A tour company in the Indian Himalayas has set up the first ever solar power grid in the mountainous region.
Global Himalayan Expedition (GHE), which set up a new Education Base during its maiden expedition last year, and has now supported this facility with the creation of three solar power grids at Sumda Chenmo, a 11th Century village nestled in the Zanskar Valley, more than 4,200 metres above sea-level.
A team of more than 20 participants representing nine countries trekked for two days through narrow winding trails and over the famous 4,880m Konzke La Pass, before finally reaching the village of Sumda Chenmo.
The team then worked for three days to set up the solar panels, install batteries, mount electrical wiring and fit light bulb connections. The new grid now powers the entire village and even supports an LED television – a first for the region.
Recalling the moment the grid was switched on, GHE founder Paras Loomba said; “As the sun went down, the 121 energy-efficient LED bulbs bathed the village of Sumda Chenmo in a pool of incandescent white light, illuminating the ancient heritage. As soon as the grid went live, the villagers spontaneously broke-off into singing and dancing on traditional Ladakhi songs, and distributing locally brewed barley beer.
“It was heartening to see the happiness on the face of the villagers and the participants alike. While one group had never known electricity, the other had never known life without it.”
GHE noted that the solar power plan would offset the use of 1,600 litres of kerosene, saving approximately 4000kg of CO2 emissions. It will also help extend the working hours and productivity of villagers by four hours per day, boosting income opportunities for the community.
Source: Travel Daily