In a remarkable stride toward clean energy and rural empowerment, Dhordo village in Gujarat’s Kutch district has become fully solar-powered. This achievement not only reflects India’s push towards sustainability but also positions Dhordo as a symbol of rural innovation on the global map.
Recognised by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) as one of the ‘Best Tourism Villages’, Dhordo has now joined the league of Gujarat’s solar-powered villages—alongside Modhera, Sukhi, and Masali.
Solar Power in Dhordo: A Grassroots Revolution
The transformation has been implemented under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, a national scheme that promotes rooftop solar panels in residential areas.
- 81 households in Dhordo are now fitted with solar rooftops.
- The total installed capacity is 177 kilowatts, expected to generate 2.95 lakh units of electricity annually.
This means each home not only powers itself but also contributes surplus electricity to the grid—marking a shift from energy consumers to energy producers.
Economic Gains for Villagers
One of the most compelling aspects of this solar transition is its financial impact:
- Annual electricity savings per home: ₹16,064
- Total community savings and income from surplus energy: Over ₹13 lakh/year
These savings ease the financial burden on villagers and foster economic self-reliance, especially in remote areas where incomes are often unstable.
Importantly, the project was made accessible through government subsidies and bank financing, ensuring affordability for all households.
Gujarat: A Pioneer in Renewable Energy
With four villages now fully solarised, Gujarat continues to lead India’s renewable energy movement. The state has integrated sustainability into its rural development model, combining technology, policy, and local governance.
Gujarat’s approach goes beyond energy—it is about rural empowerment, infrastructure development, and climate resilience.
Voices from the Ground: Local Leadership and Community Pride
Miyan Hussain, the Sarpanch (village head) of Dhordo, attributes the success to collaboration between the central government, state administration, and local leadership.
The shift to solar energy has had a tangible impact on daily life—from reduced electricity bills to improved lighting, cooling, and appliance use. More importantly, it has instilled a sense of pride and ownership within the community.
Environmental Significance: Local Action, Global Impact
Dhordo’s solarisation is not just a village-level achievement—it contributes to India’s broader climate goals, including:
- Reducing dependence on fossil fuels
- Cutting carbon emissions
- Promoting sustainable energy in rural areas
In doing so, Dhordo offers a blueprint for other villages, not just in Gujarat but across India, demonstrating how clean energy can be inclusive, impactful, and replicable.
Conclusion: A Small Village, A Big Step Forward
Dhordo’s journey from a remote desert village to a globally recognised, fully solar-powered community is a testament to what is possible when policy, technology, and people align.
As India pursues its goal of becoming a global leader in renewable energy, stories like Dhordo’s show that real change often begins at the grassroots.