Empowering Women with Solar Skills Training

Introduction

Rural women across India remain among the most affected by climate change, while also holding real potential to lead the country’s shift toward clean energy. Through its Climate Resilience programming, the Desai Foundation trains women aged 18 to 35 in rural communities to set up, maintain, and repair solar panels, equipping them with technical skills that open doors to steady income and a stronger role in India’s renewable energy sector. 

This training is part of the Desai Foundation’s broader work, which has now reached more than 12 million people across rural India. The Solar Skills Training program channels that same community-driven approach toward a growing industry, helping women build financial independence while contributing to a cleaner environment for their communities. 

Program Impact

• A second batch of 50 women completed training in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh (25 in solar panel installation and maintenance; 25 in EV driving and upkeep). 
• Over 90% of participants are engaged in internships with solar panel and EV businesses. 
• 30% have secured full-time jobs in the renewable energy sector. 

Sustaining and Growing the Program 

Alongside the training itself, the Desai Foundation is pursuing new partnerships to sustain and scale this work. This quarter, the team submitted applications to the White Feather Foundation, the Zayed Sustainability Prize, and the Henry Niles Foundation.

Conclusion

The Solar Skills Training program continues to show what’s possible when rural women are given the tools and trust to lead. By building technical expertise and connecting participants directly to employers, the program is opening real pathways to economic independence while advancing a greener, more resilient India. 

The work also chips away at long-standing assumptions about which jobs are and are not for women. Every woman who installs a solar panel or maintains an EV rickshaw is helping redefine what’s possible for the next generation in her community.