americans without electricity.
Firefighters across the island were left in the dark.
First responders were forced to rely on diesel generators for backup power. As fuel supplies ran short and mechanical parts failed - first responders became disconnected, unable to receive urgent calls for help. Many stations were operating without electricity for over six months.
Solar power changes everything.
Fueled by the sun.
By harnessing the power of the Caribbean sun, first responders can focus on saving lives rather than keeping the generators running. Free, abundant, and reliable, sunshine is more dependable, efficient, and economical than imported diesel.
On-demand power.
Our solar installations are designed to work 24/7, when the sun’s not out, and when the power grid fails. During a disaster, the system kicks in immediately to provide continuous energy to power the station’s critical loads and charge communication devices.
Built for resiliency.
Our solar installations are fixed to the station’s structure, able to withstand hurricane wind speeds, and are not afflicted by the mechanical failures that plague outdated generators.
Enables communication.
Communication is vital when disaster strikes. Renewable backup systems guarantee first responders can receive emergency calls, charge radios, and connect with other stations to coordinate aid to help save lives.
Self-Reliance.
Whether it’s plugging in medical devices, refrigerating medication, charging cell phones, or simply providing a safe place to sleep, renewable backup systems transform first responder stations into community safe havens after disaster strikes.
Saves lives and the planet.
As our climate changes, natural disasters are increasing in frequency and intensity. Solar energy is clean, renewable, and reduces the carbon footprint of first responder stations, significantly lowering or eliminating energy bills.
“We live on an island. The sun is free. Let’s take advantage of it. With solar power we will never lose communication.”
— Maribel Santiago, Firefighter, Caguas, P.R.