JuniorBuddy - Solar Lantern

Reduce up to 14 tonnes of CO₂ by replacing hazardous fuels with clean solar lighting!

KidWind has partnered with SolarBuddy to bring a unique solar education and service-learning experience into classrooms across the U.S. through the JuniorBuddy.

The SolarBuddy Classpack combines hands-on STEM learning with real-world impact. Students build solar lights in the classroom, then return them to SolarBuddy to be delivered to children living without safe light.

This creates two layers of value:

• In the classroom: students learn solar energy, sustainability, and global energy challenges through practical application
• Beyond the classroom: each light is used by a child, reducing reliance on hazardous fuels, improving health and education outcomes, and saving families money

Schools also receive impact reporting to share measurable outcomes with their community.

We have three different versions of this kit.

The TestPack –  Want to see what the JuniorBuddy is all about?  Get two to test, evaluate and construct.   One for you to keep and one for a student somewhere in the SolarBuddy network.  

The ClassPack – Working with a group of students, get the ClassPack with 11 lanterns.  One for you to keep and 10 for students across the globe. 

The SchoolPack –  Having an large training event?  The SchoolPack contains 50 lights for you to assemble and return. 

How it Works:

• Each kit includes JuniorBuddy lights
• Students assemble the lights while learning about solar energy and an equitable clean energy transition
• Completed lights are returned to KidWind for testing and distribution 1 light is kept by the educator as a future demo

Each kit includes a free return label, making it simple to send the lights back and ensure they reach communities in need.

Looking to teach more about solar?  Pair this experience with additional solar projects like the Solar Imagination Kit and Sunshine in a Jar Kit, offering different ways for students to explore solar energy in the classroom.