SAHJEEVANS

Renewable Energy Programmes

A LEARNING DOCUMENT

an independent assessment by
year 2005-2006

Mr. Hemant Lamba & Ms. Divya Kapoor

Acknowledgement: Swiss Agency for Development & Cooperation,

Embassy Of Switzerland, Chanakyapuri, Chandragupta Marg, New Delhi-110 021 Mr. Hemant Lamba and Ms. Divya KapoorAssesment done in 2005-2006

Publisher: Sahjeevan
175, Jalaram Society, B/h. Vishwamangal Apartment, Vijaynagar, Bhuj-370 001 Kutch. India ph: +91 2832 251814 fax: +91 2832 251914 email: admin@sahjeevan.org, sahjeevan@gmail.com
This publication is not for sale.

Contents
1. Forward 2. Introduction 3. Methodology and Purpose 4. Situational Analysis for Renewable Energy Intervention in Kutch 5. Case Study on Community Drinking Water Facility at Dador, Nakhtrana 6. Annexure:1. Drinking Water- Diesel and Solar Comparison 7. Case Study on Community Sludge Pump at Sardar Nagar in Bhuj City 8. Case Study on Solar Home Lighting Systems, Lanterns and Street Lights 8a. Table 9. Case Study on Irrigation Pump System at Chandroda, Anjar 9a. Table 10. Annexure:2. Cost Viability of Solar Devices Against Diesel Pump set for Irrigation 11. Case Study on Biomass Gasifiers for Salt Farming and Agricultural Pumps 12. Annexure:3. Introduction to Kutch and Sahjeevan 13. Annexure:4. Aurore, Mr.Hemant Lamba and Ms. Divya Kapoor 14. Annexure:5. Timeline of the RE Programme, Sahjeevan 15. Annexure:6. Table Showing Technical Specifications and Village of Various Technologies Implemented 16. RE Locator Map

FORWARD
If at all there is a chance for inclusion of all the communities and classes in Indias high growth rate, only decentralization and diversity can make it happen. We are far too many with limited natural resources to rely on a narrow spectrum of technologies to provide basic services to all. This is a sustainability dictum that fits Indias diverse ecosystems and with it a diverse community well. It is an economic principle that has served India well in her hey days in the past and is true, much more so, today. Decentralization makes good sense for three important reasons: One the poor do not have to be at the mercy of a trickle down benefit from a centralized service or decision making ; Two it allows for efficient and appropriate solutions to be designed within the ecosystem; Three it allows a diverse set of life styles to co exist. The hegemony of oil as the sole source of energy too is breaking. Tomorrows solutions are not about finding the cheapest source of energy, but about matching energy solutions with the appropriate applications for optimal efficiency. Therefore solar, wind, bio-fuels, oil and many others will find place in tomorrows world. We in Kutch chose to work with solar photo-voltaic for many reasons. Solar photo-voltaic has proven to be a robust, low maintenance technology. Kutch has high solar incidence with very little cloud cover days. Solar photo-voltaic has the potential for use in harsh climatic and public conditions as found in arid Kutch. These robust fundamentals provide the potential for reducing, even eliminating recurring expenditures. There is sufficient research that is underway to believe that nano technology will help increase the efficiency of photo-voltaic cells sufficiently in the near future, to bring down capital costs of equipment. Irrespective of the future reduction in costs our experience has shown that lighting solutions for economic applications with salt farming, fisheries and handicrafts are already bankable. Solar pumps on drinking water wells have strengthened the potential for decentralized governance by Panchayats as there are minimal O&M costs. Initial experiments have shown that small farming, that is fast becoming unviable, can, by replacing diesel pumps be made remunerative. Efficiencies need to be built in at reducing capital costs and introducing drip irrigation and organic premiums into the farming economics. Solar sludge

pumps can allow municipalities to decentralize sewerage management and recycling. We have found that decentralized availability of energy removes barrier and allows development of solutions around decentralized concepts which are not only economically more efficient than conventional solutions but environmentally efficient. All these applications have potential for carbon reduction by replacing diesel (pumps) and kerosene (lamps) and provide impetus for treating sewerage that is a major carbon producer through methane. A decentralized solar pump has given impetus to decentralized drinking water solutions. It avoids the complex drinking water solutions with enormous environmental consequences due to big dams and bore wells currently being pursued in Gujarat. Since this report was put together in 2006, Sahjeevan has implemented a pilot with Government of Gujarat of 5 solar pumps on decentralized wells (also designed by Sahjeevan). Sahjeevan has also carried out viability assessments for government of Gujarat in the hills of Dangs and costal conditions in Saurashtra. This has allowed the government to plan a large program in decentralized drinking water using solar pumps. The kutch kisan sangh (farmers association) has begun putting pressure on the government to provide a subsidy until prices on solar pumps do not come down. All this has been possible become of Swiss Agency for Development Cooperation (SDC) and their consistant and patient support to Sahjeevan. I want to thank Aurore, particularly Hemant Lamba and Tency Beatens for partnering Sahjeevan technically and believing in our approaches. This assessment has helped us crystallize our way forward. Sandeep Virmani
Executive Secretary

Sahjeevan
2008, March

INTRODUCTION
Sahjeevan has been sensitive to clean energy issues since inception. The work started during the early years with interventions in area of smokeless chullas (stoves) for cooking and biogas tanks. It was restricted to creating awareness, organising demonstrations and providing training. In 2002, a larger initiative was started by setting up the renewable energy cell in Sahjeevan. Partnership was established with other experienced partners like Auroville Renewable Energy (AuroRE) located in Auroville and several vendors and suppliers of RE technologies. In the past 3 years Sahjeevan has gained extensive experience with varied applications of solar energy like solar PV pumps, solar lanterns, solar PV home lights, and solar PV street lights. Since December 2005 Sahjeevan has initiated a programme in Biomass Gasifier applications. Apart from technologies, effort has been put to set up an effective delivery mechanism. To remove the high cost barrier several models of deliveries like renting lights & pumps or selling on hire purchase have been tried. The learnings have been shared with local government and communities through interactions, meetings, seminars, training programmes and exhibitions. Sahjeevan has positioned itself as a technology and energy service provider with an effective role in advocacy with government to bring a long lasting change in lives of people and the environment. Sahjeevan focuses on RE applications that can make a difference in the quality of life and incomes of the most marginalized sections of society. The management of the RE programme is centrally coordinated at Sahjeevan. The RE team comprises of a team leader, and three members providing administrative and technical support. The Team collaborates with Setus1, Sangathans2, government departments, and directly with farmers. Presently Sahjeevan is in the position of up scaling some of the applications for which the foundations have been laid through a demonstration and consolidation phase. At this stage after 3 years of work Sahjeevan felt that a review of its RE programmes would help strategize its next phase. Aurore was asked by Sahjeevan to conduct a detailed evaluation to identify the gaps in its current program and further areas of intervention, expansion and strengthening future direction for the work.
1

Setus Sangathans -

Local bridging groups supported by kutch Nav nirman Abhiyan called Setus (bridges) to provide inter phase to different NGOs with local communiites Local womens collective working on various issues in 4 blocks of district

METHODOLOGY AND PURPOSE

Divya Kapoor & Hemant Lamba from Aurore visited select sites along with Sahjeevans key resource persons. This assessment comprised of interviews, formal and informal discussions with the management, energy team and end users during this short trip. Records like service reports, account statements and calculation sheets were provided as support documents. The study was not intended to be a detailed survey. However, the intention was to gather enough information to evaluate the current programme and provide suggestions for future directions.

SITES VISITED
Village Dador, Block Nakhatrana for a solar drinking water pump installation Village Wajira, Block Nakhatrana for home solar lighting systems and lanterns. Sardar Nagar Bhuj city for sludge pump run by solar energy. Village Sanjot Nagar, Block Bhuj for Solar lighting initiatives.

