Solar power lights up 130 homes in Periyapatna, HD Kote taluks of Mysuru district

Mysuru: For the first time, 130 households across villages in Periyapatna and HD Kote taluks of Mysuru district now have access to electricity through solar power installations.The households have been provided solar-powered electricity through individual solar panels with battery systems that offer up to 72 hours of backup. The installations were carried out in Maralikatte Hadi, Linganapura, Mutthur and Malangi villages in Periyapatna taluk, including a forest village, and Motha Girijana Haadi in HD Kote taluk.According to Braja Kishore Pradhan, CEO and founder of Aahwahan Foundation, the installations were taken up in 2025 after a feasibility study assessed local needs and conditions. The work was implemented under Project Chirag with support from Steelcase Asia Pacific Holdings.Pradhan said the project provided each household with an independent solar system instead of a centralised grid connection. He said 130 homes—most of them mud structures—were fitted with lighting systems for kitchens, bedrooms, study areas and outdoor spaces, with provisions for fans and mobile charging.Pradhan said the battery units are enclosed in protective boxes to ensure safety and durability, and the systems can provide up to 72 hours of backup during periods without sunlight. He said this is significant as the region receives rainfall for nearly six months each year. He added that the batteries come with a five-year warranty, while the solar panels carry a lifetime warranty.Residents said access to electricity has brought changes to daily life. Chetan, village president of Maralikatte Haadi in Periyapatna taluk, said the village earlier had no electricity supply. He said the new installations have improved safety at night, made daily chores easier for women, allowed children to study after sunset, and helped support small household livelihoods.