Shanina Mercedia van Gent’s Post

Did you know that Sun King and Essmart share an 11 year old relationship as a manufacturer and distributor? Executing such a project for a supplier was not just a reassurance of our ability to bring rural Insights to our own suppliers but was also a grand reinforcement of our belief in being able to help create better products for rural customers in India for us at Essmart. Congratulations to our team in the execution of this project with over 300 interviews in 5 states. The products were even installed at user locations for analysis of usage and on the ground feedback. It was a great testimony to the fact that we are truly a dynamic team. The results from the interviews conducted across India were of course very interesting and oftentimes even surprising. If you are looking for deep user research from a sticky network in rural India through longstanding relationships with end users, farmers, retailers, co-operatives, SHGs and FPOs to test or refine your products and not just a dipstick analysis, please do get in touch with our Insights team. The research can be done at any stage of development for various parameters such as design, performance, pricing, usage, competition, packaging or even user acceptance at a time and budget that suits your needs. Essmart's rural market research is a unique platform to test products and services through an unbiased approach of an independent distributor's network with a rigorous framework and a methodical approach. #ruralmarketresearch #cocreateforrural #connectingpeopleandtechnology #insights #markettesting #betatesting #userresearch #ethnography #thinkruralthinkessmart #shopsmartshopessmart #marketresearch #distribution #ruralmarkets #ruralusers #makeforindia #makeforbharat

Essmart is proud to share the successful completion of our latest collaboration with Sun King, the world's leading off-grid solar provider. Sun King equips communities, families and businesses living in, often remote, off-grid and weak-grid locations with access to reliable solar energy to power access to brighter lives. 📑 Our market research study with Sun King has been instrumental in uncovering crucial insights to ensure the successful launch of their latest product line in India. Our comprehensive study delved deep into understanding the needs and preferences of rural consumers, aiming to identify the optimal customer segments and craft an effective communication strategy. 🔍 Our research journey took us across 7 states, immersing us in local markets and gathering insights directly from households, institutions, SMEs, retailers and distributors. 📊 Additionally, we supplemented our primary research with comprehensive secondary research. This included analyzing state-wise electrification rates, regional challenges, and government schemes, all aimed at enhancing our insights into rural market dynamics. ⏰ Timing is crucial, especially with the Indian government's policy push towards solar, making our insights all the more timely and relevant. Through this thorough approach, we gained invaluable insights into the market's receptiveness to sustainable energy solutions in a pan-Indian context. Our long-standing partnership with Sun King as their last mile distributor has been key to this collaborative effort, underscoring Essmart's commitment to sustainable energy solutions. 🎉 Cheers to everyone involved in this project, and stay tuned for more updates on our collaborations! Sahil Khanna Surabhi Sharma Achieng Butler Allan O. Anuj Majumdar Athreya Chakragiri Gautam Ladha Hridesh Harinarayanan Kushal Chahar Prashanth Venkataramana Shanina Mercedia van Gent Sam Viney #Solar #OffGrid #SustainableEnergy #MarketResearch #Insights

Embracing a net-zero future is on everyone's minds, but let's address the speed breaker in this journey—rooftop solar. As per a report by CEEW, India’s rooftop solar potential is 637 GW against which actual installation is a meagre 11 GW of which less than 25% is residential. Despite its potential, the perception lingers in the minds of residential consumers that installing rooftop solar is akin to managing a complex power plant. The same person who opts to check emissions of the aircraft they are travelling from may not even contemplate about installing a rooftop solar thinking that it might become a safety hazard over his head. It's time to debunk this myth! Your rooftop solar isn't a headache; it's a plug-and-play system with minimal maintenance and attractive financial perks like subsidies and tariff arbitrage. Imagine the impact rooftop solar can create in a country receiving over 300 sunny days in a year. While the Suryodaya scheme aims to install 1 Crore rooftop solar systems in next 2 years, unlocking the potential of 10 Crore or even more installations begins with reshaping public perception. Let's inspire change and invite innovative minds in advertising to craft narratives that simplifies rooftop solar for all. It's time to shine a new light on sustainable energy for a brighter, cleaner future! 💡🌞 Do your bit in India’s journey to net zero, adopt Rooftop Solar. #RooftopRevolution #SustainableEnergy #NetZero

India enjoys over 300 days a year of sunshine, enabling our communities to benefit from this clean power source for the majority of the year. Our sustainability focus flows through every detail in our buildings. One such area is the use of photovoltaic (or solar) panels on top of our properties. Paving the way to net-zero spaces, our sustainable constructions and eco-friendly buildings are what define our long-term values of a greener business ecosystem for future generations. This application of solar panels is not only greener for our communities but also aligns with India's national initiative to become a world leader in solar power. #RMZCorp #India #Sustainability #Solar #Power #NetZero #Energy

The integration of solar energy in modern homes is more than just a trend; it's a necessity for sustainable living and responsible business. Embassy Group is at the forefront of this initiative, particularly in a country like India, where the sun shines for over 300 days a year. By installing photovoltaic panels on our properties, we are not only contributing to a cleaner, greener community but also supporting India's ambitious goals to become a global leader in solar energy. Our focus on sustainability is comprehensive, influencing every aspect of our construction process. Solar panels significantly contribute to our vision of creating net-zero spaces—buildings that produce as much energy as they consume. This not only lowers electricity costs for residents but also reduces the carbon footprint, making it a win-win situation for all. Embassy's commitment to solar energy is an embodiment of our long-term values for a greener business ecosystem, benefiting both current and future generations. By aligning with national initiatives, we aim to redefine what it means to be a modern, eco-friendly residence in today's world.

