+ All Categories
Home > Documents > Gkc Oneworld Community Solar Power Plant Jhansi

Gkc Oneworld Community Solar Power Plant Jhansi

Date post: 18-Dec-2015
Category:
Upload: sravya-ratna
View: 5 times
Download: 1 times
Share this document with a friend
Description:
best practice of solar energy
Popular Tags:
13
Transcript
  • [email protected]

    January 2011

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public GrievancesMinistry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Government of Indiahttp://indiagovernance.gov.in/

    Researched and Documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Community Solar Power Plant Project - Jhansi

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    Table of Contents EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ................................

    BACKGROUND ................................

    OBJECTIVE ................................

    WORKING DESIGN ................................

    FINANCIAL OPERATIONS ................................

    METHODOLOGY ................................

    KEY STAKEHOLDERS

    LESSONS LEARNED ................................

    LOOKING AHEAD ................................

    REFERENCES ................................

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Environmental Sustainability

    Community Solar Power Plant Project

    ................................................................................................

    ................................................................................................................................

    ................................................................................................................................

    ................................................................................................

    ................................................................................................

    ................................................................................................................................

    ................................................................................................

    ................................................................................................

    ................................................................................................

    ................................................................................................................................

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Environmental Sustainability

    olar Power Plant Project Jhansi

    January 2011

    1

    ......................................................... 2

    ........................................ 3

    ................................................ 4

    ................................................................. 4

    .................................................... 7

    ..................................... 8

    .................................................. 8

    ................................................................ 9

    ................................................................ 11

    .......................................... 11

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

    Rural electrification still remains an under addressed issue in India. Most villages are too small

    to be covered under State electricity schemes and in such circumstances, these villages remain

    unlit. Access to electricity is of utmost importance as it is

    development of rural areas.

    In January 2009, Scatec Solar, a Norwegian company working in the field of solar solutions,

    partnered with Development Alternatives(DA), an Indian non profit organisation working in

    the field of creating sustainable livelihoods, to pilot the Community Solar Power Plant(CSPP)

    project in two villages: Rampura and Gopalpura in Jhansi district, Uttar Pradesh. The project

    leverages solar technology and participatory processes to build power plants for e

    the villages.

    The first step was to create the Village Energy Committee (VEC) which would include

    members from all sectors of the village community. DA played the role of project facilitator and

    devised innovative mechanisms to mobilise the v

    plant operations and maintenance would be locally owned. Sratec Solar funded the project and

    aided with technical expertise.

    The CSPP project has changed the lives of the villagers. They can now use electric

    entrepreneurial activities, students can study for extra time, the streets are well lit and safe, and

    women can engage in extra income generating activities like sewing.

    One of the key features of the project is its unique consumption based tariff structure which

    simply follows the principle of pay according to your usage. Villagers willingly pay the

    variable cost which depends on the units they consume. The CSPP model p

    solution to the problem of rural electrification and can be replicated across villages with

    modifications according to local conditions.

    This document attempts to capture the working design of the project and highlight its unique

    approach in hopes of assisting in the replication process.

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Environmental Sustainability

    Community Solar Power Plant Project

    SUMMARY

    Rural electrification still remains an under addressed issue in India. Most villages are too small

    to be covered under State electricity schemes and in such circumstances, these villages remain

    unlit. Access to electricity is of utmost importance as it is a basic building block in the

    In January 2009, Scatec Solar, a Norwegian company working in the field of solar solutions,

    partnered with Development Alternatives(DA), an Indian non profit organisation working in

    reating sustainable livelihoods, to pilot the Community Solar Power Plant(CSPP)

    project in two villages: Rampura and Gopalpura in Jhansi district, Uttar Pradesh. The project

    leverages solar technology and participatory processes to build power plants for e

    The first step was to create the Village Energy Committee (VEC) which would include

    members from all sectors of the village community. DA played the role of project facilitator and

    devised innovative mechanisms to mobilise the villagers and train the VEC so that ultimately,

    plant operations and maintenance would be locally owned. Sratec Solar funded the project and

    aided with technical expertise.

    The CSPP project has changed the lives of the villagers. They can now use electric

    entrepreneurial activities, students can study for extra time, the streets are well lit and safe, and

    women can engage in extra income generating activities like sewing.

    One of the key features of the project is its unique consumption based tariff structure which

    simply follows the principle of pay according to your usage. Villagers willingly pay the

    variable cost which depends on the units they consume. The CSPP model p

    solution to the problem of rural electrification and can be replicated across villages with

    modifications according to local conditions.

    This document attempts to capture the working design of the project and highlight its unique

    ach in hopes of assisting in the replication process.

