Sonnenglas® About Us
Unsere Story in Highlights
Our Vision
The Idea Behind Sonnenglas
In South Africa, power outages and a lack of access to the electricity grid are part of everyday life. Load shedding, or targeted power cuts, is a regular occurrence here, serving as a short-term solution to regulate electricity demand when supply falls short. These interruptions disrupt the daily lives of individuals and the operations of many small businesses, highlighting the need for reliable light sources. During these outages, many turn to dangerous alternatives like kerosene or paraffin lamps, which are not only harmful to the environment but also often cause fires. The solution: a solar-powered glass lantern harnessing the limitless power of the sun to provide clean and safe light. This is why Sonnenglas was founded in 2013. A smart light source that is also environmentally friendly.
Our Mission
Bringing Light to the World
From the outset, the vision of Sonnenglas was not just to create a product, but to offer a solution that enhances people's lives. Particularly in regions where traditional light sources often pose challenges, our solar light provides not just illumination but also a bit more freedom: students can continue studying in the evenings, businesses can keep operating after sunset, and families can feel safer once darkness falls. To ensure this access for everyone who needs it, Sonnenglas offers special pricing for the local community, making light affordable for all. The mission behind the solar-powered Sonnenglas products is clear: to bring light and hope precisely where they are needed most.
Our Business Model
Fair Trade with a Social Focus
Imagine holding a solar light in your hand that not only provides illumination but also brightens lives. Sonnenglas is more than a brand - it's a movement connecting innovation with social impact. Originally created from the need to provide communities with safe, solar-powered lighting, we employ sustainable solutions that protect the environment and empower communities. Every Sonnenglas product is handcrafted in Africa, creating Fair Trade certified jobs and new opportunities in the region, fostering social progress.
Trade Instead of Aid
Our motto "Trade instead of Aid" drives Sonnenglas. We have redefined how we interact with communities, focusing on empowerment through trade instead of traditional donations to boost the local economy. This collaboration creates valuable jobs and opens sustainable growth opportunities. This means not only do most employees come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds gaining stable employment, but local small businesses are also involved in the production process.
Social Entrepreneurship
Every purchase of a Sonnenglas product supports sustainable community development. Our commitment to social entrepreneurship is evident in our ongoing job creation and reinforcement of the local economy. We are proud members of the Social Entrepreneur Network Germany (SEND e.V.), a community dedicated to fostering positive change through innovative and responsible business practices. We believe that sustainable business can have a profound impact on people and the environment, contributing to a brighter future.
From South Africa to the World
Today, Sonnenglas is known worldwide, yet it hasn't forgotten its roots in social responsibility and environmental protection. What started as a local solution for South African communities has evolved into an international cult product. Sonnenglas now exports to several countries across the world and focuses its production on fair trade and sustainable materials. With the introduction of efficient solar modules, innovative features, and new products, the brand continues to grow. Thanks to the combination of sustainability, design, and functionality, Sonnenglas has firmly established itself, whether as an outdoor lamp or as a stylish home lighting solution. Sonnenglas demonstrates that a product developed out of necessity can find its place in modern households worldwide. Our goal is to bring light to the world and make a lasting impact on people's lives.
Our Partners
Local Partnerships in Africa
In Africa, we collaborate with a range of environmentally conscious and traditional companies that share our values. One such partnership is with Ngwenya Glass in Eswatini. Here, 100% recycled glass from collected bottles is skillfully processed by talented glassblowers. This craftsmanship results in our unique Light Carafes and Glass Figurines, combining masterful artistry with sustainability. We carefully select all our suppliers with the same attention, ensuring they are locally sourced and uphold our Fair Trade and sustainability standards. Another example is our partnership with Kent Flowers from the Western Cape, which enriches our solar lanterns with artistic dried flowers. Besides these, numerous other collaborations contribute to strengthening the local economy and promoting sustainable trade.
Artistic Collaborations in Johannesburg
Creative spirit and traditional craftsmanship are at the heart of every Sonnenglas product. Thanks to our collaborations with artists in Johannesburg, every solar light can become a handcrafted masterpiece. For many years, we’ve successfully partnered with Maxwell, a master of wire and bead art, who adds a special touch to our with his colorful bead handles and small bead figures. Our newest collaborator, Nicky, complements our collection with lovingly crocheted pieces and figures, adding a unique glow to our solar lanterns. These creative partnerships not only support artists in South Africa but also offer a modern stage for traditional crafts. By reinterpreting these art forms, we ensure that South African traditional craftsmanship is preserved and continues to thrive.
Partnerships in Germany
In Germany, we also work with a variety of partners committed to social integration. One such partnership is with Stiftung Mensch, which handles our shipping in the DACH region and creates valuable jobs for people with disabilities. Through this collaboration, we aim to demonstrate that social responsibility and successful business models can go hand in hand.
Through these diverse partnerships, Sonnenglas not only illuminates but also makes an impact - in the hearts of people and communities around the globe.
Our Projects and Initiatives
Light and Support in Africa
At Sonnenglas, it's about more than just monetary donations - it's about bringing actual light into the world. In South Africa, as part of the Madiba Challenge, we donated a total of 120 solar lanterns to young people in the Langa township in Cape Town, providing them with a safe light source for evening homework during frequent power outages. In Madagascar, we were able to support Santatra e.V.’s school project with 40 SOMO solar modules, helping families in remote areas without electricity or water. In Eritrea, 50 solar lanterns now illuminate the PICU (Pediatric Intensive Care Unit), providing children with warm lighting that is gentler than traditional hospital neon lights, yet bright enough for necessary paperwork.
Special Editions for a Good Cause
Sonnenglas leverages the power of community to make a real difference through selected editions. One such initiative is our Lilac Edition, where 2.50 € from each sale was donated to the "Timbuktu in the Valley" project. This children's charity is located on the same premises as our Sonnenglas Factory in Victoria Yards. Thanks to the proceeds, over 10,000 € was raised, bringing smiles to children's faces every day. Similarly, our Rainbow Animal Edition was remarkable. Together with the "Kleiner Prinz e.V." initiative, we were able to raise a total of 10,000 € for flood relief efforts in Ahrweiler through product sales. These actions demonstrate how, together with you, we can make a real impact.
Sonnenglas® Lilac Edition
Diverse Collaborations
Our commitment extends well beyond these examples. Whether through partnerships with companies like Polarstern for building solar plants in Madagascar or through in-kind donations to fire stations, scout groups, and youth centers - Sonnenglas stands for valuable, sustainable support. These partnerships highlight how Sonnenglas not only brings light but also hope and opportunities for a brighter future.