Oakland, California - April 29, 2024 - GRID Alternatives (GRID), a leading non-profit organization dedicated to advancing economic and environmental justice through renewable energy initiatives, has forged a groundbreaking partnership with Bighnaharta Nepal, a Kathmandu-based not-for-profit organization focused on nature-based solutions for grassroots development.
The one-year collaboration aims to bring clean, affordable, renewable energy to underserved communities in Nepal through the installation of solar panels. This partnership marks a significant step towards GRID Alternatives' vision of fostering a rapid and equitable transition to a world powered by renewable energy, benefitting all communities, including those in remote and marginalized areas.
GRID, founded in 2001, has established itself as a leader in helping economic and environmental justice communities get clean, affordable renewable energy, transportation, and jobs. Its international efforts extend to Nepal, Nicaragua, Mexico, and Puerto Rico, where clean energy, transportation, and job opportunities empower underserved communities. Since 2012, GRID has been actively involved in Nepal, installing solar panels in rural regions lacking electricity and focusing on vital institutions such as health posts, schools, and community centers. GRID's work in Nepal focuses on bringing reliable electricity to remote buildings that provide health services and projects that empower women.
Jenean Smith, Vice President of the International Program at GRID Alternatives, shared, "GRID is excited to grow our program in Nepal with Bighnaharta Nepal to bring energy access to more remote communities."
Bighnaharta Nepal, founded in 2019, has quickly emerged as a force for positive change, implementing nature-based solutions to address critical issues like disaster risk reduction, livelihood enhancement, climate justice, and gender equality. Through various projects in rural Nepal, Bighnaharta has demonstrated a commitment to uplifting vulnerable and marginalized communities.
Under the terms of the partnership, Bighnaharta Nepal will identify suitable locations and sectors in Nepal for solar panel installations. At the same time, GRID Alternatives will provide essential funding, technical expertise, and mentorship. This collaboration represents an exciting opportunity for both organizations to expand their reach and impact, particularly in reaching vulnerable and marginalized communities across Nepal and providing access to renewable and climate-friendly energy sources. Bighnaharta's Implementation will enhance the holistic vision of GRID, which is not just about the installation of solar panels to transition to green energy but, at the same time, address the intersectional issues of gender inequality, public health, education, women's empowerment, disaster resilience, and overall sustainable community development.
Gomesh Singh Upreti, Co-Founder and Executive President of Bighnaharta Nepal, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "This is a fascinating opportunity for both Bighnaharta Nepal and GRID to explore new horizons and reach out to vulnerable and marginalized communities across Nepal, providing access to alternative and climate-friendly sources of energy."
GRID Alternatives and Bighnaharta Nepal are poised to make a transformative impact in Nepal, bridging the gap in energy access and empowering communities to build a sustainable future.
About GRID Alternatives
GRID Alternatives is an international, U.S.-based 501(c)3 non-profit organization that builds community-powered solutions to advance economic and environmental justice through renewable energy GRID works in the U.S., Mexico, Nepal, and Nicaragua and has installed solar photovoltaic systems on more than 29,500 homes and affordable housing developments in underserved communities while providing more than 33,200 individuals with workforce development training GRID also provides clean mobility solutions and battery storage and is a leading voice in low-income solar policy development in the U.S. Installation Basics Training (IBT), a competency-based certificate program designed to develop the skills most relevant to entry-level solar installation jobs and related construction employment fields Trainees learn solar installation skills, OSHA 10 safety standards, first aid and CPR, and soft skills, including interpersonal communication and dependability, to help job trainees obtain and sustain employment.
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