As part of Sustainability Week 2026, associates across Canada participated in SolarBuddy, a hands-on volunteer initiative that helps address energy poverty by providing solar lights to children and communities without reliable access to electricity, across the world. Teams came together to assemble solar lights, learn about the challenges of energy poverty, and write personal messages to the children who will receive them.
"The activity was extremely well received across participating locations. Participants described the experience as engaging, meaningful, and closely connected to Sonepar's purpose and industry," said Sonepar Canada Sustainability Manager Maxime Viger. “In addition to understanding the technical aspects of solar lighting, associates gained a deeper appreciation for the impact that access to reliable energy can have on education, safety, and quality of life for children and communities around the world.”
“Several teams expressed interest in expanding the program in future years so that even more associates and branches can take part. What stood out most was the opportunity for our people to contribute to a tangible solution while seeing how the products and expertise that are central to our business can help address real-world challenges. The initiative helped turn sustainability from a concept into action and demonstrated the positive impact we can create when we work together,” Maxime stated.
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About Sonepar:
Sonepar is an independent family-owned company standing as the world leader in B-to-B distribution of electrical equipment, solutions, and services. In 2025, Sonepar achieved sales of €33.6 billion. Present in 40 countries with a dense network of brands, the Group is leading an ambitious transformation to make its customers’ lives easier providing them with an omnichannel experience and sustainable solutions in the building, industry, and energy markets. Sonepar’s 46 000 associates are committed to accelerating the world’s electrification and driven by a shared Purpose: Powering Progress for Future Generations. www.sonepar.com
About Sonepar in Canada:
Sonepar entered Canada in 1984 and has continued to grow through strategic acquisitions and organic growth. Today, Sonepar serves the Canadian market through a network of six companies with over 100 locations and 2,500 associates nationwide. For more information, visit www.soneparcanada.com
Press Contact: Shoynear Morrison, Communications Director shoynear.morrison@sonepar.ca