The Trust Savings Credit Union (TSCU) has started to sell solar lanterns and small solar home systems in Ganta, Tappita, Saclepea and Karnplay. All members who have a savings account can pay the solar light in installments. Some of the seven different solar products were sold out on the first day after the sales started in April 2018.

Especially popular is the largest system that has 3 bulbs that can light different room, the smallest and cheapest bright lights, and a solar lantern that can also charge phones. Maryline Gbumblee, internal auditor and accountant of TSCU has bought one of the larger system for herself and is highly satisfied. The 5 Watt system cost her about 88 US Dollar. “It works fine, I enjoy the light in the house. Many people who visit me and see it want to also have such a system.” 

The TSCU provides financial services to its 2200 members, such as savings accounts, loans and mobile money. There are plans to also offer services for Ecobank, Western Union and Money Grant, and to become an intermediary between farmers and investors, or farmers and buyers. Beside the main office in Ganta, branches are established in Gbarnga, Foya, Tappita, Saclepea, Yao Lepola , Bluntuo and Karnplay, reaching people in the rural areas of Nimba, Bong and Lofa Counties.

The initiative to sell solar lamps, solar phone charger and small solar home systems was started by the head of TSCU, Thomas Demawu, some years ago.  GIZ/EnDev encouraged him and connected him with RREA and provided small solar home systems for the offices as pilot versions. After the TSCU members agreed, TSCU could get the products that were imported by RREA and comply with high quality standards of Lighting Global. So customers who buy these solar products also receive a warranty for two years so that they can enjoy the light without any added costs over a long period of time.

TSCU hopes for more partnership opportunities making solar lantern products as part of its marketing products, thereby providing awareness on the importance of protecting our ozone layer.