The objective of the Program is to provide renewable energy run devices to the poor in the underserved terrains of India through FWWB’s unique renewable Energy Loan support Program
As solar technology gets more advanced and cheap, more rural households are considering solar lamps and lighting systems as a way to harness abundant sunlight. Observing this trend, FWWB started the Renewable Energy Program with the aim of providing economical and sustainable solar lighting solutions to areas which have little or no access to electricity. It was initiated as a pilot project in the state of Manipur in 2009 with support from SIDBI. The program focuses on providing loan and technical support to microfinance institutions for providing Solar products to its clients.
-Safety and Security- Solar lights reduced the possibility of fire accidents. Household safety is increased. Also, women can walk out in the night with the lights.
-Students find the solar lights suitable for reading, better impact on education.
-Increased income for families- Women reported that they can work longer at night with the Solar lights which increased their business income. Also, savings resulted from non- usage of kerosene oil and candles for lighting purposes at home.
Ms. Senjam Bembem Devi a resident of Imphal, Manipur took a Solar Light. She is thankful to Chanura and FWWB for making her work more comfortable and productive. “It was a very happy moment, as I always desire to have one such solar product for my business” expressed Bembem with a huge smile.
Chanura Microfin Manipur stated that “since the people of Manipur are still facing acute problems of power shortage and at present people are accessing only 6 to 8 hrs a day. Every alternate day there is roster. Chanura continues “From Darkness to light” program which was launched on 19th December, 2009 with Ms Vijayalakshmi Das, CEO FWWB india, Mr. D. Gosh, DGM, SIDBI, Mrs. Smita Premchander, BOD FWWB India, Mrs. Veena Krishnamoorthy, FWWB India and Dr. V. Ramani of THRIVE Energy”