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Environmental Sustainability

    olar Power Plant Project Jhansi

    January 2011

    2

    Rural electrification still remains an under addressed issue in India. Most villages are too small

    to be covered under State electricity schemes and in such circumstances, these villages remain

    a basic building block in the

    In January 2009, Scatec Solar, a Norwegian company working in the field of solar solutions,

    partnered with Development Alternatives(DA), an Indian non profit organisation working in

    reating sustainable livelihoods, to pilot the Community Solar Power Plant(CSPP)

    project in two villages: Rampura and Gopalpura in Jhansi district, Uttar Pradesh. The project

    leverages solar technology and participatory processes to build power plants for electrifying

    The first step was to create the Village Energy Committee (VEC) which would include

    members from all sectors of the village community. DA played the role of project facilitator and

    illagers and train the VEC so that ultimately,

    plant operations and maintenance would be locally owned. Sratec Solar funded the project and

    The CSPP project has changed the lives of the villagers. They can now use electricity for

    entrepreneurial activities, students can study for extra time, the streets are well lit and safe, and

    One of the key features of the project is its unique consumption based tariff structure which

    simply follows the principle of pay according to your usage. Villagers willingly pay the

    variable cost which depends on the units they consume. The CSPP model provides a possible

    solution to the problem of rural electrification and can be replicated across villages with

    This document attempts to capture the working design of the project and highlight its unique

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    BACKGROUND

    RURAL ELECTRIFICATION IN INDIA

    Viable and efficient electricity is a crucial public service. Availability of electricity can increase

    productivity in agriculture, improve delivery of

    various means of communication (radio, television etc.), generate greater employment

    opportunities and result in the overall development of a region. Unfortunately, 44 percent of

    rural India still lacks access to

    connected to power grids. This reflects a huge gap in demand and supply of energy and the

    inability of current efforts to provide reliable and affordable electricity to the rural poor.

    COMMUNITY SOLAR POWER PLANT PROJECT

    The above situation points to the need for use of alternate sources of energy with which a

    sound model for rural electrification can be designed. One initiative addressing this issue is the

    Community Solar Power Plant (CSPP) project in Jhansi District of UP. The project is run by the

    Development Alternatives (DA) Group, an Indian non

    working in the field of sustainable livelihoods for the past 25 years.

    Scatec Solar, a Norwegian en

    towards electrifying rural Indian and hence, they determined to collaborate with DA.

    The pilot was launched in two villages: Rampura and Gopalpura. Both villages have

    approximately 70 households th

    establishment of the solar plants, both of these villages were deprived of electricity as they had

    been left out of all state government electrification schemes. In such a situation, kerosene lamps

    were used for household lighting.

    The solar plants were inaugurated in January 2009. This collaborative venture involving

    grassroots facilitation by DA, financial support from Scatec Solar, and technical support from

    the Bergen Group India, has illustrated ho

    India.

    1 MINISTRY OF POWER SURVEY 2005

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Environmental Sustainability

    Community Solar Power Plant Project

    RURAL ELECTRIFICATION IN INDIA

    Viable and efficient electricity is a crucial public service. Availability of electricity can increase

    productivity in agriculture, improve delivery of healthcare and education, ensure access to

    various means of communication (radio, television etc.), generate greater employment

    opportunities and result in the overall development of a region. Unfortunately, 44 percent of

    rural India still lacks access to electricity1Almost 1, 25,000 villages across the country are not

    connected to power grids. This reflects a huge gap in demand and supply of energy and the

    inability of current efforts to provide reliable and affordable electricity to the rural poor.

    UNITY SOLAR POWER PLANT PROJECT- JHANSI

    The above situation points to the need for use of alternate sources of energy with which a

    sound model for rural electrification can be designed. One initiative addressing this issue is the

    nt (CSPP) project in Jhansi District of UP. The project is run by the

    Development Alternatives (DA) Group, an Indian non-profit organisation that has been

    working in the field of sustainable livelihoods for the past 25 years.

    Scatec Solar, a Norwegian energy company, was keen to harness their solar energy work

    towards electrifying rural Indian and hence, they determined to collaborate with DA.

    The pilot was launched in two villages: Rampura and Gopalpura. Both villages have

    approximately 70 households that largely engage in agricultural work. Prior to the

    establishment of the solar plants, both of these villages were deprived of electricity as they had

    been left out of all state government electrification schemes. In such a situation, kerosene lamps

    used for household lighting.

    The solar plants were inaugurated in January 2009. This collaborative venture involving

    grassroots facilitation by DA, financial support from Scatec Solar, and technical support from

    the Bergen Group India, has illustrated how alternative electricity can change lives in rural

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Environmental Sustainability

    olar Power Plant Project Jhansi

    January 2011

    3

    Viable and efficient electricity is a crucial public service. Availability of electricity can increase

    healthcare and education, ensure access to

    various means of communication (radio, television etc.), generate greater employment

    opportunities and result in the overall development of a region. Unfortunately, 44 percent of

    villages across the country are not

    connected to power grids. This reflects a huge gap in demand and supply of energy and the

    inability of current efforts to provide reliable and affordable electricity to the rural poor.

    The above situation points to the need for use of alternate sources of energy with which a

    sound model for rural electrification can be designed. One initiative addressing this issue is the

    nt (CSPP) project in Jhansi District of UP. The project is run by the

    profit organisation that has been

    ergy company, was keen to harness their solar energy work

    towards electrifying rural Indian and hence, they determined to collaborate with DA.

    The pilot was launched in two villages: Rampura and Gopalpura. Both villages have

    at largely engage in agricultural work. Prior to the

    establishment of the solar plants, both of these villages were deprived of electricity as they had

    been left out of all state government electrification schemes. In such a situation, kerosene lamps

    The solar plants were inaugurated in January 2009. This collaborative venture involving

    grassroots facilitation by DA, financial support from Scatec Solar, and technical support from

    w alternative electricity can change lives in rural

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    OBJECTIVE The objective of the CSPP project is to:

    test the technological and commercial viability of using solar power for providing

    electricity in rural areas

    establish a community managed model of operation and revenue generation

    build a working model of community based solar plants that can be replicated in other

    villages across India

    WORKING DESIGN A Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) model was used wit

    owned and maintained power plant.

