Background
At the Saisurni Sub-Centre, located in Thuamul Rampur block of Kalahandi district, Odisha, SELCO Foundation has successfully installed a Solar Photovoltaic (PV) system. This health facility caters to a population of approximately 5,000 people at the panchayat level. It serves as a delivery point for the block.
Intervention/Solution
Intervention: Solar energy system System Capacity - Inverter capacity - 1 kW Battery capacity - 480 Ah Panel capacity - 1 kW
Problem Statement
This sub-centre, located in the forested block of Kalahandi, experienced frequent electricity outages, severely affecting the delivery of essential health services. As a result, many services were restricted or delivered only a few times a week, when power was available. Delivery was conducted using torch lights, which put the staff and the pregnant woman at risk.
Impact
Patient Footfall: The centre serves around 200 patients per month.
Maternal Health Services : An average of 15 deliveries are conducted monthly.
24/7 Health Services : With reliable electricity, the Nursing Officer now resides at the facility, enabling round-the-clock healthcare services and emergency response, especially for maternal cases.
Improved Service Delivery : The availability of consistent power has enhanced the efficiency, safety, and confidence in the delivery of healthcare services, particularly during night-time and emergency procedures. This intervention by SELCO Foundation demonstrates the critical role of decentralized renewable energy in strengthening rural healthcare infrastructure, ensuring energy security, and improving health outcomes in underserved areas.