SOME OF THE AREAS THE TEAM FOCUSED

The appropriateness of the technical solution for the applications The social integration of technical solutions Sales and service Capacity of RE team in Sahjeevan The potential for replication and integration with the market
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Situational Analysis for Renewable Energy Intervention in Kutch

Kutch is the second largest district in India with a total area of 45652 sq km. It occupies 23% of the total area of the State of Gujarat. The Tropic of Cancer passes through this district, which guarantees maximum exposure to sunlight round the year. The average annual rainfall of district is 330 mm. It only rains a few days per year, (15 days on average). Kutch has a semi-arid type of climate and counts for 60 per cent of the semi-arid tract in Gujarat. Temperature ranges from 45 degrees centigrade in the summer to two degrees in winter. Kutch is a drought-prone district with 2-3 droughts every 5 years. This geographical position coupled with other socio- economic, political and natural resources constraints make the proposition of experimenting with solar power very appealing. Below mentioned are some of the solar and gasification potential applications that solve the problems:

ISSUES RELATING TO SUSTAINABLE DRINKING WATER:

Kutchi identity is moulded around water, or the lack of it. Villagers across the length and breadth of the district say that the lack of water is the cause of their misery, the depopulated villages and mass migrations out of Kutch. The Government has been promoting the concept of Narmada waters being brought to Kutch through the Sardar Sarovar Project. Water and Sanitation Management Organisation is another initiative of the Government to implement water distribution systems in the villages, which will be augmented with the Kutch SSP. Through interventions of various agencies, the communities are realizing that the waters cannot remain a free commodity now and are increasingly opening to the idea of community management of these resources, the source and the system, in the operations and management.
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Sahjeevan has been promoting that each village should have its own independent source of Drinking water managed by the womens Pani Samiti of the Panchayat. Since most of these independent schemes are operated on diesel, the recurring costs are too high and so the village does not want to operate the scheme, continuing its dependence on centralized management systems of the GWSSB. Therefore the potential of a solar pump was tried which would bring down the recurring costs and create the potential of Panchayats taking responsibility for running the schemes

ISSUES IN HOME LIGHTINGS:

After the earthquake rehabilitation was completed, some villages were relocated and several villages were divided into 3-5 hamlets (vandhs), which are 2-10 km. away from their original villages. The task of building the houses was simpler but this rearrangement has left many habitations without basic services like road, water and electricity. Although the Government has plans to electrify all villages, these areas may not be covered under extension of grid electricity due to low viabilities.
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Sahjeevan is facilitating the communities to adopt the solar technology based lighting systems. The communities were provided customized solutions to the lighting needs like lanterns, jugnus; street lights etc. on rental model, currently these systems are being utilized by the community on a hire purchase model.

ISSUES IN SUSTAINING MARGINALIZED LIVELIHOODS:

Salt pan works: Kutch accounts for 60% of total salt production in India. Along the edges of the Rann, several small and large salts manufactures lease out land to the Agarias (salt worker) who produce land, pump out salt water using diesel pumps and prepare salt. The lessors then purchase the salt at a rate of Rs. 50/- per tonne. This is an exploitative industry where the Agariya is barely able to make enough money to make ends meet. In Adesar area on an average one plot of 10 acres can produce 1500 2000 tons of salt per season of 7-8 months. A study conducted by the Adesar Setu3 in 2003 reveals that a salt farmer Agariyo is incuring 50% of his production cost on diesel alone to pump brine onto of the salt pans. The Agariyas utilize kerosene lamps during night in their bunker type settlements leading to congestion of fumes in the houses, causing respiratory tract disorders. Sahjeevan is piloting an experiment with a biomass based gasifier which may replace the diesel and improve the earnings of the Agarias. Fisheries: Kutch has a long coastline in the Gulf of Kutch. Several small fishermen leave their villages to live and work off the sea front referred to as (Danga), for most part of the year. The womenfolk use kerosene/diesel for their lighting requirements. Sahjeevan studied the usage patterns and came up with solar lighting solutions for the user groups. These lighting products have been made accessible to the group through co-ordination with credit lending mechanisms. Handicrafts: Kutch has a rich tradition in Handicrafts. Several NGOs and the Gujarat State Handicraft Development Corporation (GSHDC)
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have in the past 15-20 years made Kutch handicrafts well known in India and abroad. For the women who do embroidery, selling their craft is a recent development. As agriculture and animal breeding has been adversely affected by droughts and policies, the household income is being supplemented by selling their craft products. These women work on the designs needing intricate detailing, after completing the household responsibilities, in the flickering light of kerosene lamps. Sahjeevan has intervened through making available solar lighting systems for artisan groups, aiding not only an increase in economic returns, but also arresting loss of sight. Irrigated farming: Most of the farmers depend on monsoons for cultivation. The farmers reliance on either diesel or electrical pump sets to pump ground water is already affecting the ground water levels and quality. Moreover, the electricity grid neither covers all the areas nor is reliable, the farmers use diesel, which then results in very low profits. The cost of connecting a new pumping system with GEB electrification is extremely high Rs. 80,000 to 1,50,000 (US$ 2000 to 3000) besides technical and non-technical losses in transmission and distribution and therefore, not viable for small farming. The input costs in farming using diesel pumps makes small farming unviable. As per Agriculture Action Plan (2004) farmers in the area of shallow ground water are spending an average 32.84% as water charges. After labor, this is the second highest cost towards the farming production system. In order to make small farming viable in the long run, Sahjeevan has promoted the solar technology based lifting devices for irrigation. Studies were conducted with regard to cropping patterns and water requirement for each crop. The farmers were also educated on ideal cropping patterns and use of efficient technologies like drip irrigation.

Adesar Setu has been supporting the salt pan workers in addressing issues of better standards of living and work place for the past three years. 8

Case Study on Community Drinking water Facility at Dador, Nakhatrana

CASE PERSPECTIVE/BACKGROUND
Drinking water in a semi-arid and desert is a precious resource. A substantial amount of time, human energy and money is spent in collection of water. In Kutch, as elsewhere in the country, the responsibility of supplying drinking water rests with the state government. Despite most of the villages being connected to the water grid, people still have uncertainties in their mind about the reliability of the water supply system. The Government has set up an agency called Water and Sanitation Management Organisation (WASMA), which undertakes implementation of water distribution and storage systems at the village and upgradation and repairs of community drinking water wells.
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Considering all these issues in sustainable drinking water supply, Sahjeevan has been advocating for decentralized drinking water schemes for villages. The programme propounds that every village in Kutch can become self reliant for its drinking water needs, operate and manage the systems by itself. Geo-hydrology of Kutch shows that in the regions where there is shallow ground water, recharging structures can prove to be of great help. Aquifer management is another growing area which needs to be strategised for making every village self reliant and governed in its own drinking water needs. Sahjeevans experiences in Kutchs eco-restoration began with addressing the issue of developing sustainable sources of drinking water at the village level. Interactions with the rural experts and geo-hydrological studies helped in the site selection for implementation of the drinking water programmes. Initiatives began at Khari and Dador villages. Appropriate Community mobilization steps ensured that the community owned the source and the system & developed norms for its maintenance and operations. Initially, diesel engines were used to lift water, but were proving to be expensive and the yield was low. Diesel was also a non renewable source of energy, and Sahjeevans organisational mandate did not encourage dependence on such a fuel. Also, frequent electricity failures could not ensure lifting enough water to meet the drinking water needs. Alternatives were sought and the answer came in the form of using solar power for lifting water. In 2001 Sahjeevan started working on providing a viable alternative pumping system based on uses of solar PV technology. The objectives of this prototype programme were: To field test a solar PV water pumping system for drinking water application. To create awareness and confidence among the community towards a renewable source of energy. To build a participatory community management system for effective maintenance of the system. To demonstrate viability of an alternative source to the government for further replication. Solar pumps were procured (under subsidy from the Government) in 2001 and installed at Dador and Kuran (due to some intra village conflict, the pump was not installed at Khari as planned). The community members were skeptical about the yield of water as the solar pump
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was of 0.75 HP as compared to 10 HP diesel pumps, which was not able to provide the needed yield. Soon, the solar pump proved itself against all odds, with higher yield and a decrease in expenditure. All it needed was somebody who can align the direction of the solar panels twice a day in accordance to the movements of the sun. Table 1 which is provided as annexure gives a detailed statement of the financial viability of community managed pumps. The contribution per household per month can be derived as less as Rs. 27/-. (See Annexure 3 for assumptions and details.) Under this programme 2 systems were installed one in Kuran village and other in Dador. As in Dador, the pump in Kuran, too, got accepted by the communities, Sodha Darbars and Harijans. Community started paying the user charges and monitoring mechanisms were worked out. At some point, some households of Harijan community shifted to a hamlet and asked Sahjeevan for a water storage tank. After a lot of deliberations with the community and at the organisational level, Sahjeevan decided to decline this request, as each of the two community had already storage tanks in the village. This led to dissent in the community. Sahjeevan decided to withdraw the intervention from the village and the pump was transferred for farming application. Dador village has attained drinking water security by reviving the traditional sources of water in the village. Dador already had a relationship with KMVS through a womens saving programme. An effective Mahila Mandal (women collective) was functional. This provided a strong community management and participation of women. The village used to get its drinking water from a pipeline which was laid in 1986, but could get water for only 3 days a week. For the remaining days, they relied heavily on the irregular tankers. The women had to fetch water from nearby village of Vang at a distance of 3 kms. The planning and implementation for the programme was participative, where the end users were decision makers, actual implementers and exercised great control over water utilization pattern in the village. The villagers were involved in the process of searching for water right from the beginning, Sarabai Ibrahim, a member of the Village water committee, fondly recalls that they used to accompany the geologist from Sahjeevan, Mr. Yogesh Jadeja in his field trips for collection of various rock samples. This was an enriching experience for both the organisation and the

