"As an expatriate working in Laos for a German development organization during the late 1990s, Andy Schroeter observed that nearly half the population was off the electricity grid and that the cost for the kerosene needed to run lamps was one of the highest expenditures for a household. He realized that an answer could be the basis of a bright opportunity with the potential to make both money and social progress.

Building Change
Schroeter did not have funding from a venture capitalist, nor did he have a novel technology solution. Laos was recovering from 20 years of war, and the government wasn't exactly set up to foster entrepreneurship. But instead of seeking charitable contributions or support from a large non-governmental organization, Schroeter formed Sunlabob in 2000 with his own means. The mission of the firm was to operate as a profitable, full-service energy provider selling hardware and providing energy services for remote areas where the public electricity grid does not yet reach.

Simple Trade
At this point, you might be expecting a dramatic story of innovation—how Schroeter invented a robust and inexpensive fuel cell, wireless energy transmission, or perhaps cold fusion for the villagers of Laos. The reality is somewhat less glamorous but a lot more practical. Schroeter takes the most suitable alternative energy products available in the global marketplace and adapts and installs them in Laos. He is a reseller, an integrator, and a (very) local distributor. These are business ideas as common as the sunlight that powers most of what he delivers."