Essar Ports, a leading private port & terminal developer & operator, along with Essar Foundation, in their combined efforts of sustainable development, have powered Navjagruti Vidyavihar School in Hazira, Gujarat, through renewable energy – solar rooftop panels.
The installation of a solar power system of about three megawatts at the school in Hazira is a testimony of the Essar Ports and Essar Foundation’s commitment towards investment in green energy as a responsible corporate.
The initiative was launched in the kind presence of Mr. Deepak Berry, Chief Financial Officer, Essar Bulk Terminal Limited Hazira, Mr. Dharmeshbhai Patel, Sarpanch Mr. Bharatbhai Patel, Deputy Sarpanch of Hazira Gram Panchayat, and Dr. Mitesh Parekh, Principal of the school were present on the occasion.
Contrary to the most commonly used phrase “Let there be light” which reinforces the realization of better knowledge and wisdom, schools in remote parts of India face acute power shortage.
As a result, children as well as the teachers stay in uncomfortable environments which distorts the learning curve. The problems magnify due to hot weather during summer season and extreme cold during winter season. To meet the power requirements, roof-top solar panels have been installed in the school. The solar system is connected to a battery system and an inverter. All the classrooms have been provided with 4 lights and 4 fans. Total 30 lights and 20 fans. The students in schools will now be able to use the smart boards installed before without any power interruptions.
This initiative has also allowed the children to realize the potential of solar energy. A major impact of the initiative would be reducing carbon footprint and availability of funds of school for other developments. Another impact would be an attitude change in the students wherein they will be exposed to green energy from an early age.
With the increasing digitization of schools’ e-learning schemes, digital attendance and more schools need to be self-reliant in terms of electricity to address the need of the hour.
Essar Foundation works positively impacts the lives of all stakeholders including employees and the communities living close to its facilities. Community initiatives aim to enhance livelihoods through programs focused on entrepreneurship, education, empowering women, infrastructure, environment and health. It sees involving community leaders as the key to success.