    CREATING AN ENABLING ENVIRONMENT

    The first step was to create the Village Energy Committee (VEC). Efforts were taken to ensure

    that all sectors of the village community, particularly wom

    The committee is responsible for the construction, operation and maintenance of the power

    plant. Initially, the major task was to mobilise villagers and clear up their misconceptions

    regarding solar energy. DA, who already

    played a prominent role in this process.

    Various workshops were organised to build awareness about the environmental, economic and

    social benefits of solar power. Meetings were held with local gove

    administration and the villagers to generate an open dialogue platform on the topic. An

    innovative game of saap sidhi

    certain positive measures, like the use of solar ele

    ladder.

    CAPACITY BUILDING OF VEC

    A bank account was opened in the name of the VEC for maintaining its finances. The bank

    account also acted as a social instrument for developing trust amongst the villagers by directly

    involving them in the financial process. Through the account, the commu

    the status of their funds at any given time; hence, mitigating the possibility of misuse of

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Environmental Sustainability

    Community Solar Power Plant Project

    The objective of the CSPP project is to:

    est the technological and commercial viability of using solar power for providing

    electricity in rural areas

    establish a community managed model of operation and revenue generation

    build a working model of community based solar plants that can be replicated in other

    WORKING DESIGN Transfer (BOOT) model was used with the ultimate goal of a village

    owned and maintained power plant.

    CREATING AN ENABLING ENVIRONMENT

    The first step was to create the Village Energy Committee (VEC). Efforts were taken to ensure

    that all sectors of the village community, particularly women, were represented in the VEC.

    The committee is responsible for the construction, operation and maintenance of the power

    plant. Initially, the major task was to mobilise villagers and clear up their misconceptions

    regarding solar energy. DA, who already had a base in the village through its previous projects,

    played a prominent role in this process.

    Various workshops were organised to build awareness about the environmental, economic and

    social benefits of solar power. Meetings were held with local government agencies, district

    administration and the villagers to generate an open dialogue platform on the topic. An

    innovative game of saap sidhi (snakes and ladders) was introduced to explain how taking

    certain positive measures, like the use of solar electricity, could help village life move up the

    CAPACITY BUILDING OF VEC

    A bank account was opened in the name of the VEC for maintaining its finances. The bank

    account also acted as a social instrument for developing trust amongst the villagers by directly

    involving them in the financial process. Through the account, the commu

    the status of their funds at any given time; hence, mitigating the possibility of misuse of

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Environmental Sustainability

    olar Power Plant Project Jhansi

    January 2011

    4

    est the technological and commercial viability of using solar power for providing

    establish a community managed model of operation and revenue generation

    build a working model of community based solar plants that can be replicated in other

    h the ultimate goal of a village

    The first step was to create the Village Energy Committee (VEC). Efforts were taken to ensure

    en, were represented in the VEC.

    The committee is responsible for the construction, operation and maintenance of the power

    plant. Initially, the major task was to mobilise villagers and clear up their misconceptions

    had a base in the village through its previous projects,

    Various workshops were organised to build awareness about the environmental, economic and

    rnment agencies, district

    administration and the villagers to generate an open dialogue platform on the topic. An

    (snakes and ladders) was introduced to explain how taking

    ctricity, could help village life move up the

    A bank account was opened in the name of the VEC for maintaining its finances. The bank

    account also acted as a social instrument for developing trust amongst the villagers by directly

    involving them in the financial process. Through the account, the community became aware of

    the status of their funds at any given time; hence, mitigating the possibility of misuse of

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    Source: Scatec Solar

    revenue. All VEC members are trained in various responsibilities such as cleaning of PV

    modules, operation, preventative maintenance, data coll

    level, bill preparation and distribution, revenue collection, and accounting. It took eight months

    to train the VEC in power plant operations.

    BUILDING THE PLANT

    TECHNICAL OPERATIONS

    DA conducted a survey to estim

    the survey results of present and potential demand, the solar plants were designed and land

    in the villages. Rampura supplies power to individual homes

    through a 0.75 km long mini

    centralised charging hub from where villagers can charge their batteries, lanterns (provided

    through the project fund), mobile phones and other chargeable gadgets. In terms of

    technological efficacy and community response, the Rampura

    model than the one in Gopalpura.

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Environmental Sustainability

    Community Solar Power Plant Project

    revenue. All VEC members are trained in various responsibilities such as cleaning of PV

    modules, operation, preventative maintenance, data collection, meter reading at the household

    level, bill preparation and distribution, revenue collection, and accounting. It took eight months

    to train the VEC in power plant operations.

    TECHNICAL OPERATIONS

    DA conducted a survey to estimate the electricity load requirements of the villagers. Based on

    the survey results of present and potential demand, the solar plants were designed and land

    was secured for the plants with the help of the

    village panchayat.

