In June 2016, USI, along with Appropriate Technology students from Appalachian State University, installed a solar PV array in the Santa Ana community. This is the first alternating current (AC) system installed, with hopes that as the Nicaraguan government expands the reach of the grid infrastructure in coming years, this community will eventually be able to connect and disconnect as needed.
Alongside the supervision and guidance of a local solar installation company, Appalachian State students participated in the wiring and commissioning of the solar array to power LED lighting for night classes and cloudy school days, and a radio/CD player to be used for school lessons and community social gatherings.
