In January 2025, five Loyola University students journeyed to Adjuntas, Puerto Rico, under the guidance of Dr. Susan Kelson and a collaboration involving nonprofits, a U.S. developer of solar panel installations, and a local company. Their objective was to install solar panels on a house that would give this local resident some clean and more reliable energy. Led entirely by the students-designer and leader-was inspired by Peter Graham’s summer 2024 work experience. It became an opportunity to help along the island with its transition to renewable energy and deepened their understanding of its societal impact.
A Student-Led Initiative
The student team, including Peter and Hannah Graham, Misgana Yoseph, Alexandra Artiga, and Adrian Lee, flew to Puerto Rico’s capital, San Juan, on January 7 en route to Adjuntas. This was a collaborative project with the non-profit organization Let’s Share the Sun Foundation (LSTS), U.S. solar developer Jordan Energy, and local solar company ISO. LSTS was founded by Bill and Beth Jordan, who have been instrumental in spearheading sustainability efforts and obtaining federal funding for 200 solar projects in Adjuntas.
The Installation of the Solar
Guided by ISO, the students installed approximately 80 percent, mounting brackets, wiring, and installing solar panels. The team of ISO handled the more technical aspects that require specialized training. Practical skills and an appreciation for the complexity of the systems were imparted to the students through the hands-on experience.
Life-Changing
Rosa, the beneficiary, has chronic respiratory disease and diabetes and depends on 24/7 oxygen support and refrigerated medication. Previously, she was being forced to seek emergency medical care due to the frequent power outages. Equipped with solar panels, Rosa is assured of a constant power supply and does not have to fear the visits to the hospital as a result of an electricity problem.
Reflection and Insights
Following the installation, students spent time with Rosa to learn about how electricity had become a game-changer in her life. They visited local community organizations and completed other solar installations to learn about the greater movement toward 100% solar energy in Adjuntas. The team reflected on experiences that ranged from the fulfillment that comes from giving back to society to the importance of sustainable energy solutions.
Dr. Kelson also hoped that the continuation of this project into 2026, from his estimation, will create both community development and student growth. In such a way, this experience empowered not only a family but also the students themselves to have more commitment to surmount global challenges through renewable energy.
