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As part of its strategy to improve the quality of life of rural communities in northern Chile, SQM Iodine Plant Nutrition and the Bajo Soga Working Group developed an innovative Solar Solutions Program in the town, located in the Huara Province, Tarapacá Region.

As a result, 15 families now have sustainable household electricity, marking an important milestone in improving basic living conditions for local inhabitants, who have historically struggled to access utilities.

The company’s initiative strives to positively impact the population and generate social value in neighboring communities, contributing to sustainable development and improving the quality of life of rural communities.

Alejandro Fernández, Head of Productive Development at SQM Iodine Plant Nutrition, explained the relevance of this project, noting that it stemmed from a commitment made with the Bajo Soga Working Group through the Open Innovation 2023-2024 program to provide a solution to a local need.

“We addressed the fundamental problem of lack of electricity in most of the homes in this town. After evaluating the best alternatives, we provided them with Solbox solar generators, a sustainable and environmentally friendly option that does not emit CO2. This solution uses solar power with a lithium battery and two solar panels to supply families with electricity, refrigeration and other essential services, marking a before and after in their daily lives,” he commented.

Through its commitment to innovation and technology, the company has connected with technology startups to address the community’s specific needs.

This approach has helped implement solutions for human development that are both innovative and appropriate for the local context.

According to Claudio Yampara, president of the Misky Uma Cooperative in Bajo Soga, the neighbors were pleased with the solution, important assistance that will change the community’s way of life.

“The working group’s efforts have been meaningful for farmers in Bajo Soga. The chosen solution has been very efficient, satisfying a need for people who previously had no electricity. And today they can connect refrigerators to keep food fresher. SQM’s contribution in this area is relevant for the community and good progress continues to be made via the working group,” he said.

The beneficiaries of this new technology live in a non-urbanized area used for farming. The working group selected them based on a survey to identify the families most needy of such technology to improve their quality of life.

“It’s a great help to our household. Before we relied on candles and now, thanks to this solution, we can use the refrigerator, the washing machine and have light to carry out daily activities. I am very grateful,” said Scarlet González, one of the beneficiaries.

COMMUNITY WORK

This contribution is in addition to others previously made by SQM Iodine Plant Nutrition to the local community, such as agricultural training courses, road improvements and donations of farm machinery to improve local agriculture.

This commitment by SQM Iodine Plant Nutrition aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) assumed in its corporate aspirations, helping achieve key milestones for local development in northern Chile.