Bahamians are picking up the pieces in the wake of devastating Hurricane Dorian. Now, Mainers are pitching in to help.
ReVision Energy calls it a Solar Outreach System, and it’s specially designed for disaster relief.
The South Portland company sent three of the systems to Puerto Rico in 2017 after Hurricane Maria, and those three are already on their way to the Bahamas direct from Puerto Rico.
A fourth unit, currently at their headquarters in South Portland, will leave to join them soon.
The Solar Outreach System has fifteen lockers containing two electrical outlets each, capable of powering small appliances for those in need – ranging from cell phone and lap tops to power tools and refrigerators.
The system has six photovoltaic panels on top that charge eight deep cycle batteries to provide energy 24/7.
ReVision Energy worked with a nationwide network of solar power companies in the Amicus National Co-Op to build all four units to donate to those in need.
“If we are fortunate enough to be in a position to help others, we’re going to do so, and if we end up in a position where we need help from other people, we would hope for the same in return. Pretty much living by the golden rule,” said Phil Coupe, Co-Founder of ReVision Energy.
When they ship out, Coupe hopes to have the trailer filled with donated supplies.
Upon reaching the Bahamas, it will be up to local officials to determine where they are needed most.
“We imagine the need will persist down there for months, and our goal is to get it down to the Bahamas as fast as humanly possible,” Coupe said.
One of the challenges is getting the trailer to the Bahamas. ReVision Energy is looking for volunteers to tow it down to Florida within the next couple of weeks. If you can help, contact Phil Coupe at (207) 232-6595 or phil@revisionenergy.com.
Coupe is also seeking donations in the forms of toiletries and other supplies, including: tarps, cleaning supplies, five-gallon contractor buckets, cans of ready-to-eat food with flip tops, disposable baby diapers, packages of hand wipes and other sanitizing items, bar soap, clothing detergent, small towels, band aids, toilet paper, paper towels, crayons and paper tablets for children.
You can drop off donations at their headquarters at 758 Westbrook St. in South Portland from 9 a.m to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