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village, where each benefited from each others perspectives: of geo-hydrological understanding and ability to appreciate the wisdom of the traditional water sources. The water committee members recount that earlier, when there was acute water shortage, the people thought that there is no underground water and they were all for the alternative (though erratic) solutions like pipeline and tankers. After studies, it was established that Dador has immense potential in attaining drinking water security, because of excellent aquifers. Site was selected and digging started. The well digging was a shared task in the village. Each household contributed at least one weeks labour for digging. The water was found at the depth of 90 feet. Encouraged by this experiment, some of the community members were able to revive an old well near the fields, which can be used for irrigation purposes for four months after the monsoons. Once the well had enough water to fulfil the drinking water and water for other purposes needs, a motor was fitted for drawing water. The source of power was not electricity as in rural areas, electricity supply is highly irregular: the alternative was the installation of Solar panels for the purpose.

TECHNICAL PARAMETERS
The solar pumping system has 1800 Wp solar modules from Tata-BP and a 0.75 HP AC submersible pump and inverter from Grundfos. Solar panels are mounted on a manual tracking system. Submersible pump is installed in a bore well with 30 meters suction head. Water is supplied through a 4 inches PVC pipe to a water tank located 1.8 KM from the well. There is a gradient of 14 meters from the well to the tank. Total head from the pump to the tank is more then 47 meters. The installation was observed at foundations of the array, interconnections, inverter installation, fencing and piping. All parameters followed the guidelines prescribed for such an installation. The long distance of 1.8 KM is between the well is taken care by over sizing the pipe diameter. This long distance for relatively small pump is unique. Considering that before a 10 HP diesel pump was not able to do the job this site is a good model of a technical viability of solar PV pumps.

SOCIAL, ORGANIZATION & ECONOMICS

A water management committee is formed by the Mahila Mandal. This committee has a bank account. Every household has to pay Rs. 3 per person per month towards the maintenance of the system. A local handicap youth is employed to maintain the pump. The job involves daily switching of the pump, inspecting for pipe leakages, cleaning of the solar panels, changing direction of array three times a day, repairing minor faults and interfacing with Sahjeevan staff for major repairs. The present system of collection assumes that the cost of the equipment is subsidies. Normally the cost of infrastructure is paid by the state. In this case Sahjeevan has provided funds to acquire the asset. In future it is assumed that state will get confidence in the technology and will invest in the asset procurement. Communitys responsibility is to maintain the asset and pay for the minor repairs. This arrangement ensures the ownership of the asset by the community. Social acceptance of this system has been high in Dador village. In Kuran, the pump had to be taken back because there was not a very effective community system in place. Whereas in Dador the village has kept the pump and pays monthly water charge even after there is an extension of pipe line from the government. According to Haku ben, who is leader of the women collective Water from government may come and go but we can rely on the sun always
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FUTURE PILOT PROGRAM RECOMMENDATION

This intervention has successfully demonstrated the robustness of the technology and high user preference. This pilot can be further increased for 10 to 20 villages. Possibilities should be explored for a tie-up with existing programmes of WASMO. Successful demonstration with local government programme would result in replication in other parts of the state and country. In the next phase sites with high visibility like temples, mosque, schools, cattle farm and tourist sites should also be considered.

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Annexure: 1

DRIKING WATER DIESEL AND SOLAR COMPARISON

Village No of Households Population Source of Water Depth of Well Depth of the Pump installed Total Head for the lifting water No of Storage Tanks Drinking Water Requirement Length of Distribution Line Sr. No. Details Dador 104 500 Open Well with small bore well 90 feet (28 meters) 88 feet (27 meters) 47 meters 04 20,000 liters 1800 meters Diesel Pumping System (10HP) Year 2001 21000 51840.00 6560.00 14400.00 58.00 Solar Pumping System (0.75HP) Year 2001 175000* 0.00 425.00 14400.00 26.00

1 2 a b c 3

Investment Cost Recurring Cost Fuel Cost per Year @ Rs. 16/liter Repair and Maintenance Cost/year Operator Cost/year Lifecycle Cost per month/family

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Subsidized cost of Solar Pump under scheme of Ministry of NonConventional Energy Sources, Government of Inida during the year of 2001.
Assumption: Diesel Pump: Solar Pump: Fuel Consumption: Repairing Cost: Salary of Operator: Life Time 8 - 10 years more then 10 years 3 liters/hour and 3 hours of operation per day Approximately Rs. 800/year and Oil and transportation cost: Rs. 5760/ year Rs. 1200/month

Case Study on Community Sludge Pump at Rehab Colony, Sardar Nagar in Bhuj City
CASE PERSPECTIVE/BACKGROUND
In urban and rural communities waste water treatment is one of the most challenging and neglected area. Normally in suburbs of small towns and in most rural communities there is no method community based waste management system. While doing post earthquake housing rehabilitation in Bhuj, Hunnarshala realized an opportunity to introduce community managed waste water treatment plant. They approached Sahjeevan to provide a solar pumping solution to manage pumping requirements of the treatment plant. A decentralized waste water treatment (DEWATS) was constructed for 260 houses. To pump sludge a specially designed solar pump was installed. Normally the treatment plants have a high running cost in form of electricity bill for pumps, motors and filters. In DEWATS system waste water from toilets, kitchens and bathrooms is treated naturally by using settling tanks, natural sand/ gravel filtration and further cleansing by aeration and plants. The only pumping required is to pump sludge into settling tanks. This integration is high investment cost in the beginning but cost less to maintain. As in drinking water normally it is expected the government puts investment in such an infrastructure. In this case Hunnarshala provided resources for installation and one year maintenance of the system. This plant was installed in 2004. Objectives of this project were: Designing a solar pump suitable for pumping sludge water. Increase potential uses of solar pumps by using it in a waste water treatment system in a suburban environment. Reduce cost of operation of a treatment plant. Build community participation in the maintenance of the asset.

