Through the Breaking the Barriers programme, the EU and Christian Aid aim to boost the income of women living in rural areas by helping them to find a job in the sustainable energy sector. Through Christian Aid’s local partner, Organismo Cristiano de Desarrollo Integral de Honduras, Marlen was one of 120 women who received training on how to install solar panels.
Through the programme, Marlen was able to access a low-interest loan to kickstart her own sustainable energy business, Belén Solar. The loan helped her to buy solar panels and installation equipment as well as to refurbish a space for her business.
The business, which also employs two other women, has helped Marlen face the challenges of climate change whilst also earning a better living. To date, Belén Solar has installed nearly 40 solar energy systems.
Solar energy represents the solution to multiple issues faced by Marlen’s community. It is cheaper, it means less deforestation as fewer trees are chopped down to light people’s homes and also keeps the air cleaner, reducing the risk of breathing problems from inhaling smoke.
