SamSam is a social enterprise which has its roots in the Netherlands, employing 20 people and serving over 60 customers a month.
Jan David, the Founder of SamSam in the Netherlands says: “After I left high school, I knew that I wanted to start a business with a strong focus of making a social impact on society. During my visit to South Africa for my graduation program, Africa took a place in my heart and I immediately felt that I wanted to make a meaningful contribution there that would last.”
“Besides the challenges I have seen being faced in daily life, I see an enormous beauty in this land and have experienced the warm hospitality of the local people firsthand. I am grateful that I can contribute to making a difference together with the team in Cape Town.”
He adds that, “It is this focus and passion that makes SamSam not only strongly committed to sustainable energy and the well-being of our planet, but it makes us cherish the belief that together we can contribute in a much more meaningful way to our society. And you can be part of this!”
Personalized energy solutions
Jan says that SamSam is foundational goal is to offer honest, local, sustainable, and personalized energy solutions for your home or business. “Doing so together with our enthusiastic local workforce and partners, and sharing our knowledge amongst each other is what makes us all grow more and more professionally every day, ensuring the best quality and services.”
“Having our roots in the Netherlands means we will offer service of European standards with quick and clear communication, so you can enjoy a smooth and stress-free installation. Our close relationship with the Dutch branch means we constantly learn from each other is challenges and achievements and share knowledge like newly introduced technologies. This ensures we have the expertise to find the right energy solution for your needs and overcome possible challenges and turning them into opportunities while harvesting the African sun!”
SamSam has grown into a true partner in designing and installing solar energy solutions. Although Jan says that with growth comes change, “what remains is the pride of the company: our commitment to social entrepreneurship. SamSam has been, since the start of her existence, giving back to community. A beautiful example of this is our latest social project, Lawrence House youth care facility in Cape Town City Centre.”
Social footprint
Lawrence House is a child and youth care facility run by the Scalabrini Centre, and is based in Woodstock, Cape Town. The house can accommodate up to 25 children and specializes in the care and protection of children who are unaccompanied minors and refugees, as well as children who have experienced trauma.
Operating Manager, Romina, talks about the organization with a lot of warmth and commitment. Originating from Italy, she has worked for the organization from the very beginning, when Lawrence House started in 2005: “The children cared for at Lawrence House, no matter how young they are, already carry quite a history with them. The problems they struggle with are of great complexity and the children often display a variety of emotional, psychological and behavioral difficulties”.
In addition to a warm and safe home, Lawrence House offers various programs to guide young people along the path of recovery. The goal is for these young people to become equipped with the necessary skills to manage themselves and to successfully reintegrate into society.
The support that keeps giving
SamSam has provided Lawrence House with 20 solar panels connected to a 12kW Hybrid inverter and a 16kWh battery back-up system. This grid-tied hybrid back-up system creates a 50% decrease of energy costs on an annual basis and is designed for future extension. Everyone has experienced ever-rising energy prices and load shedding, and the solar panels combined with back-up batteries minimize this impact for Lawrence House, immediately leaving room in their budget for more fun things for the kids.
The preparations and installations were all done with local partners – from engineering, to SSEG application, to installation of the system and performance of the Certificate of Compliance. The project was a great success and the whole team enjoyed making this contribution with great pride. Romina says: “Getting up a solar system in a children’s home is not the easiest of tasks. The team was focused and completed them with dedication and skill. Thank you for your hard work and commitment!”
This is a true testament to the power of sharing. So, if you are considering solar for your home or business, SamSam could be the perfect match for you. This is applicable to anyone who wants solar for a fair price, and who also values giving back to the community.
The process involves a visit to discuss possibilities and set expectations, then a custom fit design with a focus on the best return of investment and reaching one’s energy goals.
SamSam offers a full service from A to Z – from your SSEG application, to full commissioning and setting up your system, plus obtaining one’s Certificate of Compliance.
Get in touch: www.samsam.co.za