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TECHNICAL PARAMETERS
The solar pumping system has 1800 Wp solar modules from BHEL and a 2 HP centrifugal sludge pump. Solar panels are mounted on a manual tracking system. Sludge pump is installed on the sludge tank with 5 meters suction head. Sludge is pumped and pushed into settling tanks of the DEWATS system located about 300 meters from the pump room. Black water is pumped through a 3 inches PVC pipe. Total head from the pump to the tank is 10 meters. From technical perspective this is a very unique installation. Before this project there were no DC sludge pumps available in the market. Sahjeevan took a challenge of making a DC motor for sludge pump. A regular DC motor from Rotmag was taken to power a sludge pump supplied by Prakash Pump in Ahmedabad. The successful running of this pump has opened up doors for applications in other parts of the country. Also it demonstrated high technical capabilities of the Sahjeevan team. Other areas of installation like foundations of the array, interconnections, switches, installation, fencing and piping were of high standards. All parameters followed the guidelines prescribed for such an installation.

SOCIAL, ORGANIZATION & ECONOMICS

The system is presently being managed by Hunnarshala. All the houses in the proposed location have not been occupied. The maintenance costs are being borne by the project promoters. The community collection system is already put in place. A local operator is staying on site. The maintenance of the system is being well taken care of. This project should remain under close supervision to oversee the challenge of handing over the site to the community. Likewise in drinking water scheme community is going to pay a participation fee in a common pool of funds. These funds would be utilized to pay the operator and other minor repair costs.

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LEARNINGS
New application use Demonstrative

CONCLUSION:
From the technical perspective this project is a big success. This contributed in perhaps the first solar run sludge pump in the country. A successful demonstration would open up a large application area for solar PV technology. This project needs to be properly documented and the site should use for demonstration. Similar organisations dealing with DEWATS technology should encourage to use solar. Hunnarshala and Sahjeevan could offer consultancy and advisory services to the network partners of DEWATS in India. Hunnarshala should also promote use of such pumps among its own clientele for DEWATS.
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Case Study Solar Home Lighting Systems, Lanterns and Street Lights
CASE PERSPECTIVE/BACKGROUND
Gujarat state has most extensive rural electrification programme in the country. All villages are claimed to be connected to the state electricity grid. Unlike many rural areas in India, the supply of electricity is reliable. Despite the high rate of success, still there are pockets of darkness existing in remote villages and hamlets of Kutch region. In most of the cases people rely on kerosene as the main source of lighting and batteries for radios and torch lights. The lighting is poor and insufficient in most of the cases. There are no means to get connectivity for telephone or television.
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These pockets of dark zones are spread all across the district. These areas are either remote or are not listed as habitations in government records. The people living in these conditions are cattle grazers, artisans, fishermen and salt pan workers. The population of the settlements is small and is usually spread. A large part of income is spent on basic lighting in form of kerosene. There is a government programme to distribute kerosene at subsidized rates. Each family is entitled for 10 litres of kerosene. In most cases people have to buy more kerosene from open market @ Rs. 25 per litre. In this context, there is ample scope to experiment with various solar based lighting systems. There is an inherent simplicity in the technology- it is mobile and is pared down to just one point connection- guarantees light for at least 4 hours daily (depending on the system and the solar charge) and makes the user, responsible. Sahjeevan started a solar lighting programme in 2003 with the following objectives. To remove drudgery of living in dark homes. To provide home lighting to the marginalized livelihood groups, thus increasing their economic opportunities and returns. To establish the organization as an energy service provider. Mayapatti and Lakdawandh are two un-electrified hamlets under the jurisdiction of Shanpar Group Panchayat in the Nilpar Setu cluster. After demonstrations and discussions, the community prioritised purchasing of two solar panels to set up Solar Power Charging Station (one each for the two hamlets) under the Village Development Fund programme4 of the Setu. The implementation committee decided that these panels will provide battery charging facilities for Kisan brand torches as well as charging for solar lanterns. Sahjeevan is providing technical support, whereas the committee will be responsible for norming, operation and maintenance of the panels. To make these panels cost centres, the committee has decided to charge the users subscription fee as well as nominal usage fee. Sanjotnagar village is a relocated village near Rudramata dam in Bhuj Block. The community largely comprises of leather artisans, some of whom produce high end products. One of the issues they faced after relocation was lack of electricity. Sahjeevan supported this community in setting up various solar lighting systems like street lights, solar lanterns and Jugnus. This meant that even after the sunset, they could continue with the production activities, meet vendor deadlines and earn higher margins.
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Energy requirements of fish workers and salt pan workers and how differntial how credit packages have been worked out for different user groups needs to be mentioned. Community Artisan Agariyas Fishermen Purpose of Lighting Domestic Handicraft Domestic Salt Work Domestic Sorting of Fish Boat Lighting Hours / Day 3-4 1 3-4 1 3-4 8 (9 nights/month) 11 (18nights/month) Existing Pattern of Use Kerosene Lamp Kerosene Lamp Kerosene Lamp Kisan Torch Kerosene Lamp/ Petromax Kerosene Lamp/ Petromax Petromax/ Kisan Torch / Dynamo 360.00 150.00 Cost/ Month Rs. 45-150 200 112.00

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TECHNICAL PARAMETERS
In this programme mainly three types of systems have been used: Solar lanterns Solar Home lighting kits Street Lights Solar lanterns have been procured from different vendors like Ritika Systems, Tata-BP Solar and Vimal Electronics. Essentially these systems are from Ritika because Tata-BP and Vimal are buying kits from Ritika. These solar lanterns have a 10 Watt solar panel, 7 Ah sealed maintenance free (SMF) battery, 7 Watt CFL lamp, electronics and a portable housing. The main failures in these lanterns were reported on the switch and batteries. The batteries have been giving up within 1 to 2 years. Normally these lanterns are designed to give 3 to 4 hours of lighting. Once people got used to high quality lighting they wanted longer duration of working. This resulted in higher stress on the battery. To avert this situation a small change has been introduced. Instead of a 7 Watt CFL lamp now there is a 5 Watt CFL lamp. Customers have accepted this compromise of lower light intensity versus longer working hours. Solar home lights are provided in more affluent homes among the rural poor. These system have a 12 Watt solar panel, 30 Ah flooded battery, solar charge controller and 2 Nos 7 Watt CFL lamps. All of these systems have been procured from Tata-BP Solar under the brand name of Jugnu (fire fly). There has not been a very widespread installation of these systems. The main reason is high cost. There are not many people in the villages who can afford such a system. These systems have worked relatively trouble free. Solar Street lights were installed mainly for community purpose like in large family courtyards, mosques and small roads. Each street light has 1 X 75 Wp solar panels, 1 x 110 Ah flooded tubular battery and charge controller, 11 Watt CFL lamp, weather proof casing for the lamp, battery box, pole and foundation. This product had maximum technical problems. The main problems were faced in the electronics. There was a high rate of failure of charge regulators and lamp electronics. Most of these systems were installed in public places. These lights were supposed to work dusk to dawn automatically. This advance feature became a problem in some cases as people used to sleep outdoors and were not used to high intensity light at night and there was no on/off switch.
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SOCIAL, ORGANIZATION & ECONOMICS

The solar program began with a concept of establishing an energy service provider. In several programmes, NGOs provided free of cost systems to the end user. The Government had already subsidised these systems to make it an affordable choice. The focus was on always providing an asset. As soon as there was even a minor failure there was no one available to provide servicing. Learning from this experience Sahjeevan decided to provide a lighting service by collecting a monthly fee. This model would ensure that the equipment is kept in top condition otherwise there would be no rental and that would affect the cash flows of the organisation. The energy unit of Sahjeevan was expected to keep itself running from the revenue of these rentals. This experiment was tried by introducing solar lanterns, home lighting kits and street lights in Vajira, Sanjot Nagar and Dador villages. The rent value was fixed on the basis of the expenditure on kerosene. Each household was spending on average Rs. 45-150 per month on kerosene. By collecting this amount as rent it was expected that the cost of equipment and services would be recovered in 3 years. This model was expected to be on a full cost recovery with only interest cost considered as subsidy. The following table shows the rentals worked out in the initial phases: Appliances Solar Lantern Home Light System (2 light point) Home Light System (2 light point & 1 fan) Street Light Cost Rs. 4500 7500 26000 27000 Rent Rs. 60/month 90/month 125/month 130/month