    Two different technologies were adopted in

    Rampura and Gopalpura. The Rampura plant uses

    crystalline silicon solar plants, whereas amorphous

    silicon thin film modules have been

    Gopalpura. The plant capacity in Rampura and

    Gopalpura is 8.7 and 9 kWp, respectively. Similarly,

    two different distribution models have been tested

    in the villages. Rampura supplies power to individual homes

    through a 0.75 km long mini-grid, whereas Gopalpura has a

    centralised charging hub from where villagers can charge their batteries, lanterns (provided

    through the project fund), mobile phones and other chargeable gadgets. In terms of

    technological efficacy and community response, the Rampura plant was found to be a better

    model than the one in Gopalpura.

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Environmental Sustainability

    olar Power Plant Project Jhansi

    January 2011

    5

    revenue. All VEC members are trained in various responsibilities such as cleaning of PV

    ection, meter reading at the household

    level, bill preparation and distribution, revenue collection, and accounting. It took eight months

    ate the electricity load requirements of the villagers. Based on

    the survey results of present and potential demand, the solar plants were designed and land

    was secured for the plants with the help of the

    Two different technologies were adopted in

    Rampura and Gopalpura. The Rampura plant uses

    crystalline silicon solar plants, whereas amorphous

    silicon thin film modules have been used in

    Gopalpura. The plant capacity in Rampura and

    Gopalpura is 8.7 and 9 kWp, respectively. Similarly,

    two different distribution models have been tested

    in the villages. Rampura supplies power to individual homes

    eas Gopalpura has a

    centralised charging hub from where villagers can charge their batteries, lanterns (provided

    through the project fund), mobile phones and other chargeable gadgets. In terms of

    plant was found to be a better

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    THE RAMPURA MODEL (DESIGNED AND BUILT B

    A POLY-CRYSTALLINE SOLAR PA

    MODULE CONSISTS OF

    TOTAL PANEL HAS THE

    A 0.75 KM LONG MINI DISTRIB

    DOMESTIC AND COMMUNI

    BATTERY-BACK UP TO SECURE

    SUNLIGHT.

    CAPABLE OF POWERING

    PROVISION TO SUPPLY

    Source: Light at night: Community Solar Power Plant. UNDP

    Source: Scatec Solar

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Environmental Sustainability

    Community Solar Power Plant Project

    DESIGNED AND BUILT BY BERGEN INDIA) CONSISTS OF

    CRYSTALLINE SOLAR PANEL HAVING 3 STRINGS OF 20

    MODULE CONSISTS OF 50 CELLS AND HAS THE CAPACITY TO GENERATE

    TOTAL PANEL HAS THE CAPACITY TO GENERATE 8KWP.

    KM LONG MINI DISTRIBUTION GRID TO SUPPLY 220 V ALTERNA

    DOMESTIC AND COMMUNITY USAGE.

    BACK UP TO SECURE 3 DAYS OF ELECTRICITY SUPPLY IN THE ABSENC

    CAPABLE OF POWERING 13 STREET LIGHTS

    PROVISION TO SUPPLY 220 V AC ELECTRICITY FOR ENTERPRISE LOAD UP T

    Source: Light at night: Community Solar Power Plant. UNDP

    Source: Scatec Solar

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Environmental Sustainability

    olar Power Plant Project Jhansi

    January 2011

    6

    CONSISTS OF:

    20 MODULES EACH; EACH

    PACITY TO GENERATE 145 WP. THE

    V ALTERNATE CURRENT FOR

    SUPPLY IN THE ABSENCE OF

    ENTERPRISE LOAD UP TO 3 HP

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    LINKING THE PLANT TO HOUSEHOLDS IN RAMPURA

    A specially designed application form was collected

    their house to the mini grid. The terms and conditions, designed through a participatory

    planning process, particularly the tariff scheme (see next section), was explained to the villagers

    and their consent was sought out for customising internal wiring within their houses. High

    quality wires were used in every household to ensure safety.

    The cost of internal wiring was made transparent to the villagers beforehand as they were to

    meet these expenses on their own.

    facilitated and ensured that the process was carried out smoothly. Villagers were encouraged to

    participate in the construction of the plant so that the earnings they made through labour could

    be used to meet the expenses of internal wiring.

    FINANCIAL OPERATIONS The cost of commissioning the community solar power plant came to 29.5 lakh. This included

    the cost of civil works, cables, battery, power controlling unit, and setting up the mini grid.

    Individual households had to bear the initial cost for necessary infr

    wiring. The VEC collected Rs. 500 as a security deposit from each household seeking the

    electricity connection. Individual households have to pay monthly service charges to the VEC.

    The electricity tariff was based on what vi

    (kerosene and batteries). With the support of the VEC and Scatec Solar, Development

    Alternatives developed and implemented a tariff structure comprised of a fixed and variable

    charge; the fixed charge was to

    charge was for daily operation and management. At the start, the fixed monthly charge for a

    CFL bulb, fan, and TV was Rs 20, Rs 80 and Rs 90 respectively; the variable charge was Rs 4.50

    per unit. Although these tariffs worked initially, villagers gradually started consuming more

    energy by taking up additional lights and fans. The result was an imbalance in demand and

    supply. In order to trace this imbalance and inculcate a sense of effective u

    was collectively decided to introduce a

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Environmental Sustainability

    Community Solar Power Plant Project

    LINKING THE PLANT TO HOUSEHOLDS IN RAMPURA

    A specially designed application form was collected from interested villagers before connecting

    their house to the mini grid. The terms and conditions, designed through a participatory

    planning process, particularly the tariff scheme (see next section), was explained to the villagers

    ought out for customising internal wiring within their houses. High

    quality wires were used in every household to ensure safety.

