SDG Awards 2024

Finalist Profile

Welcome to the SDG Awards, a distinguished recognition program honoring the remarkable contributions of individuals, organizations, and initiatives in championing the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Finalist Profile

Soliterm Group

About Company

SDG Awards 2024

Category - SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy

Emissions Reduction: Cut carbon emissions by replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy.

➜ Emissions Reduction: Cut carbon emissions by replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy.

➜ Renewable Solutions: Provide sustainable heating, cooling, electricity, and desalination options.

➜ Sustainable Development: Aids international clients in securing subsidies and grants to promote renewable adoption.

1. What is the local impact your organization has achieved regarding your selected SDG? (No Word Limit)

Soliterm has made significant local impacts in promoting SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy by deploying concentrated solar power (CSP) systems in underserved and remote communities. Our installations have provided reliable, renewable energy to areas previously reliant on fossil fuels, reducing local pollution and improving air quality. Through our partnerships with local governments and organizations, we have created jobs and developed skills within the community, empowering local populations and fostering economic growth. Educational programs have been initiated to raise awareness about the benefits of solar energy and sustainability, fostering a culture of renewable energy adoption. The local adoption of our CSP technology has decreased reliance on non-renewable energy sources, contributing to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and fostering sustainable development in the regions we operate.

2. What is the global impact your organization has achieved regarding your selected SDG? (No Word Limit)

Globally, Soliterm’s initiatives have contributed to the reduction of carbon emissions and advancement of renewable energy technologies, aligning with SDG 7 and SDG 13: Climate Action. Our CSP technology has been deployed in multiple countries, demonstrating its scalability and adaptability to different climatic and geographical conditions. By replacing conventional energy sources with solar power, we have reduced global greenhouse gas emissions and contributed to international efforts to combat climate change. Soliterm has also collaborated with international bodies, research institutions, and governments to promote policy frameworks that encourage investment in renewable energy. Our work has inspired other organizations to pursue similar sustainable energy solutions, amplifying our impact on a global scale.

3. What is the scalability of your innovation and how do you plan to achieve it? (No Word Limit)

Soliterm’s CSP technology is highly scalable due to its modular design, cost-effectiveness, and adaptability to various climates and terrains. We plan to achieve scalability by forming strategic partnerships with governments, NGOs, and private sectors to co-finance projects and develop supportive policy environments. By leveraging technological advancements and economies of scale, we aim to reduce the cost of CSP installations, making solar energy more accessible globally. We also plan to expand our footprint through training programs that build local capacities to maintain and operate CSP systems, ensuring sustainability and fostering further adoption. Our focus on innovation and continuous improvement of our technology will enhance efficiency and performance, allowing us to expand our operations into new markets and geographies.

4. What is your organization’s unique strategy for using technology to achieve your selected SDG? (150 Words Limit)

Soliterm’s unique strategy revolves around the integration of advanced concentrated solar power (CSP) technology with local grid systems and industrial applications. By utilizing cutting-edge solar concentrators and high-efficiency thermal storage systems, we ensure uninterrupted power supply even during non-sunny periods. Our technology is designed for scalability, allowing it to serve both small communities and large industrial complexes. We employ digital monitoring systems for predictive maintenance, optimizing performance and reducing operational costs. Our approach not only provides clean energy but also supports industrial processes like desalination and district heating, enhancing the overall utility of our technology. By fostering partnerships with local stakeholders and leveraging technological innovation, we are effectively driving the transition to sustainable energy in alignment with SDG 7.

5. What challenges did you encounter while working for your selected SDG, and how did you address them? (150 Words Limit)

One of the key challenges Soliterm faced was the initial high cost of CSP technology, which limited its adoption. To address this, we focused on reducing costs through technological innovation and increasing efficiency. We also established public-private partnerships to co-finance projects, making them more affordable for local communities. Another challenge was the resistance to change in areas heavily reliant on fossil fuels. To overcome this, we implemented comprehensive community engagement programs to educate stakeholders about the benefits of solar energy, fostering a positive attitude toward renewable energy. Additionally, technical challenges related to maintaining CSP systems in remote areas were mitigated by training local technicians and establishing local supply chains for spare parts.