There was quick learning from this experiment. First learning was that people using the system did not have any ownership. This resulted in abuse of the equipment resulting in high service cost to Sahjeevan. The collection of rent posed a lot of difficulty and resulted into high cost to the unit. The observations made in the period revealed that the people pay up double or triple the amount of rent as penalty for late payments, which established the need for the lighting. Another observation was that since Sahjeevan was paying for the repairs and maintenance, people had started misusing the equipments, and moving the equipments from the village to their place of work which posed security problems.
26

After a year of operating in rental mode Sahjeevan decided to change the strategy from rental to leasing. Computations have revealed the following: Sr. No. Particulars EMI if product given to augment livelihood opportunities 330/- (@15% RoI repayed over 15 months) NA EMI if product given as a basic facility 217/- (@ 15% RoI repayed over 24 months) 338/- (@5% RoI repayed over 60 months)

Solar lanterns

HLS 40

Knowing that the asset will become their own after one or two years, owners started treating the same equipment with more care. It was also decided to charge for servicing. These two steps reduced the service calls and equipment was found in most of the cases in good condition. There was difference observed due to cultural differences in the communities. In artisan community solar lights were treated more respectfully than in the grazing community. Future programmes are going to be based on the leasing model. Different types of solar lighting kits depending upon the requirement of the community would be sold on hire purchase or leasing. These programmes would be linked with local network of micro credit delivery channels of KMVS. These programmes are being extended now to the fishermen community and salt farming communities. There was a high rate of success in systems which were owned individually by householders. The failures were experienced in the community owned assets like street lights. The rentals or lease payments were not easy to come in joint ownership based systems. In some cases people were not happy with the lights. Street lights either provided more light than required or it was too bright. Only in cases where it is used by a one large joint family these street lights are serving a purpose. Conclusions for future direction in delivery mechanism, product variety and improvement
27

This programme has reached a certain maturity. As this programme was not based on any subsidy it has a high potential of expansion. The only need would be capital and linkage with credit. This programme has the capacity to become a profit centre. Either Sahjeevan or any other sister organisation could promote a lighting service provider on a commercial basis. This could be a unit of Sahjeevan or a new organisation. It could be also a division of Hunnarshala to begin with and then carved into a separate company. The feedback from the users of all the home lighting system was Need more number of light points Lighting for longer hours Other uses like mobile phone charging and TV One portable light torch or lantern This observation follows a normal trend of users moving up in comfort ladder once getting used to a better lighting solution. Solar lantern is a good starting block but it soon has to move over to provide upgraded services. There is also a need to introduce micro solar lighting kits. These kits will be able to provide a combination of lights by using CCFL and LED lights. Multiple points with different intensity of lights would offer more customer satisfaction. The affordability of the users is very critical. The system should be priced between a solar lantern and a 2 light kit (Jugnu). The fishermen, salt farming and artisan communities draw highest amount of economic benefit out of these systems. In artisan community a light in the evening is able to provide Rs.15 per day of additional income. For fishing community it results in saving of Rs.25 per day of kerosene consumed by the petromax light used while sorting the post harvest fish. This additional income can be used for paying higher lease rentals. Similarly salt farm workers use kerosene and batteries for lighting. This expenditure could be used for paying the lease rental. Some more technical experiments like battery charging station could be tried. A bank of batteries could be charged at a single source. This would open possibility of promoting local

28

entrepreneurs. These small energy businesses would install solar panels and charge batteries on a fixed charge basis. Like a gas bottle, empty batteries would be brought to the energy shop and a filled battery will be delivered. For outdoor lighting smaller lights which are less expensive could be explored. A light point on outside wall of the house powered by the home lighting pack will also solve some of the problems. To expand the market size other users who would be amiable in adopting solar energy should also be explored. These users could be relatively prosperous rural communities or institutions. Once the delivery channel is established other products like energy efficient lighting systems and solar water heaters could be introduced.

29

Case Study on Irrigation Pump System at Chandroda, Anjar

CASE PERSPECTIVE/BACKGROUND
Farm sector in India is divided in two parts; rain fed cropping and irrigated agriculture. Water for irrigation is lifted mainly through electric or diesel pumps. The electricity supplied in most cases is highly subsidised and usually the availability is erratic. Diesel pumps are in operations where there is no or unreliable electricity supply. Coupled with decreasing land holdings, diesel costs command a sizeable ratio of the total production costs. By one estimate Rs.45,000 to Rs.60,000/- per annum is spent on diesel to irrigate 5 to 8 acres of farming. Due to the rising diesel prices small farming is increasingly becoming unviable. Ministry of Non conventional Energy Sources (MNES) commissioned the solar water pumping programme from 1993 to 2003. Sahjeevan conducted a farming viability survey in all talukas of Kutch (except Gandhidham and Lakhpat). Various crops were studied vis--vis the water requirements and the duration of the season, and calculations were worked out. Annexure 2 gives detailed computations of solar pumps vis--vis diesel operated pumps for the crop of Castor. After ascertaining the viability of solar based pumps in the Kutchs farming sector, exposures were organized to the villages where solar powered drinking water pumps were set up. The members for exposures were Setu team members, staff from Sangathans, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kutch Kisan Sangh etc. For agriculture the lifting device should be independent from the external sources or dependent on renewable sources. It should give maximum output at the time when water requirements are the highest. The SPV pumping system fits into the above criteria perfectly. The system provides the highest out put during the summer when agriculture requires maximum power to lift water. A SPV Water Pumping System is available with photo voltaic array capacity in the range of 200 watts to 2250 watts. These are used on open wells, bore wells, tanks and canals. Normally, an area of 1.2 to 3 ha can be irrigated by different SPV pump sets.
31

The major advantages are: It is environment friendly as it does not require fuel or electricity. There is no noise and pollution from these pumps sets. Nominal maintenance costs and no operational cost. Diversity in pumping power gives the flexibility to choose the most appropriate one for differing underground water tables. It is not affected by erratic or no power supply or by increasing diesel costs. For a comparative analysis, refer to annexure 2. Under the MNES programme, Sahjeevan collaborated with AuroRE to bring solar pumps to Kutch. A financial package was arranged to leverage the subsidy and soft loans available from Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) through a leasing company. The cost of system was reduced from Rs.3, 92,000/- to Rs.1, 20,000/-. The objectives of this programme were: to to to to to improve the viability of small scale farming. test the technical viability of solar pumps generate awareness among farming community about a viable alternative replace fossil fuel based pumping to cleaner technology establish a financial model for widespread dissemination

A brief profile of the farmers identified to be partners in the pumping system will be appropriate here.

TECHNICAL PARAMETERS:
In Kutch region, there are two zones with varied situation in water table. In the wet zone or green zone water table is higher within 10 to 20 meters and in dry zone water tables goes down to 50 to 100 meters. To meet the requirements of the users in these zones, two types of pumps (centrifugal and submersible) were selected. The centrifugal pumps consisted of an 1800 Wp solar panels, 2 HP DC centrifugal pumps, manually operated tracking structure, electrical connections, pipes, fittings and civil works. The submersible pump consisted of an 1800 Wp solar array, 0.75 HP AC submersible pump, 1500 watt inverter, manual tracking structure, electrical connections, pipes, fittings and civil works.
32