    The cost of internal wiring was made transparent to the villagers beforehand as they were to

    meet these expenses on their own. A contractor for internal wiring was identified and DA

    facilitated and ensured that the process was carried out smoothly. Villagers were encouraged to

    participate in the construction of the plant so that the earnings they made through labour could

    to meet the expenses of internal wiring.

    FINANCIAL OPERATIONS The cost of commissioning the community solar power plant came to 29.5 lakh. This included

    the cost of civil works, cables, battery, power controlling unit, and setting up the mini grid.

    Individual households had to bear the initial cost for necessary infrastructure such as electrical

    wiring. The VEC collected Rs. 500 as a security deposit from each household seeking the

    electricity connection. Individual households have to pay monthly service charges to the VEC.

    The electricity tariff was based on what villagers were paying for other sources of energy

    (kerosene and batteries). With the support of the VEC and Scatec Solar, Development

    Alternatives developed and implemented a tariff structure comprised of a fixed and variable

    charge; the fixed charge was to recover the replacement cost of the battery, while the variable

    charge was for daily operation and management. At the start, the fixed monthly charge for a

    CFL bulb, fan, and TV was Rs 20, Rs 80 and Rs 90 respectively; the variable charge was Rs 4.50

    nit. Although these tariffs worked initially, villagers gradually started consuming more

    energy by taking up additional lights and fans. The result was an imbalance in demand and

    supply. In order to trace this imbalance and inculcate a sense of effective u

    was collectively decided to introduce a

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Environmental Sustainability

    olar Power Plant Project Jhansi

    January 2011

    7

    from interested villagers before connecting

    their house to the mini grid. The terms and conditions, designed through a participatory

    planning process, particularly the tariff scheme (see next section), was explained to the villagers

    ought out for customising internal wiring within their houses. High

    The cost of internal wiring was made transparent to the villagers beforehand as they were to

    A contractor for internal wiring was identified and DA

    facilitated and ensured that the process was carried out smoothly. Villagers were encouraged to

    participate in the construction of the plant so that the earnings they made through labour could

    The cost of commissioning the community solar power plant came to 29.5 lakh. This included

    the cost of civil works, cables, battery, power controlling unit, and setting up the mini grid.

    astructure such as electrical

    wiring. The VEC collected Rs. 500 as a security deposit from each household seeking the

    electricity connection. Individual households have to pay monthly service charges to the VEC.

    llagers were paying for other sources of energy

    (kerosene and batteries). With the support of the VEC and Scatec Solar, Development

    Alternatives developed and implemented a tariff structure comprised of a fixed and variable

    recover the replacement cost of the battery, while the variable

    charge was for daily operation and management. At the start, the fixed monthly charge for a

    CFL bulb, fan, and TV was Rs 20, Rs 80 and Rs 90 respectively; the variable charge was Rs 4.50

    nit. Although these tariffs worked initially, villagers gradually started consuming more

    energy by taking up additional lights and fans. The result was an imbalance in demand and

    supply. In order to trace this imbalance and inculcate a sense of effective utilisation of energy, it

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    CONSUMPTION BASED TARIFF MODEL

    Consumption (unit/month)

    0-5

    5-10

    10 onwards

    Note: Villagers pay an additional charge (Rs 10 / month / household) per street light

    The revised tariff structure promotes efficient usage of electricity and

    financially sustainable in operations and maintenance. A chart was prepared to explain the

    monthly consumption of electrical units (kWh) so that villagers could calculate their monthly

    bill through a simple meter reading.

    METHODOLOGY

    The OneWorld Governance Knowledge Centre (GKC) team conducts extensive research to

    identify initiatives that contribute towards the betterment of public service delivery in India.

    The Community Solar Power Plant (CSPP) project, with its focus on using an alte

    of energy for the rural poor through an innovative, unique, economically and socially

    sustainable and replicable design, fits the mould of a best practice.

    After establishing CSPP as a best practice, the GKC team conducted thorough seconda

    research using web sources to understand how the initiative works and benefits the people.

    Key stakeholders were identified and interviewed to gain deeper insight into the operations

    and impact of the initiative.

    KEY STAKEHOLDERS

    SCATEC SOLAR: Norway

    complete technology. It installed and commissioned the plant and developed a maintenance

    plan to sustain the plant in the long term (an estimated 20 years).

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Environmental Sustainability

    Community Solar Power Plant Project

    CONSUMPTION BASED TARIFF MODEL

    Fixed tariff

    (Rs./month

    Variable tariff

    (Rs./ unit)

    20

    Rs. 4.5 per unit

    90

    Rs.22.5 + 5.5 per unit

    thereafter

    160

    Rs. 50 + 6.5 per unit

    thereafter

    Note: Villagers pay an additional charge (Rs 10 / month / household) per street light

    The revised tariff structure promotes efficient usage of electricity and

    financially sustainable in operations and maintenance. A chart was prepared to explain the

    monthly consumption of electrical units (kWh) so that villagers could calculate their monthly

    bill through a simple meter reading.

