Alex Munro – A Chadstone resident has been leading a team of volunteers spreading light throughout some of the most remote parts of East Timor.

Prabir Majumdar and 16 volunteers spent three weeks in Baguia, Same, Ainaro, and Ermera, installing solar panels and showing locals how to set up solar power systems to provide electricity for the villages.

"Currently, as per the government's plan, these villages won't have electricity for the next 15 or 20 years," Dr Majumdar said.

"The main benefit is we are taking them away from kerosene and candles which cost up to $5 a month. People see the benefit of solar household systems and the acceptance level is very high."

The Alternative Technology Association's International Projects Group has installed solar lighting and power systems in more than 1000 homes, community centres, schools, hospitals and training centres in East Timor since 2005. For more information, call 9639 1500 or visit ata.org.au