Bringing Light to the Highlands: SolarBK, VinFast Energy & Thien Tam Fund Empower Remote Schools with Solar Power

With the desire to bring solar power to schools in remote areas without access to the national grid, and to help improve teaching and learning conditions, SolarBK has joined hands with Thien Tam Fund and VinFast Energy to launch the initiative “A Ray of Sunshine – Lighting Up the Future.” This meaningful philanthropic project not only provides a sustainable source of electricity but also inspires a green, eco-friendly lifestyle for future generations.
On April 11, 2025, the official handover ceremony of the solar power system with integrated battery storage—sponsored by the three entities—was held at Khe Long 3 Kindergarten (Mo Vang Commune, Van Yen District, Yen Bai Province). This is the third out of ten schools to receive support along this journey to bring Green energy to Vietnam’s highlands.
When Solar Power Lights Up the Flame of Knowledge...
In the majestic highlands, where mountain ranges kiss the clouds and winding roads trace through the wilderness, small schools quietly sit nestled in the forest. Here, the laughter of children blends with the mountain breeze—but something essential is missing: electricity.
These classrooms lack fans to cool the summer heat, lights to extend study time, or radios to play cheerful songs... But through heartfelt compassion and a shared aspiration for change, the program “A Ray of Sunshine – Lighting Up the Future” was born.
Initiated by SolarBK, Thien Tam Fund, and VinFast Energy (a subsidiary of Vingroup), the program goes beyond simply providing electricity—it offers the chance for teachers and students in mountainous regions to enjoy better learning conditions. In the 2024–2025 phase, the program aims to install solar power systems at 10 particularly disadvantaged schools without access to the national grid across three northern provinces—Yen Bai, Lai Chau, and Dien Bien—with a total funding of VND 1.8 billion.
As of Q1 2025, the first three systems have been successfully commissioned. According to the rollout plan, the remaining systems will be installed and operational by the end of 2025—promising a warmer, brighter winter for hundreds of children and teachers in remote highland regions. Each school is equipped with a solar power system and battery storage with a capacity of 6.48 kWp + 10.6 kWh, expected to generate around 7,000 kWh/year—sufficient to meet the school’s basic energy needs. Thanks to the converted energy, schools can now power lights, fans, TVs, radios, and more, significantly enhancing the teaching and learning experience.
More than just an energy solution, the program is a symbol of solidarity and corporate social responsibility. VinFast Energy and SolarBK are pioneers in renewable energy and battery storage technologies. The two companies have collaborated on major projects, including Vietnam’s largest rooftop solar installation of 30.72 MWp at VinFast’s Hai Phong plant.
With its mission to spread kindness, Thien Tam Fund serves as a bridge, enabling both companies to deploy advanced solar solutions to support education in Vietnam’s mountainous northwest.

Khe Long 3 Kindergarten – A Milestone on the Green Energy Journey
Khe Long 3 Kindergarten, part of Mo Vang Kindergarten in Van Yen District, is one of the most disadvantaged schools in Yen Bai Province. Located about 10 kilometers by car and 4 kilometers by motorbike from the commune center, the school has two classrooms serving 46 children—all from the Hmong ethnic group.
Prior to receiving solar energy, the school faced countless challenges. With no access to the national grid, the school relied on unstable electricity from nearby households, only enough to power two small light bulbs—greatly limiting educational activities, especially in applying technology to teaching.
Thanks to the program, a stable solar energy system now powers lighting, teaching equipment, and internet connectivity. At the handover ceremony, Ms. Ngo Thi Bich Thao, Principal of Mo Vang Kindergarten, shared emotionally:
"Since the solar system was installed, teaching and learning conditions have improved significantly. Our teachers are now more motivated with better teaching tools, and the students are more excited with interactive lessons. More than just lights, this project has taught our kids a valuable lesson in clean energy and environmental care. From a school once struggling in the dark, Khe Long 3 is now a shining example of support for highland education. We are deeply grateful to Thien Tam Fund, SolarBK, and VinFast Energy for their support."
Ms. Nguyen Thuy Ngan, Representative of SolarBK, remarked:
"Born out of Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, we at SolarBK have always believed in growing our business alongside our responsibility to the community—especially education, which is the foundation for meaningful, long-term change. For years, we have worked with partners to bring clean, green energy to remote parts of the country, proudly using products researched and developed by Vietnamese people. These projects do more than bring light—they inspire a sense of environmental responsibility. Our children deserve a green, clean, and progressive environment."
Before Khe Long 3, the program had successfully installed solar systems at two other disadvantaged schools: Xe Ma Kindergarten (Muong Te District, Lai Chau Province) and Pa Tet Kindergarten (Muong Nhe District, Dien Bien Province).
With these initial successes, the program aims to expand this model to more underserved communities. Its success is not just measured by the number of systems installed, but by the positive transformation in education quality and the joyful smiles of children in the highlands. This is the driving force behind our continued efforts to bring solar energy—and with it, knowledge—to places still lacking in light.

About the Program’s Implementing Partners
1. SolarBK – Bach Khoa Solar Investment and Development Company
SolarBK is a leading Vietnamese enterprise providing comprehensive solar power solutions, covering R&D, manufacturing, EPC, and O&M services. Founded in 2006, SolarBK grew out of Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, with its founders being pioneering scientists in Vietnam’s renewable energy sector.
Beyond business, SolarBK is committed to community engagement, especially in education—hence the birth of this initiative. Through its renewable energy projects, SolarBK hopes to create better learning opportunities for children in remote and island areas.
Learn more:
www.solarbk.vn
www.facebook.com/solarbk
www.linkedin.com/company/solarbk
www.youtube.com/channel/solarbk
2. VinFast Energy
VinFast Energy is VinFast’s specialized energy arm, focusing on advanced, high-quality, safe, and versatile battery solutions. The company plays a vital role in Vingroup’s mission to achieve net-zero emissions and drive the global energy transition toward sustainability.
Through this initiative, VinFast Energy hopes to make a meaningful contribution by bringing light, knowledge, and hope to students in challenging highland areas. The company is proud that its Made-in-Vietnam technologies are improving lives—especially for those nurturing Vietnam’s future.
Learn more:
https://vinfastauto.com/vn_vi/vf-energy
3. Thien Tam Fund
Founded and funded by Vingroup, Thien Tam Fund began its operations in October 2006 with the mission: “For a better life for everyone.” The fund acts as a bridge to convey the goodwill of Vingroup to the wider community—supporting health, education, and social initiatives across Vietnam.