    OneWorld Governance Knowledge Centre (GKC) team conducts extensive research to

    identify initiatives that contribute towards the betterment of public service delivery in India.

    The Community Solar Power Plant (CSPP) project, with its focus on using an alte

    of energy for the rural poor through an innovative, unique, economically and socially

    sustainable and replicable design, fits the mould of a best practice.

    After establishing CSPP as a best practice, the GKC team conducted thorough seconda

    research using web sources to understand how the initiative works and benefits the people.

    Key stakeholders were identified and interviewed to gain deeper insight into the operations

    KEY STAKEHOLDERS

    a solar solutions company that funded and developed the

    complete technology. It installed and commissioned the plant and developed a maintenance

    plan to sustain the plant in the long term (an estimated 20 years).

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Environmental Sustainability

    olar Power Plant Project Jhansi

    January 2011

    8

    Variable tariff

    (Rs./ unit)

    Rs. 4.5 per unit

    Rs.22.5 + 5.5 per unit

    thereafter

    Rs. 50 + 6.5 per unit

    thereafter

    Note: Villagers pay an additional charge (Rs 10 / month / household) per street light

    The revised tariff structure promotes efficient usage of electricity and allows CSPP to be

    financially sustainable in operations and maintenance. A chart was prepared to explain the

    monthly consumption of electrical units (kWh) so that villagers could calculate their monthly

    OneWorld Governance Knowledge Centre (GKC) team conducts extensive research to

    identify initiatives that contribute towards the betterment of public service delivery in India.

    The Community Solar Power Plant (CSPP) project, with its focus on using an alternative source

    of energy for the rural poor through an innovative, unique, economically and socially

    After establishing CSPP as a best practice, the GKC team conducted thorough secondary

    research using web sources to understand how the initiative works and benefits the people.

    Key stakeholders were identified and interviewed to gain deeper insight into the operations

    a solar solutions company that funded and developed the

    complete technology. It installed and commissioned the plant and developed a maintenance

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    STREETS LIT AT NIGHT/ SOURCE:

    DEVELOPMENT ALTERNATIVES GROUP

    role of the project facilitator largely by mobilising the villagers. DA helped in interactions with

    the local administration. DA devised a foolproof plan for gradual transfer of responsibilities to

    the VEC.

    VILLAGE ENERGY COMMITTEE: The ownership of the plant rests with the VEC; this includes

    operation and maintenance of the plant. The VEC was involved in every step of setting up the

    plant right from the planning process, land acquisition, village mobilisatio

    revenue generation. It includes members from all sections of the village community.

    DD SOLAR 23 INDIA PVT. LTD.: A Gurgaon

    DD Solar provided the engineering know

    project on a fixed time-period based

    LESSONS LEARNED IMPROVEMENT IN THE QUALITY OF VILLAGE LIFE

    Economically: The plant has increased the energy

    supply in the village. This increase in power

    supply has enabled villagers to explore

    entrepreneurial ventures and has boosted micro industry.

    Rampura now has flour mills that run on solar

    motors. Activities like sewing, which were earlier done manually, are now carried out

    with the help of electrical machines, thereby saving time and energy and increasing

    productivity.

    Comfortable living conditions: Villagers can now use electrical appliances inc

    solar

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Environmental Sustainability

    Community Solar Power Plant Project

    Flour Mill/ Source: UNDP

    DEVELOPMENT ALTERNATIVES GROUP: an Indian non-profit organisation that played the

    role of the project facilitator largely by mobilising the villagers. DA helped in interactions with

    the local administration. DA devised a foolproof plan for gradual transfer of responsibilities to

    VILLAGE ENERGY COMMITTEE: The ownership of the plant rests with the VEC; this includes

    operation and maintenance of the plant. The VEC was involved in every step of setting up the

    plant right from the planning process, land acquisition, village mobilisatio

    revenue generation. It includes members from all sections of the village community.

    DD SOLAR 23 INDIA PVT. LTD.: A Gurgaon-based electronics company of the Bergen Group,

    DD Solar provided the engineering know-how and was responsible for the execution of the

    period based

    LESSONS LEARNED IMPROVEMENT IN THE QUALITY OF VILLAGE LIFE

    Economically: The plant has increased the energy

    supply in the village. This increase in power

    supply has enabled villagers to explore

    entrepreneurial ventures and has boosted micro industry.

    Rampura now has flour mills that run on solar-powered

    tivities like sewing, which were earlier done manually, are now carried out

    with the help of electrical machines, thereby saving time and energy and increasing

    Comfortable living conditions: Villagers can now use electrical appliances inc

    electrical lights, fans, coolers and engage in entertainment

    activities via the television and radio.

    Improved safety and security: Well

    as a deterrent for mischievous behaviour that may cause

    harm to the villagers life and/or property.

