The Founders of Holy Solar Ceylon: A Story of Vision and Compassion

The Genesis of a Vision

In the heart of Sri Lanka, amid lush landscapes and ancient temples, two visionary individuals from two different continents cross paths in the most unusual and turbulent circumstances that bond them forever. Driven by a shared idea, they collaborated to support Sri Lanka’s religious entities through sustainable energy. Rick Whitaker is a U.S citizen, a renowned development sector specialist whose education is from West Point and Harvard; and Ruchit Kandage, a dedicated Sri Lankan civil servant with experience in the private sector both in Sri Lanka and abroad and renowned financial specialist from the University of Chicago, would become the cofounders of Holy Solar Ceylon.

Ruchit was deeply troubled by Sri Lanka's dependence on imported fossil fuels and the economic and environmental degradation it caused. Rick was introduced to the financial struggles faced by religious institutions due to escalating electricity costs while he was working on a USAID project in Sri Lanka. These religious institutions, once able to rely on low subsidized tariffs, were now grappling with the burden of significantly higher bills following tariff revisions by the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB). Paying this expensive and higher bills reduced their ability to continue support of their local communities.

Rick and Ruchit’s paths converged when they started working together from June 2021 and become fast friends over the next few years. As they discussed the country's energy crisis, they realized that their combined expertise could create a powerful solution. The idea for Holy Solar Ceylon was born.

The Birth of Holy Solar

By December 2023, Holy Solar was officially launched, marking the beginning of a transformative journey. The initiative aimed to alleviate the financial strain on religious entities by installing rooftop solar panels, thereby reducing electricity costs, and promoting renewable energy, and increasing community outreach.

Their first demonstration was the revered Buddhist temples of the Malwatte Maha Vihara of Siyam Nikaya in Kandy. The plan was to install 27 kWp of rooftop solar systems on eight temples, significantly cutting down their electricity bills. With CEB’s cooperation, this initial phase included the complete setup: solar panels, inverters, cables, mounting systems, installation, monitoring, and administration.

Rick spearheaded the crowdfunding campaign, reaching out to his network of alumni at Harvard, and found the initial funding for this project. Both Ruchit and he emphasized not only the financial benefits for the temples but also the broader impact on the environment and society. By participating, donors could reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote renewable energy, and foster social solidarity.

A Growing Impact

The first phase's success fueled their ambition to expand. The second phase envisioned installing solar systems on 50 religious buildings across Sri Lanka, including Buddhist, Catholic,Protestant, Moslem, and Hindu institutions. This inclusive approach underlined their commitment to unity and sustainability across all communities.

Donors were incentivized with non-monetary rewards such as thank-you notes and media features. These tokens of appreciation were small gestures compared to the immense gratitude felt by the religious institutions benefiting from the project.

A Partnership Forged in Purpose

Rick and Ruchit’s partnership were one of complementary strengths. Ruchit brought technical expertise and a deep understanding of renewable energy, while Rick's extensive network and empathetic approach mobilized community support. Together, they navigated challenges, celebrated milestones, and inspired countless others to join their cause.

Their journey was not just about installing solar panels: it was about empowering communities, preserving the environment, and fostering a spirit of generosity and unity. Through Holy Solar, they aimed to create a sustainable and green future for Sri Lanka, where community-based religious entities could thrive without the burden of exorbitant electricity costs.

The Legacy of Holy Solar

As Holy Solar continues to grow, its impact extends beyond financial relief and environmental benefits. It serves as a beacon of hope and a testament to what can be achieved when visionaries unite for a common cause. Rick and Ruchit's story is one of compassion, innovation, and unwavering dedication to their homeland. Through Holy Solar Ceylon, they have illuminated the path to a brighter, more sustainable future for all of Sri Lanka.