Enhancing Natural Resource Management

Progress Report on Solar Energy Management Project in Saltlake No. 12 Slum

Project Overview

The solar panel project by Calcutta Rescue (CR) in the Saltlake No. 12 slum aims to address crucial community needs and bring about transformative outcomes. By installing 20-22V solar panels, 10 households will gain access to lighting during late evenings, allowing extended study hours for students and providing essential relief through fans during extreme summers. The phased installation approach, aligned with funding availability, ensures sustainability and effective implementation.

Household Selection
The selection process for households has been conducting. Criteria were established to identify the most in-need families, prioritizing those with students and elderly members who would benefit the most from improved lighting and cooling solutions. Community leaders and residents were involved in the selection process to ensure transparency and fairness.

Community Capacity Building
As part of the project, CR has focused on community capacity building to ensure long-term success. Training sessions have been conducted to educate residents on the maintenance and optimal use of solar panels. This initiative aims to empower the community with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage and sustain the solar installations effectively.

 Non-Financial Activities
Due to financial constraints, the full implementation of the project has been delayed. However, non-financial activities are actively ongoing. These include community engagement meetings, awareness programs on the benefits of solar energy, and preliminary training sessions on solar panel maintenance. These activities are crucial in preparing the community for the eventual installation and use of the solar panels.

Fundraising Efforts
CR is committed to raising the necessary funds for this noble cause. Efforts to secure additional funding are ongoing, with outreach to potential donors and fundraising campaigns. The community's enthusiasm and the evident need for this project serve as strong motivators for these efforts.

Conclusion
Despite financial challenges, significant progress has been made in preparing the community for the solar panel project in the Saltlake No. 12 slum. The household selection process, capacity-building initiatives, and ongoing non-financial activities lay a solid foundation for the project's future success. With continued fundraising efforts, CR remains hopeful in securing the necessary resources to fully implement this transformative project and bring lasting benefits to the community.