    Increased level of health and hygiene: The usage of

    solar energy has reduced the health hazards caused by kerosene

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Environmental Sustainability

    olar Power Plant Project Jhansi

    January 2011

    9

    Flour Mill/ Source: UNDP

    profit organisation that played the

    role of the project facilitator largely by mobilising the villagers. DA helped in interactions with

    the local administration. DA devised a foolproof plan for gradual transfer of responsibilities to

    VILLAGE ENERGY COMMITTEE: The ownership of the plant rests with the VEC; this includes

    operation and maintenance of the plant. The VEC was involved in every step of setting up the

    plant right from the planning process, land acquisition, village mobilisation, and training and

    revenue generation. It includes members from all sections of the village community.

    based electronics company of the Bergen Group,

    or the execution of the

    tivities like sewing, which were earlier done manually, are now carried out

    with the help of electrical machines, thereby saving time and energy and increasing

    Comfortable living conditions: Villagers can now use electrical appliances including

    electrical lights, fans, coolers and engage in entertainment

    Improved safety and security: Well-lit street lights act

    as a deterrent for mischievous behaviour that may cause

    or property.

    alth and hygiene: The usage of

    energy has reduced the health hazards caused by kerosene

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    stoves. It has also lowered the pollutants in the

    streets lights to discourage open defecation.

    Positive impact on women and children: Due to lights

    women no longer have

    in entertainment activities and develop new skills like sewing and rope making,

    contributes to an increase in their monthly income. School children get 1.2 to 2 hours of

    extra study time in the evenin

    the skills of the students and

    Source: UNDP

    increasing their future opportunities. The solar plant is facilitating regular supply of electricity

    to the primary school in Rampura, easing the hot summer days for the children and increasing

    their rate of attendance.

    ESTIMATING ENERGY REQUIREMENTS

    The load survey carried out prior to setting up the plant helped in identifying the trend for load

    demand. This could be used for other villages as well. The average consumption of each

    household per month is around five to seve

    pilot experience has provided valuable insight into determining the realistic power plant

    capacity, which is very important in making CSPP a financially viable model.

    ON THE FINANCIAL SIDE

    While there is certainly a significant initial investment to consider when replicating this solar

    energy model, the consumption tariff structure ensures financial viability in the long run.

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Environmental Sustainability

    Community Solar Power Plant Project

    stoves. It has also lowered the pollutants in the air. Villagers are building toilets,

    streets lights to discourage open defecation.

    Positive impact on women and children: Due to lights being available

    longer have to finish their household chores in a hurry. They can also engage

    in entertainment activities and develop new skills like sewing and rope making,

    contributes to an increase in their monthly income. School children get 1.2 to 2 hours of

    extra study time in the evenings. Additionally, computer classes have begun, adding to

    the skills of the students and

    Source: UNDP

    increasing their future opportunities. The solar plant is facilitating regular supply of electricity

    to the primary school in Rampura, easing the hot summer days for the children and increasing

    MATING ENERGY REQUIREMENTS

    The load survey carried out prior to setting up the plant helped in identifying the trend for load

    demand. This could be used for other villages as well. The average consumption of each

    household per month is around five to seven units, which increases in the summer season. This

    pilot experience has provided valuable insight into determining the realistic power plant

    capacity, which is very important in making CSPP a financially viable model.

    While there is certainly a significant initial investment to consider when replicating this solar

    energy model, the consumption tariff structure ensures financial viability in the long run.

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Environmental Sustainability

    olar Power Plant Project Jhansi

    January 2011

    10

    Villagers are building toilets, as well

    being available in the evening,

    household chores in a hurry. They can also engage

    in entertainment activities and develop new skills like sewing and rope making, which

    contributes to an increase in their monthly income. School children get 1.2 to 2 hours of

    gs. Additionally, computer classes have begun, adding to

    increasing their future opportunities. The solar plant is facilitating regular supply of electricity

    to the primary school in Rampura, easing the hot summer days for the children and increasing

    The load survey carried out prior to setting up the plant helped in identifying the trend for load

    demand. This could be used for other villages as well. The average consumption of each

    n units, which increases in the summer season. This

    pilot experience has provided valuable insight into determining the realistic power plant

    capacity, which is very important in making CSPP a financially viable model.

    While there is certainly a significant initial investment to consider when replicating this solar

    energy model, the consumption tariff structure ensures financial viability in the long run.

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    Villagers accept this model willingly because it follows the simpl

    pay more. The tariff structure can also be easily replicated.

    IMPORTANCE OF SOCIAL COHESION AND COMMUNITY MOBILIZATION

    While the VEC in Rampura effectively executed the entire project and the village community

    extended their whole hearted support, the case in Gopalpura was different. People in

    Gopalpura were supportive in the beginning; however, gradually problems arose. For example,

    people found it difficult to visit the plant to charge their batteries and lanterns. They

    electricity services at their homes. Social divisiveness also hampered the management and

    operation of the Gopalpura plant. The success of the Rampura model over the Gopalpura one

    stresses the importance of promoting social cohesion.

    LOOKING AHEAD The demand for energy is increasing and therefore, the problem of unmet demand exists. The

    Current irrigation requirements require expansionary steps be taken. Implementers are

    working on addressing this, as well as ensuring that villagers pay bills o

    electricity efficiently so that the needs of the whole village are met. Meanwhile, the success of

    the project has been tremendous and it continues to transform village life.

    Research was carried out by the OneWorld Foundation, Governanc

    Documentation was created by

    For further information, please contact

    REFERENCES Light at night: Community Solar Power Plant, a UNDP case

    Development Alternatives project report to Scatec

    Empowering Villages by Solar Photovoltaic,

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Environmental Sustainability

    Community Solar Power Plant Project

    Villagers accept this model willingly because it follows the simple rule of if you use more, you

    pay more. The tariff structure can also be easily replicated.

