Women-Focused RE Development in State for Livelihood Generation

A recent meeting from 6 to 8 November 2024 involving representatives from GIZ Implementation of Energy Plans, along with key stakeholders from Odisha’s key government departments and industry stakeholders, focused on identifying renewable energy (RE) activities aimed at empowering women through sustainable development. The discussion emphasised integrating Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) technologies into sectors where women’s participation can be enhanced, contributing to social empowerment and environmental sustainability.

One key resolution was the introduction of solar-powered spinning machines in the handloom sector, a traditionally women-driven industry. This innovation is expected to enhance productivity, improve working conditions, and preserve cultural heritage by sustaining traditional weaving skills. Additionally, transitioning diesel-powered boats at Chilka Lake to electric alternatives was prioritised to reduce pollution and support livelihoods linked to the lake’s ecosystem.

The proposal for ‘Mission RE-SHAKTI’ emerged as a transformative initiative aimed at scaling renewable energy- driven empowerment programmes within Odisha’s Mission Shakti framework. By linking women-centric enterprises such as weaving, fisheries, and food processing to clean energy solutions, the initiative seeks to create sustainable economic opportunities for women entrepreneurs.

GRIDCO’s renewable energy policy will align with these projects, ensuring a more integrated implementation framework. By fostering synergies across departments like Tourism, Fisheries, and MSMEs, Odisha aims to create a cohesive ecosystem where renewable energy projects drive both economic development and environmental conservation.

These decisions support India’s NDCs under the Paris Agreement by targeting emission reductions, promoting clean transport, and reducing fossil fuel reliance. The meeting highlighted the need for inter-departmental collaboration, capacity building, technological innovation, and community empowerment through knowledge-sharing and skill development. Odisha’s proactive approach positions it as a leader in renewable energy-driven socio-economic development, offering a replicable model through policy, technology, and social integration.

A recent meeting involving representatives from GIZ Implementation of Energy Plans, along with key stakeholders from Odisha’s key government departments and industry stakeholders, focused on identifying renewable energy (RE) activities aimed at empowering women through sustainable development. The discussion emphasised integrating Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) technologies into sectors where women’s participation can be enhanced, contributing to social empowerment and environmental sustainability.

One key resolution was the introduction of solar-powered spinning machines in the handloom sector, a traditionally women-driven industry. This innovation is expected to enhance productivity, improve working conditions, and preserve cultural heritage by sustaining traditional weaving skills. Additionally, transitioning diesel-powered boats at Chilka Lake to electric alternatives was prioritised to reduce pollution and support livelihoods linked to the lake’s ecosystem.

The proposal for ‘Mission RE-SHAKTI’ emerged as a transformative initiative aimed at scaling renewable energy- driven empowerment programmes within Odisha’s Mission Shakti framework. By linking women-centric enterprises such as weaving, fisheries, and food processing to clean energy solutions, the initiative seeks to create sustainable economic opportunities for women entrepreneurs.

GRIDCO’s renewable energy policy will align with these projects, ensuring a more integrated implementation framework. By fostering synergies across departments like Tourism, Fisheries, and MSMEs, Odisha aims to create a cohesive ecosystem where renewable energy projects drive both economic development and environmental conservation.

These decisions support India’s NDCs under the Paris Agreement by targeting emission reductions, promoting clean transport, and reducing fossil fuel reliance. The meeting highlighted the need for inter-departmental collaboration, capacity building, technological innovation, and community empowerment through knowledge-sharing and skill development. Odisha’s proactive approach positions it as a leader in renewable energy-driven socio-economic development, offering a replicable model through policy, technology, and social integration.

For more information please contact Mr. Pulkit Shrotri (pulkit.shrotri(at)giz.de) and Mr. Krushna Kaant Gupta (krushna.gupta(at)giz.de).