New Products: d.light Launches Ultra-Affordable Solar Lantern for Emerging Markets

d.light S1, the ultra-affordable solar study light for young people with big dreams in the developing world. Designed especially for families without electricity, the d.light S1 has a recommended retail price of under USD8, making it affordable for off-grid families with limited incomes. http://www.dlightdesign.com. (PRNewsFoto/d.light design)

Under USD $8 Product will Promote Educational Aspirations for Millions

PALO ALTO, Calif., May 18, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — d.light design today announced the launch of the d.light S1, the world’s most affordable quality solar lantern. With a recommended retail price of under USD8, the product combines d.light‘s high quality with extreme affordability, making it an excellent value for off-grid families. Designed as a bright, safe, and reliable study light, the d.light S1 is expected to support the aspirations of millions of young people in emerging markets.

d.light is on the leading edge of providing affordable, life-changing solar solutions for off-grid families around the world,” said d.light CEO Donn Tice. “The d.light S1 makes bright and clean solar lighting accessible for base-of-the-pyramid households who want a better life for themselves and a better future for their children.”

The d.light S1 provides four hours of bright light from one full day of solar charging. The adjustable handle allows the product to easily orient toward the sun during the day and to focus its light at night, making it the perfect solution for studying. The d.light S1 is extremely durable and able to withstand rugged weather conditions and high impact.

“The d.light S1 addresses a top priority of our customers: their children’s education,” said d.light Chief Customer Officer Sam Goldman. “We believe this product will empower young people in developing countries to pursue their dreams.”

Independent research and d.light field research demonstrate that access to bright solar light significantly improves educational outcomes for children. In Sudan, the World Bank found that pass rates doubled, from 57 percent to 97 percent, after students used solar lighting for one year.  In a d.light pilot in India, 100 percent of 275 students surveyed said they regularly studied with the d.light S1, and all of them experienced benefits including increased productivity, cleaner air inside the home, and reduced risk of fire.

The d.light S1 is now available for order worldwide. Distributors in India and Africa should contact the appropriate d.light field office; other distributors should contact d.light‘s International Sales team in Hong Kong.

d.light‘s solar lighting product line currently includes the d.light S250, a premium solar lantern and mobile charger and the d.light S10, an all-in-one solar lantern.

About d.light design

d.light‘s mission is to enable households without reliable electricity to attain the same quality of life as those with electricity. The company aims to improve the lives of 100 million individuals, beginning by replacing every kerosene lantern with clean, safe and bright light.  d.light is financed by leading social enterprise funds Omidyar Network, Acumen Fund, and Gray Matters Capital, along with prestigious venture capital firms Nexus Venture Partners, Draper Fisher Jurvetson, Garage Technology Ventures, the Mahindra Group. To learn more, visit www.dlightdesign.com.

SOURCE d.light design

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