SOCIAL, ORGANIZATION & ECONOMICS

There is a widespread use of diesel engines in Kutch region. Initially it was very difficult for Sahjeevan to generate interest among farming community. The efforts were met with resistance and scepticism. Few progressive farmers agreed to start the experiment. In due course, the news of success reached to other farmers which created more interest among farming community in solar pumps. Sahjeevan conducted exposure trips for stakeholders (NGOs and farmers) who may be able to promote or adopt this new technology. The technology was also exhibited at various local fares to create enthusiasm for the technology. Now there is hardly any farmer in Kutch region who would not be aware of a solar water pumping solution. To make the scheme viable attractive financial packages were worked out and norms for cropping were developed. Ideally solar pumps should be used with efficient irrigation methods. Farmers were exposed to modern irrigation practices like drip irrigation, encourage building channels and divide the farm into smaller plots. This system ensured that smaller pump could cover larger area of plantation. Farmers were encouraged to construct storage tanks which could store water being drawn through the solar powered pumps. It was found from initial surveys that farmers would be hesitant to pay the subsidized price of Rs.1,20,000 for a centrifugal pump and Rs.1,65,000 for a submersible pump. At this time, the Financial Institutions were also new to the concept and hesitant to introduce an appropriate credit package. Sahjeevan developed a rental system for the solar pumps. Eight farmers were identified to pilot test the solar system and the rental model. Interactions revealed that these eight farmers were expending approximately Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 36,000 for the fuel and maintenance of 5 HP Diesel Engine to irrigate 5 to 7 acres of land. The rent was decided on the basis of the subsidized cost of the system, replacement/repairing of parts & insurance for ten years. The rent was Rs. 6600/four months & Rs. 9200/four months for surface pump & submersible pump respectively. It took about a year to convince the farmers about the technical and financial viability of the system. There were some drop outs also from the initial bunch. More than 80% farmers remained connected to the scheme. In 2005 farmers were offered to pay a one time payment and
34

transfer the system in there own name. 90% of the farmers opted for this scheme and paid for the balance cost of the pump and got the systems transferred in their name. As per Sahjeevans estimate, farmers are saving Rs.40,000 to Rs.65,000 per annum on diesel costs. Apart from this direct savings, the farmers are also protected against future inflation in oil and diesel prices. This scheme has certainly brought a sense of freedom among the farmers. Our team visited Ramjibhai of Chandroda block of Anjar of the district. He proudly displayed his solar installation and showed his covered diesel pump set which has not been used since the solar pump was installed in his farm. These solar pumps are being maintained by the team of technicians of Sahjeevan. There are only 2 farmers who are under the rental scheme. They come to Bhuj for paying the rent. There have been no defaults among the users. Out of total Rs.1.2 Million invested by Sahjeevan, more then Rs.0.6 million is already been recovered. The Renewable Energy Unit at Sahjeevan, which is responsible for the solar programme undertook awareness generation programme with Banks and other FIs so that appropriate credit packages are developed by these lending institutions like NABARD, GEDA and other lead banks in the district.

CONCLUSIONS FOR FUTURE DIRECTION IN DELIVERY MECHANISM, PRODUCT VARIETY AND IMPROVEMENT
Overall this programme completed the full cycle, transitioning from conception to field testing resulting in expansion, high awareness and financial recovery. While this programme was about to pickup further speed, MNES withdrew subsidy on solar pumping programme. This major policy shift brought this programme to standstill. Need for subsidy for this programme is very essential to maintain financial viability compared to a diesel pump. To maintain the continuity in this programme some activity should be maintained. The success of this programme should be separately documented. This should be used for advocacy with the state and central government. A focused programme could be proposed to MNES or Gujarat Government. Another area of activity could be in the area of improving the efficiency of the pump. The sludge pump development for waste water established high degree of technical capabilities of the team. Jointly with AuroRE team and Sahjeevans experience a new pump
35

could be developed. This pump would be of higher efficiency resulting in same amount of delivery of water with smaller solar array. If this product is developed it would need lesser amount of subsidy to make it viable. A focused programme for 20 to 25 pumps could be proposed to a funding agency. A possibility of getting second hand solar pumps from other areas should be explored. A range of solar pumps could be offered on full cost with a financing scheme of hire purchase like for solar home lights. If a longer tenure loans can be arranged through banks then some farmers may opt for this option. The efforts to keep alive this programme should be encouraged.
36

Annexure: 2

COST VIABILITY SOLAR DEVICES AGAINST DIESEL PUMPSETS FOR IRRIGATION

Depth Area of Land Crop Crop length
Sr. Details

45 feet (14meter) 5 acres Castor seed 9 months

Diesel Engine (5HP) Solar Pumping System (2 HP) Actual Cost Subsidized Cost 120000 25000 10 year 120000 600000 -

1 2 3 4 5 6

Capital cost with Installation cost of lifting device Storage tank Life Time of the System Water requirement /acre/irrigation Water requirement /irrigation to irrigate 5 acres Water output of the Diesel Engine Water output of the Solar Pump / day Operational hours of the Diesel Engine to irrigate 1 acre Operational hours of the Diesel Engine to irrigate 5 acres Diesel Consumption Diesel Consumption to irrigate 1 acre

15000 1000 10 year 120000 600000 500 liter /minute -

392000 25000 10 year 120000 600000 -

1,20,000 lit. / 5.5 hrs 5 25 0 0

1,20,000 lit. / 5.5 hrs 5 25 0 0

37

8 9 10 11

4 20 1.5 lit/hour 6

Sr.

Details

Diesel Engine (5HP)

Solar Pumping System (2 HP) Actual Cost Subsidized Cost 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 800

12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22

Diesel Consumption/ irrigation of 5 acres (lit.) Diesel Consumption/3 irrigations in a month (lit.) Unit cost of Diesel Rs. Cost of Diesel to irrigate 5 acres of land/month Cost of Diesel /9 Months Oil consumotion/ 9 months Cost of Oil Rs. Cost of Oil/season Transportation of Diesel & Oil/season Rs. Maintenance cost/year Rs. Total operational and Maintenance cost for first year/crop Diesel cost/crop/9 years @10% increment in the cost Oil cost/crop/9 years @ 5% increment in the cost Maintenance cost/crop/9 years @ 5% incremental cost Transportation cost of the Diesel & Oil Total operational and Maintenance cost/crop/ 10 years Total cost including capital cost Rs.

30 90 29 2610 23490 10 litre 90 900 900 800

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 800

26090 350880 10420 9262 13445

800 0 0 9262 0

800 0 0 9262 0

23 24 25 26 27

410097 426097

10062 427062

10062 155062

38

Case Study on Biomass Gasifiers for Salt Farming and Agricultural Pumps
CASE PERSPECTIVE/BACKGROUND
Kutch region is home for most widespread growth of prosipis julifora (local name Ganda bawal), a bushy and thorny tree shrub from acacia family. This specie was introduced in 1960s as a hardy plant under aforestation programme. Subsequently this plant turned out to be invasive specie covering the entire region. Government had restricted the cutting of this
39

tree as a forestation measure. Recently this protection was removed and it was allowed to clear large areas. The wood of this tree has a high energy content which makes it suitable as an ideal raw material for charcoal production. This wood is also highly recommended for use in biomass gasifier. Realizing this opportunity Sahjeevan has embarked on field testing of a biomass gasifier for the salt pan workers and agricultural farmers. The objectives of the programme are: to Field test a new renewable technology. to diversify the portfolio of renewable energy intervention to demonstrate a decentralized generation and distribution model to improve the financial viability of salt pan farming and conventional agriculture

TECHNICAL PARAMETERS:
A gasifier system works on the principle of pyrolisis or low grade burning of woody biomass. The biomass could be agricultural waste or tree pruning. In a controlled atmosphere of the gasifier chamber wood chips would be burned by controlling the air supply. The gas produced would be passed through a filter and used in a gas powered engine for producing electricity. This electricity produced would be used to power centrifugal or submersible pumps. There two sizes of system selected for the first phase. Salt farmers normally use a 5 HP vertical diesel pump. To replace this, a 4 kW closed top system biomass gasifier is selected. The gasifier and the engine will be supplied by Ankur Scientific in Baroda. This system will have a 5 kW electric generator which would alternatively produce electricity to power 2 Nos. 2 HP centrifugal pumps. The second system is an 11 kW gasifier with a 10 KVA gas powered generator. This system will be installed in Dador area for a cluster of farmers growing variety of crops. This system could power up to 3 to 5 pumps of different capacities up to total of 7.5HP.

