Lighting Up Lives: SELCO INDIA
by VANSH MITUL SHAH
Pioneering social enterprise SELCO India which lies in the heart of India’s energy landscape has been on a mission over the years to illuminate the lives of millions by providing sustainable energy solutions. Let’s dive into the inspiring and unique journey of SELCO India — from its humble beginning to its transformative impact on the socio-economic scene of the country.
HISTORY
Founded in the year 1995 by Dr. Harsh Hande and Neville Williams with a vision to upgrade the energy supply to the poor in India, their initial motive was to supply clean, renewable energy which is a fundamental right of each individual at affordable prices. The beginning of their journey was in Karnataka where they realized the dire need for affordable and sustainable energy alternatives for the residents of rural areas.
STRUGGLES AND TRIUMPHS SELCO INDIA FARM
The path to success is filled with a number of challenges, and this was faced by SELCO too. In the early days, they faced skepticism and resistance from traditional energy stakeholders. Since it was a fairly new initiative of the time with limited probability of success, finance was a major hurdle too. Banks were hesitant to give loans at affordable rates with the worry that they would remake their investment. Despite these obstacles, SELCO India persevered, driven by its unwavering commitment to making a difference. Overcoming these challenges, SELCO India gradually gained momentum and the support of people, earning the trust of communities and investors alike. Their innovative approach to solar energy solutions propelled them forward, enabling them to reach more households and businesses in need.
MARKETING STRATEGIES
SELCO INDIA’s marketing strategies generally involve community engagement and creating awareness about the benefits of solar energy in the long run. Over the years, this company has prioritized building trust and credibility among the communities they serve. Emphasizing education and awareness-building around the benefits of solar energy, convincing consumers to switch to discard the conventional methods of usage and adopt renewable energy by making informed decisions about their energy needs. Workshops, demonstrations, and educational campaigns are held to get the younger generation excited about solar energy and its longlasting benefits.
VIEW ON SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Fundamentally, SELCO India is the epitome of social entrepreneurship, using commercial ideas to promote constructive social and environmental transformation. They contend that meeting the needs of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable groups is the only way to achieve sustainable development. In addition to serving as an energy supplier, SELCO India views itself as a social change agent that enables underprivileged communities to end the cycle of poverty and develop greater resilience and self-sufficiency. SELCO India’s path, in summary, is proof of the strength of vision, tenacity, and social innovation. SELCO India continues to inspire and uplift millions of people by illuminating homes and businesses and promoting socioeconomic growth, demonstrating that sustainable energy is not only a necessity but also a fundamental human right
1. Supporting Livelihoods
2. Basic Energy Access
3. Institutional Helps
4. Training and Advisory Centres