    IMPORTANCE OF SOCIAL COHESION AND COMMUNITY MOBILIZATION

    While the VEC in Rampura effectively executed the entire project and the village community

    heir whole hearted support, the case in Gopalpura was different. People in

    Gopalpura were supportive in the beginning; however, gradually problems arose. For example,

    people found it difficult to visit the plant to charge their batteries and lanterns. They

    electricity services at their homes. Social divisiveness also hampered the management and

    operation of the Gopalpura plant. The success of the Rampura model over the Gopalpura one

    stresses the importance of promoting social cohesion.

    EAD The demand for energy is increasing and therefore, the problem of unmet demand exists. The

    Current irrigation requirements require expansionary steps be taken. Implementers are

    working on addressing this, as well as ensuring that villagers pay bills o

    electricity efficiently so that the needs of the whole village are met. Meanwhile, the success of

    the project has been tremendous and it continues to transform village life.

    Research was carried out by the OneWorld Foundation, Governance Knowledge Centre (GKC) team.

    Documentation was created by Research Associate, Sapna Kedia

    r information, please contact Naimur Rahman, Director, OWFI at [email protected]

    Light at night: Community Solar Power Plant, a UNDP case-study

    Development Alternatives project report to Scatec

    Empowering Villages by Solar Photovoltaic, Scatecs case study 11

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Environmental Sustainability

    olar Power Plant Project Jhansi

    January 2011

    11

    e rule of if you use more, you

    IMPORTANCE OF SOCIAL COHESION AND COMMUNITY MOBILIZATION

    While the VEC in Rampura effectively executed the entire project and the village community

    heir whole hearted support, the case in Gopalpura was different. People in

    Gopalpura were supportive in the beginning; however, gradually problems arose. For example,

    people found it difficult to visit the plant to charge their batteries and lanterns. They preferred

    electricity services at their homes. Social divisiveness also hampered the management and

    operation of the Gopalpura plant. The success of the Rampura model over the Gopalpura one

    The demand for energy is increasing and therefore, the problem of unmet demand exists. The

    Current irrigation requirements require expansionary steps be taken. Implementers are

    working on addressing this, as well as ensuring that villagers pay bills on time and use the

    electricity efficiently so that the needs of the whole village are met. Meanwhile, the success of

    e Knowledge Centre (GKC) team.

    [email protected]

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    APPENDIX A -INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

    Mr. Patara, Development Alternatives

    1. What was the need for a solar power plant project in Rampura and Gopalpura? Can you

    describe for us the genesis of the project?

    2. The key stakeholders in the project are Scatec Solar, Development Alternatives an

    23 India Pvt. Ltd. What are their respective roles?

    3. Can you explain to us the procedure of setting up the plants (land procurement, building the

    plant, wiring with individual houses)? How were the villagers mobilized and involved in the

    process?

    4. How does the plant operate both in terms of electricity generation and distribution?(ask for

    diagram if possible)

    5. A Village Energy Committee (VEC) was formed to involve the community. How was this

    committee formed, who are its members, what is its role and how does it conduct its

    operations?

    6. What is the financial model of the project? How is sustainability ens

    7. How is the functioning of the plants monitored?

    8. What are the major achievements of the project and its impact so far?

    9. What were some of the challenges faced in operationalising and running the project? How

    were they overcome?

    10. Are their any enhancements planned for the future?

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Environmental Sustainability

    Community Solar Power Plant Project

    INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

    Mr. Patara, Development Alternatives

    1. What was the need for a solar power plant project in Rampura and Gopalpura? Can you

    describe for us the genesis of the project?

    2. The key stakeholders in the project are Scatec Solar, Development Alternatives an

    23 India Pvt. Ltd. What are their respective roles?

    3. Can you explain to us the procedure of setting up the plants (land procurement, building the

    plant, wiring with individual houses)? How were the villagers mobilized and involved in the

    4. How does the plant operate both in terms of electricity generation and distribution?(ask for

    5. A Village Energy Committee (VEC) was formed to involve the community. How was this

    committee formed, who are its members, what is its role and how does it conduct its

    6. What is the financial model of the project? How is sustainability ensured?

    7. How is the functioning of the plants monitored?

    8. What are the major achievements of the project and its impact so far?

    9. What were some of the challenges faced in operationalising and running the project? How

    10. Are their any enhancements planned for the future?

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Environmental Sustainability

    olar Power Plant Project Jhansi

    January 2011

    12

    1. What was the need for a solar power plant project in Rampura and Gopalpura? Can you

    2. The key stakeholders in the project are Scatec Solar, Development Alternatives and DD Solar

    3. Can you explain to us the procedure of setting up the plants (land procurement, building the

    plant, wiring with individual houses)? How were the villagers mobilized and involved in the

    4. How does the plant operate both in terms of electricity generation and distribution?(ask for

    5. A Village Energy Committee (VEC) was formed to involve the community. How was this

    committee formed, who are its members, what is its role and how does it conduct its

    ured?

    9. What were some of the challenges faced in operationalising and running the project? How


Recommended