Among many developmental factors, the ‘energy’ factor plays a key role in the overall development process of any community/society. Sufficiency in energy is an enabling factor whereas its deficiency becomes a disabling factor.

Acknowledging its importance, Krushi Vikas conducted a preliminary survey and identified 3 energy-absent villages in Yawal block of Jalgaon district. Based on prior experience and impactful outcomes observed, Krushi Vikas aims to address energy deficit of these identified villages through promotion of solar based energy solutions and facilitate their integration with the development processes leading to social and economic empowerment and better standard of living.

Interventions

1. Promotion of solar home lighting system

2. Promotion of solar torchlights

3. Promotion of solar streetlights

4. Promotion of solar water pumps

5. Promotion of solar system for schools

Major outcomes

• 112 households of 3 villages electrified through solar home lighting system and torches.
• Drastic reduction in drudgery of women and girls through installation of 2 solar water pumps in 2 villages.
• Easy movement of all villagers during night time with installation of street lights at critical locations.
• Electricity for the school through solar panel system enables the teachers and students to use digital technology and create an enhanced learning environment.
• Community support and appreciation for addressing one of their pressing needs.Enhanced recognition of Donor and Implementing Agency by way of contributing to development of people at the ‘bottom of pyramid’.
• The project is sustainable as it will ensure power needs of the people for atleast 6-7 years by the time which villages shall be connected with grid electricity.

1. The project was undertaken in one of the most inaccessible regions. There are no proper roads, electricity, other basic amenities etc. The project area lies on the foothills of the Satpuda mountain range bordering Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh and falls within Forest Areas
2. The project area lies within Jalgaon district, an aspirational district of India
3. Community has contributed to the project through kind and labour
4. Sustainability has been central to the program designing and implementation. Generally it is seen that solar project fails to dleiver as expected due to lack of maintenance and replacement of damaged parts. We have addressed these aspects with the support of community members

1.