OREANDA-NEWS. Tata Power, India's largest integrated power company, is committed towards the inclusive growth and development of the communities living in and around its areas of operation. In line with this philosophy, Tata Power, in association with Tata Power Solar Systems (TPSSL), has installed 40 solar powered street lights in 14 villages surrounding its Kalinganagar plant. The lights have been installed in strategic locations to maximize benefit to the villagers, and each installed point has been assigned one person from the villages to look after them.

Villagers near the plant would often face mobility issues at night due to the unavailability of street lights. After consulting with the villagers and Panchayat leaders, Tata Power has installed the solar lights in key locations of the villages that would help the community use the village roads at night, and organise meetings and cultural programmes in the common areas. The solar lights would also help the village students to continue with their studies at night during load-shedding in the summer seasons. The lights, designed by TPSSL, are cost-effective and come with a free 5-year maintenance by TPSSL.

Speaking about the initiative, Mr. Purushottam Thakur, Head, Odisha Projects, Tata Power, said, "We are delighted to have made a difference to the quality of lives of our communities. This initiative reiterates our commitment towards rural electrification, and re-affirms our focus on renewable energy resources. Initiatives such as these are a part of Tata Power's long-term sustainability agenda, and a step towards achieving a greener environment."

The 40 solar lights have been installed in the villages of Mantira, Pankpal, Jakhapura, Kendudhipi, Rabana, Dasmania, Arasahi, Dakharpada, Manoharpur, Patrasahi, Kurmisahi, Puruna Mantira, Jahnitota and Barpal in Kalinganagar area. The initiative was very well received by the local villagers, and the Panchayat leaders appreciated the efforts of Tata Power and were happy to see their villages beautifully lit up.

Tata Power continues to serve its neighboring communities, and intends to invest in increasing the community's access to better living standards.