A couple of years back, the remote hills of Manipur suffered from frequent power cuts. This hindered women’s economic independence as their weaving and sewing activities were curtailed by unreliable power.

In 2019, Seth Moirangthem founded SNL Energy Solutions to provide affordable solar energy to rural communities.

He collaborated with NGOs and microfinance institutions to make solar technology affordable, introducing financing options like EMIs.

“Typically, households choose a 40-watt solar panel, which can power a few bulbs in a three-room home, costing around Rs 18,000,” he says.

“However, for households looking to run power looms and sewing machines, we recommend a 1-kilowatt solar panel, priced around Rs 2 lakh,” he adds.

Introduction of solar energy allows women to work late into the night, significantly enhancing their ability to sustain economic independence and improve productivity.

Reliable solar lighting also enables children to study after dark without interruptions, breaking free from the limitations of kerosene lamps.

Moreover, he has also powered huts at Loktak Lake, which is renowned for its unique floating islands. This supports fishing communities that were once cut off from the grid.

Despite logistical and political challenges, including operations halt due to communal violence, Seth expanded solar solutions to over 1,000 households in 100 villages in Manipur.

“Solar energy is doing more than electrifying homes; it is catalysing empowerment for women and fostering an environment where children’s dreams can flourish unhampered by the limitations of their surroundings,” adds Seth.