Discover how a solar-powered water pump in Guatemala, supported by The United Church of Canada and CIEDEG, is transforming access to clean water and renewable energy.
For International Development Week 2025 (February 2–8) The United Church of Canada highlights global partners who are contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals.
Empowering Communities Through Partnership
In the new community called “15th of February”, Champerico, Guatemala, a new solar-powered water pump is transforming access to clean water. This is the work of CIEDEG, the Guatemalan Conference of Protestant Churches—which aims to strengthen Indigenous leadership, food security, and community development by enhancing the capacity of local churches and social organizations.
The community of 15th of February struggles with impoverishment, food insecurity, access to water, and other basic services. Even though they are located close to the Pacific Coast of Guatemala, they receive little rain—and the land they were granted for their community was depleted by prior use by agro-industry.
CIEDEG is also providing leaders of 15th of February training and technical assistance to identify viable economic activities to supplement family incomes. Workshops and visits to nearby communities and local markets with community leaders from 15th of February have identified crops such as cashews and limes as viable options.
By working hand-in-hand with local leaders, this project embodies CIEDEG’s mission to build sustainable, secure communities while addressing immediate needs.
Clean Water and Renewable Energy
The newly installed solar-powered water pump provides a solution to the challenges of clean water access and energy reliability in the rural community of Champerico. Using renewable solar energy, the system ensures safe, consistent water distribution in a community where there is no access to electricity and reducing environmental impact. People from the community also contributed their own money and work to make the solar panel well possible.
This project directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation: Providing safe and accessible drinking water to the community.
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy: Utilizing renewable energy to power essential infrastructure.
- SDG 13: Climate Action: Reducing greenhouse gas emissions through solar technology.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities: Enhancing the resilience and quality of life for local residents.
More than a technological advancement, this project represents a community-driven effort to create a sustainable and just future, supported by CIEDEG’s commitment to local empowerment.
A Shared Vision for the Future
As The United Church of Canada celebrates its Centennial, this project is a testament to the power of enduring global partnerships. This water pump and efforts to increase family livelihoods are not isolated achievements; they are steps in a larger journey toward a world where access to clean water, renewable energy, and sustainable development is a reality for all. It highlights the church’s commitment to standing alongside communities as they lead work for the transformation of their own communities.
What Can You Do to Contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals?
- Advocate for change to climate policies with the Canadian government and other decision-makers.
- Read more about the church’s climate change efforts.
- Give to Mission and Service to help support Canadian and global partners working towards meeting the Sustainable Development Goals.
- Follow United Action for Justice on Facebook, Twitter/X, and Instagram, as well as United Church news and the Round the Table blog for more information on how your community of faith can learn more, participate, and #GoForTheGoals!
- Share A Commitment to Creation Care, a prayer calling us to take action for a sustainable future.