Renewable Energy Programme

Programme Name: Renewable Energy Programme

Introduction:

Nepal Women Community Service Center (NWCSC) has embarked on a transformative journey with the vision of “Ek Ghar Ek Solar,” aiming to provide alternative sources of lighting and energy to communities. This initiative is currently being implemented in Dang, Salyan, Rolpa, and Pyuthan districts. Through the Renewal Energy programme, NWCSC is distributing small solar light systems and solar photovoltaic water pumping systems to clients of their microfinance programme. With crucial technical assistance from ARC finance and the Alternative Energy Promotion Center (AEPC)/Center for Renewable Energy Fund (CREF)/Government of Nepal (GON), NWCSC is enhancing the technical capabilities of its staff and clients. Moreover, it is building essential linkages with product companies to promote solar home systems and solar photovoltaic water pumping systems.

Programme Objectives:

  • The primary objective is to provide irrigation facilities to farmers through photovoltaic water systems, thereby alleviating the challenges of water scarcity and ensuring consistent access to water for agricultural purposes.
  • Enhance farmers’ livelihoods through efficient well water management, maximizing the productive use of water resources.
  • Increase irrigated land by promoting drip irrigation techniques, enabling diversified agricultural practices, cash crop cultivation, and enhancing income and food security.

Funding Agency: Nepal Women Community Service Center (NWCSC)

Programme Period: 2015 ongoing

Programme Area: Dang, Salyan, Rolpa and Pyuthan

Implementing Partner: Saral Urga, ARC Finance, the Alternative Energy Promotion Center (AEPC), the Center for Renewable Energy Fund (CREF), and the Government of Nepal (GON).

Programme Activities:

  • Distribution of small solar light systems and solar photovoltaic water pumping systems to microfinance programme clients.
  • Technical capacity enhancement for NWCSC staff and clients, facilitated by collaborative efforts with ARC finance, AEPC, CREF, and GON.
  • Providing irrigation facilities to address water scarcity, ensuring consistent water access for agriculture.
  • Focusing on efficient well water management for increased agricultural yield and improved livelihoods.
  • Promoting drip irrigation techniques to expand irrigated land, support diversified agriculture, and enhance food security.

Programme Achievements:

  • Successful distribution of small solar light systems and solar photovoltaic water pumping systems, improving access to clean and reliable energy sources for microfinance programme clients.
  • Enhanced technical capacity and support for NWCSC staff and clients through collaboration with ARC finance, AEPC, CREF, and GON, contributing to the effective implementation of renewable energy solutions.
  • Increased agricultural productivity and improved livelihoods of farmers through the provision of irrigation facilities.
  • Adoption of efficient well water management practices, resulting in higher agricultural yield and overall community benefits.
  • Expansion of irrigated land, facilitating diversified agriculture, cash crop cultivation, and improved economic prospects for local farmers while enhancing food security.

Although the formal programme has concluded, NWCSC continues to actively engage in this endeavour, allocating resources from their internal budget to sustain and further their efforts in this area which includes:

  • Women’s Empowerment: Empower women in rural areas by involving them as active participants in renewable energy initiatives.
  • Community Training: Conduct workshops for communities on solar system and water pump maintenance, enabling independent troubleshooting.
  • Public Awareness: Continue educating communities on renewable energy’s benefits, environmental impact, and long-term economic advantages.
  • Agricultural Expertise: Partner with agricultural experts for guidance on efficient farming practices and sustainable agriculture.
  • Local NGO Partnerships: Collaborate with local NGOs and community groups to expand outreach and impact.
  • Climate Adaptation: Develop strategies to help communities adapt to changing climate patterns, which may affect agriculture and water availability.
  • Market Connections: Facilitate links between local farmers and markets to translate higher agricultural productivity into income.
  • Community-Based Projects: Consider community-led renewable energy initiatives with local ownership and decision-making.
  • Research and Innovation: Invest in research and innovation for cutting-edge solutions in the renewable energy sector.
  • Environmental Education: Provide training on environmental conservation and sustainable farming practices for holistic rural development.

These measures will contribute to a more comprehensive and sustainable impact on the livelihoods of rural communities while promoting clean energy adoption and economic development in Western Nepal.