Mayan Power and Light

In March, Mayan Power and Light embarked on an exciting new project, collaborating with a group of traditional midwives in remote areas near Comalapa, Guatemala. These dedicated midwives, known locally as the Civil Association of Traditional Midwives of Chimaltenango (ACOTCHI), have been our valued partners in various small-scale initiatives since 2009. Initially, we developed an enhanced stethoscope that could aid in identifying certain heart defects in newborn babies. Unfortunately, the stethoscope project was put on hold due to skepticism from local officials regarding Americans introducing new technologies to Guatemalan infants.

Nevertheless, we have maintained regular contact with the midwives over the years, and this year they approached us to explore how we could assist them in bringing light and better health to the families they serve. This aligns perfectly with our MPL program, an initiative aimed at providing solar power and water filters to families who have never had access to electricity during a pivotal time in their lives—a true inflection point, when families have babies. These families not only welcome the arrival of newborns but also grapple with the challenges of living without essential amenities. By offering solar power and water filters, we make a significant, life-changing difference for generations to come.

The introduction of solar power eliminates the need for costly candles and kerosene, improving the families' quality of life while also allowing them to save money that was previously spent on temporary lighting solutions. Additionally, each family benefiting from solar power saves approximately one ton of Carbon Dioxide Equivalent (CO2e) per year, contributing to a greener and healthier planet for future generations.

The midwives expressed their desire to learn about electricity, circuits, and solar power so they can assist the families they serve who lack access to electricity in obtaining solar power for their homes. Concurrently, we will be assisting with water filters as 100% of the homes the midwives serve lack clean, potable water.

Attached is a brief video showcasing our new solar lights. Over the years, we have carefully analyzed and examined numerous models, and these lights stand out as the most exceptional bright and long lasting ones we have ever come across. In fact, I have a couple of them at my house for situations when the power goes out, which occurs with alarming frequency.

We will be installing some of our older design lights next week, while the new lights are en-route and scheduled to arrive before my return in the fall.

If you are interested in lending a hand, we will be hosting volunteers to install solar lights in families' homes and also to implement solar power at a remote school starting January 2, 2024. Some volunteers will be arriving on December 28th to begin early preparations. Regardless, if you are inclined to volunteer with us, please let me know.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support. Together, we can continue making a positive impact on the lives of these deserving families.