40

SOCIAL, ORGANIZATION & ECONOMICS

Salt pan workers are considered one of the most underprivileged communities of Kutch. They normally work as tenant farmers for the salt industry and are heavily indebted to the salt processors. Large debts with high interest rates make it almost impossible for them to come out of the vicious cycle. Fuel, in this case diesel, is one of the highest cost input in producing salt. For working capital for purchase of diesel they have to depend upon their buying agent. Each cycle of 8 months requires about 1000 - 1,200 litres of diesel which is valued at Rs.42,000 per annum. The issues related with the agricultural sector were discussed in the solar pumping section. Same issues are being addressed with biomass as an instrument of change. The only change is that there will be a cluster of farmers who would have access to the power generated and be responsible for the operation of the plant. A user association is being formed to manage the affairs who would maintain a separate bank account. Initially 4 to 6 farm users would be connected to the 11 kW plant. Sahjeevan is proposing to invest the capital cost of the equipment. The running and operational cost would be borne by the end users. The capital cost would be repaid by charging an hourly fee for usage which has been calculated to Rs. 42/-. Users would be responsible for the collecting and gathering fuel wood and pay for the operation and maintenance cost. For the first year an operating supervisor would be appointed by Sahjeevan. This supervisor would be trained and work under the management of Sahjeevan. After one year the operation would be completely handed over to the users.

CONCLUSION
This project is in first stage of its development for field testing prototypes. There have been earlier trials in other areas like in Coimbatore area of Tamil Nadu on similar principles. Sahjeevan has studied these models and has seen the operation of these plants within Gujarat. In the normal course there would technical and management challenges which would offer opportunities for improvement. Overall it is a right direction to diversify the portfolio with introduction of new technology.
41

Conclusion: Issues in Promotion of the Solar Based Technology

HIGH CAPITAL COST:
Solar photovoltaic systems have high upfront cost although economically competitive on running cost in comparison to diesel generation etc. By selecting appropriate applications and demonstrating its efficacy in enhanced income generation and thereby possibilities of micro credit this barrier is being addressed.

MNES/IREDA/WORLD BANK SUBSIDY PROGRAMME:

The cost of solar photovoltaic system is very high and to overcome from this barrier MNES/ IREDA has started the subsidy programme. During the execution of the MNES programs a number of barriers have been observed for widespread promotion of solar photovoltaic system. The subsidy mechanism is very complex and very hard to understand by the local farmers. Under subsidy scheme the numbers of pumping systems are limited. Some State Governments announces subsidy schemes only for selected blocks.

LACK OF AWARENESS ABOUT THE TECHNOLOGY, OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF THE APPLICATIONS:
First of all Rural/Urban communities are not very familiar with these Renewable Energy Technologies and their usefulness. After getting information about it, then they are not aware/informed about the operation and maintenance aspects and the systems stop functioning after a period of time. Worldwide, there are so many systems lying unused or in faulty condition due to improper operation and lack of proper and timely maintenance. To overcome these hindrances Sahjeevan has already established a Solar Service Unit which is
43

providing regular services to the farmers for regular maintenance. The unit members have been trained and they will train the local persons and strengthen their skills to service solar photovoltaic appliances within short period of time.

LACK OF SPARE PARTS BEING LOCALLY AVAILABLE AND IMMEDIATE LOCAL SERVICE SUPPORT:
The areas where the Renewable Appliances especially Solar Photovoltaic Systems are being installed, are usually remote. People are not able to get the spares of the systems because in normal/conventional market it is not normally a sellable product. The Solar Service Unit is providing support for repairing and replacements of parts for any system by maintaining the stock of such parts.

LIMITED SUCCESSFUL ECONOMICAL DEMONSTRATION MODEL EXPERIENCE:

People are not aware of the technology and other aspects and also do not know about the economical viability of the system. There have been very little effort towards the implementation of solar photovoltaic systems (in this case lighting & pumping) to demonstrate its efficacy as an economical success.

LACK OF PROACTIVE ATTITUDE OF FINANCING INSTITUTIONS LIKE BANKS:

As the upfront cost of the pumping system is very high, farmers are unable to pay upon purchase. Farmers are looking for financial support from different financial agencies like banks. Many of nationalised banks & cooperative banks get refinance from NABARD against the loans issued by them. Since two years NABARD had not revised the unit cost of the solar pumping system but NABARD had circulated about the incorporation of the Appliances of Renewable Energy Technology into their lending policies. But, due to lack of awareness among farmers and lack of confidence in the new technology for the area, banks are hesitating to give loans to farmers.

44

Annexure: 3

INTRODUCTION TO KUTCH AND SAHJEEVAN

Kutch is a region, also a district, about 46,000 sq.km. in area. About half this land is uninhabited due to the inhospitable conditions in the Ranns (desert). This small region has been a confluence, a meeting point for cultures, ecosystems, and geological formations, which has contributed to its rich diversity. This is the only arid ecosystem in the world that is accompanied by a marine mangrove ecosystem along its coast. The Ranns have a unique ecosystem of their own, with the only site for flamingo breeding and the Wild Ass in the country. The Bhuj Ridge which is habited by the thorn forests, straddles the district from east to west, and has the most dense population in the district. Politically too, Kutch has been at the confluence of two kingdoms, regions and religions-Vagad, the eastern part of Kutch has largely been influenced by the Saurashtra Hindus; and Kutch, in the west and north-west, traced its practices to the Persian and Islamic influences. This has meant that 38 distinct communities coexist together in this small region. Almost all of them are also traditional artisans with highly evolved forms of embroideries and crafts; both cattle and craft being the customary medium of barter and trade relationships. In the last half a century, Kutch has witnessed two important changes that had a critical affect on the regions overall development. One of them was the introduction of the bore well for tapping the deep ground waters and second, introduction of prosopis in the region. Bore wells continued to dig deep and deeper still to get water for irrigation and drinking leading to depletion and growing salinity ingress. Unchecked spread of Prosopis too has led to extinction of many species of flora and fauna in the region. Kutch is now poised at the beginning of another major change of Industrialisation.

45

Droughts are a common and recurring phenomenon in Kutch- three years in a five year cycle are droughts. As the economies of agriculture and animal husbandry began to erode in the mid-eighties, communities began losing control over their drought coping mechanisms. Perhaps, the determining factor that contributed to making these economies unsustainable was the recurring introduction of Drought Relief Works with every drought. In a period of 13 years, Kutch saw 9 droughts, and the Government spent more than 640 crores during droughts. In most years, this amount was more than the planned outlay for development for the district. Over the years, it has become more lucrative to spend time on drought relief sites, rather than invest time in sustaining a rain-dependant agriculture, and animal husbandry. That people through the eighties and nineties preferred droughts to good rainfall years, in most parts of Kutch, has been a natural travesty of faith. Water has been the central theme that has dominated the development directions in Kutch. Post independence, the countrys preoccupation with irrigated models of agriculture and animal husbandry diverted attention of Kutch from developing its rain fed areas to external ways of bringing water into Kutch - first from the Sindhu, (Indus, Pakistan) then from the Indira canal (in Rajasthan) and now from the Narmada. This was also a period when solutions for regions such as Kutch were being given by technocrats who were not trained for arid conditions; their solutions were expensive, as well as short lived and the possibilities of developing local solutions was not entertained. But more than that, this resulted in local communities being less and less in control of their resources. It was only the beginning of dependency on the government. While the dominant discourse within the district of Kutch remained on bringing Narmada waters to Kutch, three organisations began to explore with communities local solutions to local problems. One of these organisations was Sahjeevan. Sahjeevan focused its understanding on the geo-hydrology of the district in order to develop decentralised drinking water solutions, and defining watersheds from the local context, as well as from a gender perspective.
46

In the development scenario in the district, Sahjeevan has contributed in the following ways: Developing and involving the State, NGOs and the people in the concept of decentralized drinking water systems. Thereby focusing attention and building confidence in the potential of the water resources of Kutch. Also supporting the women in making drinking water and its decision making their agenda. Developing the knowledge and establishing that the key to water resource development in Kutch is in the understanding of its geology (As opposed to engineering). Simplifying this complex system to be able to train local youth as para water technicians for their region and villages. Introducing the concept of para water technicians as the sustainable method for the long term development of the region. Reviving the fodder bank concept and involving both, the NGOs and the Government in its promotion. Networked and sustained the efforts of organic farmers in Kutch. Been an important founder member and sustained the efforts and programmes of Kutch Nav Nirman Abhiyan. Sahjeevan has constantly provided leadership to the various environment and Natural Resource Management programmes taken up by the members of Abhiyan including the Drought Proofing Programme. Questioned and raised a consciousness in the district on the model of Industrialization vis--vis the environment, water and traditional occupations of Kutch. Begun tapping and demonstrating the potential of renewable energy as solutions for the problems being faced by poor in the district. Along with the women of Kutch redefined their relationship with their natural resource and their societies. Particularly on issues of water, land & drought relief programmes.

