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The ‘Summit-Friendship Solar Village’ project, a joint effort between Summit Group and the international social purpose organization Friendship, has been honored with the Reuters Global Energy Transition Award 2024 in the ‘Projects of Impact’ category. The award ceremony took place in New York on June 25, 2024, recognizing the project’s outstanding contribution to making clean energy more accessible and enhancing climate resilience in remote parts of Bangladesh. Situated in Char Kabilpur, a remote area in the Gaibandha district along the Brahmaputra River, the project features a 57.6 kilowatt scalable solar microgrid. This solar village now supplies reliable electricity to around 3,000 people living on isolated sedimentary islands that are not connected to the national power grid. The microgrid supports 205 ultra-poor households, a small market with 26 shops, four primary schools, a Madrasa, and a Legal Information Booth operated by Friendship. Selected from a pool of 500 global nominations, the project stood out for its measurable success in improving energy affordability and helping communities better withstand the impacts of climate change. The introduction of solar power has allowed local businesses to stay open longer and has made it easier for schools to conduct evening classes, significantly improving daily life in these off-grid areas.Muhammed Aziz Khan, Chairman of Summit Power International, mentioned, “Summit wants to serve 100% of Bangladesh with infrastructures such as electricity and communication. Some ‘Char’ areas, which are outside the national grid, also deserve electricity. The award-winning Friendship NGO has done wonders. It’s a privilege to provide solar energy to the 3,000 people of Char Kabilpur in association with Friendship.” Friendship founder Runa Khan emphasized the unique challenges of the region, said in a statement, “Anyone who has seen the mighty River Jamuna will understand that mainline power grids are not really possible here. On the other hand, this solar grid will provide income-generating opportunities and livelihoods, as well as opportunities for children’s education, and of course that hope and dignity thrive. We want to thank Summit for its support.” |
