Habitat for Humanity Vietnam and Aramco Conclude “Project Sunshine” – Supporting Renewable Energy Access for Rural Communities
Aramco Project Sunshine was successfully concluded on 15 May and at the Closing Ceremony were Le Xuan Hai, Chairman of Union of Friendship Organizations of Dong Thap Province (first row, eighth from left); Nguyen Van Hiep, Vice Chairman of People’s Committee of Thap Muoi District (first row, third from right); Patsy Koh, Director of Public Affairs for Aramco Asia (first row, sixth from right); Maricelle Regino-Borja, National Director of Habitat for Humanity Vietnam (first row, sixth from right); beneficiary families and the local community.
Habitat for Humanity Vietnam (Habitat Vietnam), in collaboration with Aramco Asia Singapore (Aramco), officially concluded the “Aramco Project Sunshine” at a closing ceremony held in Thap Muoi District, Dong Thap Province, celebrating a year of impact on promoting renewable energy for marginalized families.
Launched in September 2023, the project aimed to address energy insecurity in a rural district prone to frequent power outages. Despite being connected to the national grid, low-income households in Thap Muoi often faced disruptions that limited their ability to cook, store food, and access essential utilities.
Through Project Sunshine (also known as “Let the sun shine”), 66 low-income families gained access to solar energy systems at the household level, including 40 families who received both home renovations and solar installations and 26 families whose homes were already improved.
“The impact of Project Sunshine extends far beyond simply providing electricity. It represents self-reliance, dignity, and opportunity for families who once relied on unstable power or traditional fuel sources,” shared Maricelle Regino-Borja, National Director of Habitat for Humanity Vietnam. “We are proud to partner with Aramco in a project that aligns with net-zero aspirations.”
A key component of the initiative was its Behavior Change Communication (BCC) strategy, which raised awareness and built local knowledge around solar energy adoption. Families were trained in using and maintaining solar systems, aiming to long-term viability. The project’s communication materials and documentation may serve as a model for future renewable energy initiatives.
“The project demonstrates Aramco’s aim of making a difference in people’s lives through reliable energy solutions and aligns with Aramco’s vision of safe, sustainable and reliable energy access for all,” said Fai K. Aldossary, Managing Director of Aramco Asia Singapore.
She added: “We are proud of the positive impact this initiative has had on these families, and our strong partnership with Habitat of Humanity proved instrumental in bringing this project to fruition.”
The closing ceremony featured testimonies from beneficiary families, local officials, and partners, highlighting how access to solar energy has improved their quality of life, including for women who now spend less time on household chores, allowing them to focus more on education and income-generating activities.
As Vietnam progresses towards its ambitious goal of sourcing 50% of its electricity from wind and solar energy by 2045, Aramco Project Sunshine demonstrates how cross-sector partnerships can support meaningful progress in achieving sustainable development goals in rural areas.