Evolving Micro-Grids & Solar Lighting Urban~Rural Enhancements – Mar 17, 2019 – EmeraldPlanet TV©

By Urban AG Report On Feb 13, 2023

“Miracles of Solar Lighting & Microgrids: Bringing Critical Needed Renewable Energy Lighting, Cooking, Heating, & Recharging Services to Marginalized Communities in Environmentally Sensitive Areas”.

Show ‘1’ ~ Show ‘4’ Nikhil Jaisinghani, Co-Founder, Mera Gao Power and Soumitr Solutions, (In-Studio)

According to the Indian Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), the country’s renewable capacity including solar, wind, biomass, and small hydro grew by 11.2 GW in 2017. India also increased its new solar capacity by 83% currently up to 5,526 MW projected.. It is not surprising – given the changemakers of Indian business ecosystem in the last few years – that a large part of this change is being led by startups and entrepreneurs.

Given the market opportunity and environment need, it is only natural that renewable energy is consistently at the forefront of funding wars clocking in mega-deals worth $100M+ according to market reports. Given the scope the field of solar energy has, we focus on startups – based on their unique ideas, potential social and/or economic impact, funding and more – that have a promising future in this space.

Mera Gao Power, a microgrid startup, was co-founded by Sandeep Pandey, Brian Shaad, and Nikhil Jaisinghani. It operates primarily in UP and has already served more than 1,50,000 individuals in 1,600 off-grid villages in the state. The company provides these villages with high-quality, reliable lighting and mobile charging solutions in less than $1000 per village.

The result is not only noble but also laudable – Mera Gao Power is the first commercially viable microgrid for rural India and the underprivileged. Fewer power cuts, more electrified villages, and better climate – the benefits of a solar-led future are immense. These and other startups and social enterprises including Boond Engineering, Cygni Energy, EAI among others are leading the way. Hopefully, many others will come forward to bolster the space and ensure a brighter and renewed future.