What is Electriciens sans frontières?
Electriciens sans frontières, or Electricians Without Borders, is an international solidarity NGO that’s been tackling inequalities in access to electricity and water since 1986. Born from the passion of electricity sector employees wanting to use their skills for good, this French NGO has grown into a global force. With around 1,300 volunteers and strong partnerships with local actors, they focus on making access to electricity a powerful lever for human and economic development. And here’s the kicker—they do it all while championing renewable energy.
Main Benefits and Key Figures
So, what makes their work stand out? Let’s break it down:
- Since 1986, fighting inequalities in electricity and water access worldwide.
- Supported by 1,300 dedicated volunteers.
- 89% of development projects rely on renewable energies.
- Received the UN Climate Innovation Award at COP25 in 2019 for resilient projects in Dominica.
- Won the Zayed Sustainability Prize for training programs in the Rohingya refugee camp, Bangladesh.
- Partnered with the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs since 2017 for humanitarian emergency management.
- First emergency intervention in 2004 after the tsunami in the Maldives.
Global Actions and Focus Areas
Electriciens sans frontières doesn’t just stop at electricity. Their actions span a wide range of critical sectors including water, health, education, training, economic development, food security, social life and security, and climate change mitigation. This holistic approach ensures that energy access is integrated into broader development goals, making a real difference on the ground.
Volunteering: The Heartbeat of the NGO
Volunteers are the lifeblood here. Whether in France or across the globe, these engaged individuals write the humanitarian and solidarity story of the association every day. Their commitment and expertise fuel projects that empower communities, build resilience, and foster sustainable development. It’s a collective effort that’s both inspiring and impactful.
Commitment to Renewable Energies
Nearly 9 out of 10 projects use renewable energy sources. Why? Because Electriciens sans frontières believes in tackling climate change head-on through mitigation and adaptation. Their projects don’t just provide energy—they do so in a way that respects the planet and supports long-term sustainability. It’s about creating solutions that last.
Project Impact and Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 4: Quality Education
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 1: No Poverty
Recent Highlights and Future Outlook
Electriciens sans frontières keeps the momentum going with exciting initiatives like the Solidarity Energy Week 2025, where partners across France come together to raise awareness. The response to Cyclone Chido in Mayotte showcased remarkable mobilization from energy syndicates. Plus, their Annual Report 2024 offers a comprehensive look at their ongoing efforts, while organizational strengthening seminars aim to boost resilience and effectiveness. The journey continues, with a clear focus on robust, sustainable impact.