6. How did you engage local communities and stakeholders in your work, and what was their feedback? (150 Words Limit)

Soliterm actively engaged local communities and stakeholders through workshops, training programs, and awareness campaigns. We collaborated with local governments, NGOs like GIZ, to ensure that our projects aligned with their needs and aspirations. By involving local technicians in the installation and maintenance processes, we created employment opportunities and fostered a sense of ownership among the communities. Feedback from stakeholders has been overwhelmingly positive, with many appreciating the reduction in energy costs, improved air quality, and job creation. Community members have expressed satisfaction with the reliable energy supply, which has enhanced their quality of life and economic prospects. The involvement of local stakeholders in decision-making processes has been crucial to our success, fostering trust and ensuring long-term sustainability.

7. Which organizational skills and resources did you use to deliver goods/services without harming the environment or society? (150 Words Limit)

Soliterm employs a holistic approach to sustainability, incorporating environmental, social, and economic considerations into our operations. Our organizational skills include robust project management, technological innovation, and stakeholder engagement. We use life cycle assessments to minimize the environmental impact of our CSP installations, from manufacturing to decommissioning. Our supply chains prioritize eco-friendly materials and local sourcing to reduce carbon footprints. We also implement rigorous safety and environmental standards to ensure our operations do not harm the environment or society. Socially, we focus on community development and capacity building, providing training and employment opportunities that empower local populations. By fostering a culture of sustainability within our organization and throughout our supply chains, we ensure that our projects contribute positively to both the environment and society.

8. In your view what roles do businesses, governments, and civil society should play in achieving the SDGs, and how can they collaborate effectively? (150 Words Limit)

Businesses, governments, and civil society each play crucial roles in achieving the SDGs. Businesses drive innovation, create jobs, and implement sustainable practices. Governments provide regulatory frameworks, incentives, and funding for sustainable projects. Civil society advocates for sustainable development, raises awareness, and holds stakeholders accountable. Effective collaboration can be achieved through public-private partnerships, where businesses leverage their expertise and resources, governments provide supportive policies and funding, and civil society ensures transparency and community engagement. Multi-stakeholder forums and platforms can facilitate dialogue, share best practices, and foster innovative solutions. Aligning goals and fostering mutual trust are essential for successful collaborations that drive meaningful progress toward the SDGs.

9. What advice do you have for individuals or organizations aiming to create positive change and support the SDGs? (150 Words Limit)

For those aiming to create positive change and support the SDGs, my advice is to start with a clear vision and actionable goals. Focus on creating scalable and sustainable solutions that address specific local needs while considering global implications. Collaboration is key—partner with like-minded organizations, government bodies, and community stakeholders to amplify your impact. Leverage technology and innovation to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. Prioritize transparency and accountability in all operations to build trust and credibility. Continuously monitor and evaluate your progress, adapting your strategies as needed to overcome challenges and maximize impact. Most importantly, remain committed and passionate about your mission, as meaningful change requires persistence and dedication.

10. How would winning this SDG Award help you enhance your impact and expand your project? (150 Words Limit)

Winning the SDG Award would significantly enhance Soliterm's impact by providing greater visibility and credibility to our work. The recognition would attract new partnerships and funding opportunities, enabling us to scale up our projects and reach more communities in need of clean and affordable energy. It would also help us advocate more effectively for supportive policies and regulations that promote renewable energy adoption. The award would boost our team’s morale and reinforce our commitment to driving sustainable development. Additionally, the increased visibility could inspire other organizations to pursue similar initiatives, amplifying our collective impact on achieving SDG 7 and contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.

11. What are your future objectives regarding your selected SDG? (150 Words Limit)

Soliterm’s future objectives include expanding our CSP technology to new regions, particularly in developing countries with limited access to clean energy. We aim to enhance the efficiency of our technology through continuous research and development, reducing costs, and increasing scalability. Our goal is to foster local capacity-building programs, training more technicians and engineers to operate and maintain our systems, ensuring sustainability and local ownership. We also plan to deepen our engagement with policy-makers to advocate for renewable energy-friendly regulations and incentives. Additionally, we are exploring new applications of CSP technology in areas like desalination and industrial heating to broaden our impact and contribute to the overall sustainable development agenda.