Impact and Pathways of Transitioning to Solar Energy in Rural India

Although India has almost reached the historic goal of universal electrification, the challenge of supplying 24x7 power for all remains. Due to the low and distributed electricity demand in rural areas and the prevailing poverty, delivering uninterrupted power to every household is a drawn-out process. Despite its growing economy, India has low conventional energy resources compared to its required energy, and can harness the huge potential of solar energy as it lies in the tropical belt. This paper analyses the impact and pathways of the transition towards solar energy in rural India. By analysing data from a successful project-named Solar Mamas-of Barefoot College International, it highlights the benefits in climate change mitigation, rural employment creation and income generation for women, and democratisation of access to energy for hundreds of communities, all while helping India meets its 2030 SDG targets.