Uttar Pradesh is looking to onboard 100,000 ‘Surya Sakhis’ for its ambitious solar energy drive in the rural areas of the state.
Women self-help groups (SHGs) will be connected with the Surya Sakhi program for solar-based projects such as panel installations, lighting systems, and EV (electric vehicle) charging stations.
“The Yogi Adityanath government is working to empower women and make them self-reliant. As part of this effort, multiple initiatives are being implemented to boost women’s participation in rural development,” a senior UP official said.
Taking this mission forward, the UP State Rural Livelihood Mission (UPSRLM) is organising the DEWEE (Decentralized Energy for Women’s Economic Empowerment) program.
The initiative aims to provide Decentralized Renewable Energy (DRE) solutions to 100,000 women-led enterprises by 2030.
This will not only accelerate the adoption of solar energy but also strengthen the financial independence of women.
Experts from India and abroad in the field of solar energy will participate in the program to chart a roadmap for implementing DRE solutions on the ground.
UPSRLM Director Deepa Ranjan said the Yogi government is laying special emphasis on women empowerment and rural development.
She noted that economic empowerment of women is the foundation for prosperity in society.
DRE refers to off-grid or mini-grid energy solutions – an important resource for people living in remote and rural areas where conventional electricity networks are difficult to reach.
DRE will ensure clean, affordable and reliable energy access for households and communities.
Through this initiative, women will not only be able to improve their economic condition but also actively contribute to advancing clean energy solutions.
Under the DEWEE program, women will be trained to install, maintain, and repair DRE systems, as well as provide clean energy-related services within their communities.
This will enhance their income and enable them to play a stronger role in society. In addition, women will also get opportunities to establish small-scale enterprises, opening new avenues of empowerment.
UPSRLM has partnered with key organisations, including PCI India, HCBC, Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet, Gates Foundation India and Prerna Ojas.
With the support of these institutions, the initiative will be implemented across 20 districts of UP, building an inclusive and resilient clean energy ecosystem for women.