Going Net Zero with India’s First Solar-Powered Village

As many nations strive to combat greenhouse gas emissions arising from the use of fossil fuels, India has taken a giant leap forward in its national strategy to implement renewable zero-carbon energy technologies. In early 2022, India announced its ambition to reach net-zero emissions by 2070 and to obtain fifty percent (50%) of its electricity from renewable energy sources by 2030.

On the path to implementing clean, renewable energy technologies, one of India’s strategies is to harness the sunlight that’s abundantly available due to the country’s geographical location near Earth’s equator. In October 2022, Modhera, a village in the state of Gujarat, was the first in India to be 100% powered by solar energy. The humble community of approximately 7,000 residents is located on the banks of the Pushpavati River. The solar panels provide power to the village’s households and businesses day and night. By doing so, many villagers no longer need to pay for electricity, with some even getting paid for the energy that goes back into the grid.

Modhera is famous for its Sun Temple, a protected ancient site situated on the river Pushpavati. The solar power systems in Modhera have helped improve the businesses and finances of the humble local villagers, who consist mainly of potters, tailors, farmers, and shoemakers. The villagers can save their much-needed finances by eliminating the need to pay for electricity.

The pace of India’s installation of solar power projects has continued to gain momentum. In November 2022, The Economic Times reported, “India saved USD 4.2 billion [by eliminating the purchase of fossil] fuel costs through [installation of] solar power from January to June.” India’s Minister of Power, The Honorable Minister Raj Kumar Singh, said, “the global dependence on fossil fuels is unhealthy, not just for the environment, but also for the economy.” He added, “The good news is that we already have the tools we need to counter these, and the development in technology is making sure that even more effective resources are made available in the years to come. It is now up to us to decide how quickly we can deploy these.”

As the world’s consciousness continues to be elevated by Heaven’s blessing, people will continue to create more sustainable technologies. Our Cherished Supreme Master Ching Hai (vegan) once shared Her thoughts on this subject.