EDP brings sustainable public lighting to Barra de São Miguel, in Guarulhos
EDP, a company that operates in all segments of the electricity sector, is installing 30 solar-powered streetlights in the alleys of Barra de São Miguel, community in Guarulhos (SP). Nine are already operational, and the remaining 21 are scheduled to be installed by October. The initiative is carried out in partnership with the organization Litro de Luz.
Last Saturday (14th), a cultural event featuring an art workshop and community dialogue engaged local residents and included the participation of visual artist Ricardo Celio, known as Celinho. A Guarulhos native, Celinho shared his personal journey with the community’s youth and led a graffiti workshop to paint the newly installed streetlights.
The streetlights are made from simple materials such as PET bottles and PVC pipes, along with solar panels, batteries, and LEDs. Solar lighting in public spaces offers numerous benefits, including enhanced safety, increased potential for commerce and nighttime activities, and sustainability through the use of renewable energy. In addition to lighting the area, the initiative - supported by Gerando Falcões and Instituto Sonhar Alto - aims to empower residents by encouraging active participation as agents of change within their own community.
This initiative is part of the Comunidade In program, developed by EDP in communities within its concession areas to promote integrated development and improve local quality of life. In addition to the streetlight installation, the Amadeu Pereira Lima School, located in the community, is hosting Brincando com Pipas, a socio-educational project in partnership with Evoluir. The project raises awareness about the risks of kite-related accidents involving power lines and promotes safe play through engaging and educational activities.
“Comunidade In is a great example of how we contribute to sustainable local development, combining efforts to deliver lasting results for communities.
By involving residents in these initiatives, we are fostering real transformation”, said Dominic Schmal, ESG Director at EDP South America.
Comunidade In: Integrated Development and Lasting Impact for Communities
As part of its strategy to lead a just energy transition, EDP prioritizes contributing to the development of the regions where it operates through various initiatives. Through Comunidade In, communities within the company’s concession areas in Espírito Santo and São Paulo are selected to receive these actions.
During the selection process, a comprehensive community assessment is conducted, taking into account local data, characteristics, and needs to plan and implement initiatives. These may focus on education, professional training, income generation, dignified housing, access to culture and leisure, conscious consumption, quality energy, energy access, digital inclusion, and waste awareness.