The Challenge: Decades of Diesel Dependency
Since 1969, WISH has operated on the island of La Gonâve, a region that has never had a reliable electric grid. For over 50 years, WISH relied on diesel generators to power its ministries, an ice plant, a hospital, nursing school, and missionary residences. These generators were loud, dirty, and increasingly expensive.
By the mid-2010s, fuel prices became more volatile, and with the elimination of governmental subsides even spiked to $15 USD per gallon. Consequently, WISH’s annual fuel costs climbed to over $90,000—an unsustainable burden for a donation-funded ministry.
The Solution: A Vision for Solar
In 2016, following a feasibility study with engineering students from Ohio Northern University, the WISH Board committed to transitioning to clean, quiet solar power. Fundraising for construction and equipment costs began immediately.
To ensure long-term sustainability, WISH chose LiFePo4 (lithium-ion) batteries over traditional lead-acid options. While more capital-intensive upfront, this choice secured more than a 20-year lifespan, improved safety, and added significant long-term savings.
Implementation and Completion
Despite the challenges of COVID-19 and political instability in Haiti, the project progressed in phases:
- Mid 2018: System design, equipment selection, and construction began.
- September 2022: The initial phase went live with 54 kW of solar panels and 115 kWh of battery storage.
- February 2024: Capacity increased with an additional 18 kW of solar and 115 kWh of battery storage.
- January 2026: The last phase of the system was completed with the addition of another 115 kWh of battery storage.
The completed system now consists of 72 kW of solar panels and 345 kWh of battery storage, supported by backup diesel generation. This setup provides 24/7 power, enabling WISH to expand its ministry and provide a future of hope for the residents of Anse-à-Galets on the island of La Gonâve.
Our Partners
This journey was made possible by the unwavering support of:
- Photon Electric LLC: Specifically, Henry Miller, for his expertise and financial support.
- Ohio Northern University: For the initial feasibility study and the 2013 student research team.
- Give Power: For their generous donation of a significant portion of the solar panels.