d.light Launches Ultra-Affordable Solar Lantern for Emerging Markets

By D.light Design, PRNE
Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Under USD8 Product will Promote Educational Aspirations for Millions

PALO ALTO, California, May 18, 2011 - d.light design today announced the launch of the d.light S1, the world's
most affordable quality solar lantern. With a recommended retail price of
under USD8, the product combines d.light's high quality with extreme
affordability, making it an excellent value for off-grid families. Designed
as a bright, safe, and reliable study light, the d.light S1 is expected to
support the aspirations of millions of young people in emerging markets.

    (Photo: photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110518/SF04311-a)
    (Logo: photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110518/SF04311LOGO-b)

"d.light is on the leading edge of providing affordable, life-changing
solar solutions for off-grid families around the world," said d.light CEO
Donn Tice. "The d.light S1 makes bright and clean solar lighting accessible
for base-of-the-pyramid households who want a better life for themselves and
a better future for their children."

The d.light S1 provides four hours of bright light from one full day of
solar charging. The adjustable handle allows the product to easily orient
toward the sun during the day and to focus its light at night, making it the
perfect solution for studying. The d.light S1 is extremely durable and able
to withstand rugged weather conditions and high impact.

"The d.light S1 addresses a top priority of our customers: their
children's education," said d.light Chief Customer Officer Sam Goldman. "We
believe this product will empower young people in developing countries to
pursue their dreams."

Independent research and d.light field research demonstrate that access
to bright solar light significantly improves educational outcomes for
children. In Sudan, the World Bank found that pass rates doubled, from 57
percent to 97 percent, after students used solar lighting for one year. In a
d.light pilot in India, 100 percent of 275 students surveyed said they
regularly studied with the d.light S1, and all of them experienced benefits
including increased productivity, cleaner air inside the home, and reduced
risk of fire.

The d.light S1 is now available for order worldwide. Distributors in
India and Africa should contact the appropriate d.light field office; other
distributors should contact d.light's International Sales team in Hong Kong.

d.light's solar lighting product line currently includes the d.light
S250, a premium solar lantern and mobile charger and the d.light S10, an
all-in-one solar lantern.

About d.light design

d.light's mission is to enable households without reliable electricity to
attain the same quality of life as those with electricity. The company aims
to improve the lives of 100 million individuals, beginning by replacing every
kerosene lantern with clean, safe and bright light. d.light is financed by
leading social enterprise funds Omidyar Network, Acumen Fund, and Gray
Matters Capital, along with prestigious venture capital firms Nexus Venture
Partners, Draper Fisher Jurvetson, Garage Technology Ventures, the Mahindra
Group. To learn more, visit www.dlightdesign.com.

Dorcas Cheng-Tozun of d.light design (Hong Kong), +852-5300-4650, dorcas at dlightdesign.com

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