47

Annexure: 4

Aurore, Mr. HEMANT LAMBA

Auroville Renewable Energy (AuroRE), is based in Auroville, South India, is a communityowned commercial enterprise which was founded in 1998. The promoters passionately believed that renewable energy represents the future. Over the years the team and its collaborators came to understand that one of the best ways of disseminating RE more widely was for them to become an Energy Service Provider which promotes and networks with locally-based RE enterprises. There are different units operating under AuroRE for different type of activities like project development and management, marketing, design and manufacturing. AuroRE has handled various ambitious projects like solar pumping programme in Punjab, Solar lighting in Ladakh. Supporting in setting up local energy enterprises which will increase the penetration of RE in India and creating the foundation for a big change. AuroRE won the prestigious Ashden Award in 2004 for enterprise for its achievement in acting as a catalyst for small-scale solar businesses across India. This review is jointly done by Divya Kapoor and Hemant Lamba, residents of Auroville and having relation with Sahjeevans RE programme since 2002. Divya is an engineering graduate and did her finance management from IIM Bangalore. She has experience of working in Duetche bank for 4 years and in IT Power, Pondicherry. Presently, she is the trustee of Matrimandir and manages the finance of Auroville Maintenance Fund. Hemant is the executive of AuroRE moved to the international community of Auroville in 1991 from Delhi. He had completed graduate studies in Economics and Entrepreneurship & Small Business from Delhi University, but what drew him to the community was the wish to participate in an adventure. In those days he knew little about renewable energy, but the first enterprise he worked with in the community was designing and assembling RE system components.

49

Annexure: 5

TIMELINE OF THE RE PROGRAMME, SAHJEEVAN

July 2000 Starting of work on Solar Pumping in collaboration Centre for Science and Research (CSR), Auroville, Pondicherry.

November 2000 Decision taken to promote Solar Pumping Technology for Drinking Water and accordingly mobilization process started with the community. May May 2001 Set up of demonstrations of two Solar Pumping Systems for Drinking Water at Dador village and at Training and Production Centre, Khavda. 2002 Village Committee of Dador started management of decentralized drinking water system along with solar pumping system with norms for O&M, management of pump, etc.

December 2002 Response got in Krushi Mela at Bhachau, became cause for initiation of solar pumping programme for farmers. January March 2003 Establishment of service based unit as Solar Service Unit to render services to install, repair and maintenance of solar PV systems. 2003 Capacity building of team members for installation of solar lighting systems. Demonstration of four types of solar lighting systems set up in five villages having domination of artisans, cattle breeders and un-electrified households. Tried out Rental System for the solar lights for smooth operation and maintenance. July March 2003 The first kind of Seasonal Rental introduced for the Solar Pumping systems for agricultural use installed in eight numbers in different blocks of Kutch. 2004 Started development of Credit Package for Solar Lighting for marginalized livelihoods with Sangathans and KUSHAL MANCH.

50

June August

2004 Team has developed capacity to develop and field demonstration of Solar powered WLL telephone and mobile charging system. 2004 First loan sanctioned for solar pumping system at Shinay branch of Gramin Bank Starting of lobbying to convince WASMO for promotion of solar pumping system with decentralized drinking water schemes

December 2004 Workshop organized with Syndicate Bank, Bhartiya Vikas Trust, Manipal and Winrock International, New Delhi to sensitize bankers to consider and prepare loan schemes for solar lighting systems March May August 2005 Installation of first Sludge Pump operated by solar power at GIDC relocation site with HUNNARSHALA. 2005 Participated in Lok Samvad organized by WASMO - platform to demonstrate the technology for drinking water to mass base and policy makers. 2005 First successful field trial of Credit Package for 4 solar lanterns at Harijan Vas, Vajiravandh.

September 2005 Installation of Solar Lighting Systems with Fisherman community in cooperation with Ujjas Sangathan and Bhadreshwar SETU by using Credit norms developed by KUSHAL MANCH for Solar Lighting System. December 2005 Installation of Community Charging System at Lakdawandh and Maya Pati in cooperation with Nilpar Setu First installations of Biomass Gasifier in Kutch for groups of farmer and salt pan workers as decentralized power supply stations.

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Annexure: 6

TABLE SHOWING TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS AND VILLAGES OF VARIOUS RETECHNOLOGIES IMPLEMENTED:

Sr. Details No. of solar panels Solar Battery Module 1 2 3 4 5 Lantern Jugnu HLS SSL Solar Pump Solar Pump Solar Pump 1 1 1 1 12 10W, 12 Volt 12W, 12 Volt 75W 12 Volt 75 W 12 Volt 75 W 12 Volt 6 Amp, 12 Volt 40 Amp, 12 Volt 75 Amp 12 Volt 75 Amp 12 Volt No Battery Specification of System Water Output

No. of Luminaries 1 2 02+ small fan 1 1 pump

Capacity of Luminaries 7W/5W 7W 9W, 18 Watt (fan) 11W

Operating Hours 4 2 4 each

24

75 W No 12 Volt Battery 75 W No 12 Volt Battery

1 pump

24

1 pump

Biomass Gasfire (4 kw) Biomass Gasfire (11 kw)

2 pumps

1 pump

75000 lit/day @10 meter of head Submersible min.5.5, 26000 lit/day Pump 0.75 max. 10 @50 meter of HP*** head Surface min.5.5, 140000 lit/ Pump 2 HP** max. 9 day @10 meter of head Surface designed 45000 lit/ Pump 2HP for the use hour@15 of 16 hrs./ meter of head day Submersible designed 50000 lit/ Pump 7.5 for the use hour@100 HP of 20 hrs./ feet of head day

dusk to dawn Surface min.5.5, Pump 1 HP** max. 9

**

Capacity of lifting water at the depth from 12 to 15 mtrs. ***

Capacity of lifting water at the depth from 50 mtrs.

52

Annexure: 7

TABLE SHOWING COMMUNITYWISE IMPLEMENTATION OF VARIOUS RETECHNOLOGIES IMPLEMENTED:

Sr. 1 Segments/ Community Fisherman Villages Vira, Vandi Randh, Luni Tragadi Jagar Vadi No. of Households 11 Type of Application Lantern

Artisan

Sanjot Nagar

05 01 16 01 01 03 31 02 03 03 03 01 01 01 01 01 06

Cattle Breeder

Vajira Vandh

Nani Dadhhar

Non-Electrified Households

Dador

5 6

Non-Electrified Villages Farmers

Simri Vandh Bagpat, Bhadreshwar Chandroda, Faradi, Gangapar Lakshmipur Chundi, Makhna Dador Sukhpur (Adesar)

Lantern WLL Phone Lantern Home Light Jugnu Home Light Street Light Lantern Home Light Jugnu Home Light Street Light Lantern Home Light System Lantern Home Light Jugnu Street Light Lantern Solar Surface Pumps

02 01 01

Salt Workers

Solar Submersible Pumps Biomass Gasifier Biomass Gasifier

53

SOLAR PRODUCTS

175, Jalaram Society, Behind Vijaymangal Apartment, Vijaynagar, Bhuj-370 001, Kutch.-India Phone: 02832-251814 Fax 02832-251914