Nagpur: Khairi Walmazari, a village of 2,400 population bordering the Nagzira tiger sanctuary, has achieved remarkable feats in renewable energy generation. Most homes in the village supply solar power to the MSEDCL grid. A wind energy unit lights up the temple and the crematorium, while water from a brook generates hydel energy. The village, located over 120 km from Nagpur and frequently visited by wild animals on farms, has bagged the Centre's climate action special panchayat award, ranking second in the country.
Renewable Energy Generation
The village today generates more than 400 kilowatts of renewable energy, a mix of hydel, wind, and solar power. As many as 632 families have solar connections. Other facilities like public premises, farms, and common roads are lit by solar power, according to a note shared by the district administration. Over 600 families also have rainwater harvesting facilities.
Journey to Success
"It all began with the village winning the Sant Gadge Baba sanitation competition at the state level. Later, we decided to take it further," says Purshottam Rukhmode, the sarpanch. With over three lakh trees of indigenous species, including many fruit-bearing trees, the village entirely negates the impact of carbon emissions.
Rukhmode lists the wind energy plant as one of the biggest achievements. "We are able to generate enough power through wind energy to light up the temple and crematorium premises. Most homes are linked with the grid, meaning they directly supply power to MSEDCL. Rest of the homes too have solar-lit lamps and other equipment," he says.
Challenges and Future Plans
Rukhmode notes that proximity to the Nagzira forest brings denser green cover to the village. However, they also expect the government to fence the area, preventing wild animals from entering the farms.
