On the remote islands of India’s Sundarbans delta, storms and floods are a part of life. When cyclones strike, electricity can disappear for days — leaving homes in darkness and making it difficult for families to work, study or access safe drinking water.
Through the In Their Lifetime–funded Solar Shakti (Solar Sisters) project, Christian Aid and partners SPADE and Change Alliance are supporting women’s self-help groups to bring reliable solar power to their communities.
The project builds on a successful pilot on Mousuni Island, where a women-run solar microgrid has already begun transforming daily life. The system now provides power for homes, lighting for village streets, and electricity for small businesses and irrigation systems — helping families continue their activities even when storms disrupt the main grid
Encouraged by these results, the project is now working with women’s groups to expand the model across the island. In time, the new solar systems will bring reliable electricity to around 3,000 households — more than 17,000 people living in these vulnerable coastal communities
During the first months of this phase, the focus has been on working closely with communities to understand their priorities and ensure women’s groups are ready to lead the project. Local consultations have explored how solar energy could support new livelihood opportunities — from improving irrigation for farming to helping fishing families keep their catch fresh for longer
Community interest is already growing. During early discussions, 17 households volunteered to pay for their own connection costs in order to access the future solar service — a strong sign that people see the value of reliable energy
Alongside providing power, women’s groups will also plant mangrove trees along vulnerable coastlines. These natural barriers help protect homes, farmland and the minigrids we install, from floods and storm surges.
As the project moves into the next stage, women will take the lead in managing the solar systems and the small businesses they power — helping their communities stay connected, earn a living and recover more quickly when the next storm arrives.
Henna from Christian Aid India recently visited the UK and we took the opportunity to interview her about the project.
Interview with Henna Hejazi - Christian Aid India
Henna from Christian Aid India recently visited the UK and we took the opportunity to interview her about the project.