Sparking Change: India's Residential Rooftop Solar Initiative India's central government introduces a game-changing program to boost residential rooftop solar projects. With Central Financial Assistance (CFA), households receive subsidies up to 3 kW capacity. A 1 kW system gets ₹30,000, 2 kW gets ₹60,000, and 3 kW or more receives ₹78,000. This initiative makes solar energy affordable and accessible, aligning with India's clean energy goals. By embracing solar power, communities reduce costs, combat climate change, and foster sustainability. It's a step towards a brighter, greener future for all. "Welcome to Next Solar Solution, where we harness the power of the sun to create a brighter tomorrow! 🌞 Join us as we revolutionize the way we power our world with sustainable solar solutions. From residential rooftops to commercial ventures, we're here to illuminate your path to a cleaner, greener future. Let's shine together! #SolarEnergy #CleanPower #RenewableRevolution"

The Government has just launched the Star Labeling Programme (SLP) for Solar Photovoltaic Modules (PVM) 🌟. It's a game-changer for solar energy in India! With solar panels transforming sunlight into electric energy, this initiative helps YOU make informed choices when deploying solar PVM or solar panels. 🌍💡 Here's why you should be thrilled about it: ✨ India's solar panel installations grew at an impressive 30% CAGR from 2014 to 2022! 📈☀️ ✨ The program starts as voluntary for two years but will become COMPULSORY afterward. 🙌 ✨ Upgrading from a 1-Star to 5-Star solar PVM can result in a remarkable 35% increase in electricity generation! 🌟🔌 ✨ And it doesn't stop there - we're on track to cut carbon dioxide emissions by a whopping 30 million tonnes per year by 2030! 🌎🌱 About SLP: 📆 Launched in 2006 under the Ministry of Power. 🎯 Objective: Empower consumers to make energy-efficient choices and save money. 🏭 Implemented by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), established under the Energy Conservation Act, 2001. 💡 BEE leads other vital initiatives like Star Rating of Commercial Buildings, Eco Niwas Samhita, Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT), and more. 🔌 It's MANDATORY for 15 appliances and VOLUNTARY for 20, including Solar PVM. 🌬️ Achieved a staggering reduction of almost 58 million tonnes of CO2 emissions per year! 🌟 This is leap towards a greener and brighter future. 🎉🌞 Let's embrace solar power and contribute to a sustainable tomorrow. 🌿💚 #SolarPower #SustainableEnergy #StarLabelingProgramme #CleanEnergy #GoGreen #SolarPanel #Environment #India #RenewableEnergy #BEE #GreenFuture #ClimateAction #CleanTech #EcoFriendly #SaveThePlanet #Trending #Viral #Followers #Connections🌏

In a monumental move towards clean energy and sustainability, the Indian government has slashed bureaucratic red tape, making it easier for homeowners to install rooftop solar panels. This streamlined approval process comes as part of a larger initiative to accelerate the country's clean energy goals. Gone are the days of navigating through a labyrinth of signatures; now, setting up #rooftopsolar connections is nearly instantaneous. Shreya Mishra, CEO of SolarSquare Energy, a leading rooftop solar company, shares her experience: "We had to get 45 signatures to set up a small rooftop solar connection in 2021. Today, it's almost instantaneous." But that's not all – the government has also announced a whopping $9 billion in subsidies for homeowners adopting rooftop solar panels. This significant investment aims to drive even faster adoption of this crucial technology, despite the initial upfront costs. Ruchika Chahana, a resident of New Delhi, underscores the long-term benefits: "It is a little expensive, but it's totally worth it." Her monthly energy bills have plummeted from $200 to $50 since installing rooftop solar panels, showcasing both financial savings and environmental impact. Indeed, making clean, renewable energy accessible to homeowners is a win-win scenario. Not only does it reduce air pollution and ease strain on the energy grid, but it also enhances the quality of life for citizens. While challenges persist, such as recent setbacks in California due to cuts in solar-related credits, the success stories in India highlight the transformative power of government subsidies in driving sustainability and cost savings. Let's continue to champion clean energy initiatives and pave the way for a brighter, greener future for all! #cleanenergy #sustainability #solarrevolution #cleanenergy

A Solar Revolution 🌞: Monalee Fuels Growth Nationwide Solar power is not just the future; it's here, now, redefining how we run our homes sustainably. Monalee, an innovative climate tech company, isn't just riding the green wave—they're expanding it across the United States, empowering thousands to harness the sun's energy. Their recent expansion plans, buoyed by a successful seed round, spotlight a pivotal moment in renewable energy accessibility. Monalee's platform demystifies the solar panel buying process, offering seamless, digitised service. The result? Premium solar energy at half the cost and double the efficiency, side-stepping the industry's all-too-common high-pressure sales. Monalee's approach isn't merely cutting costs; it's a beacon of trust and affordability in the solar sector. Their achievement is profound—over 1,900 households now revel in the joys of solar-powered living, protecting both their wallets and the planet. And as the company takes aim at another ten states by year's end, their increasing footprint counters the contraction seen elsewhere in the solar industry. Currently spanning 24 states, from Alabama to Virginia, Monalee's green footprint is an ode to sustainable growth in an age of environmental consciousness. Are you ready to join the solar movement? What could green energy solutions like Monalee mean for your household savings and ecological footprint? 🌱 #SolarPower #CleanEnergy #SustainableLiving

The Government has just launched the Star Labelling Programme for Solar Panels, a game-changer introduced by Union Minister R. K. Singh. Here's some key points to understand: ▪️Purpose: The program aims to empower citizens like you in making informed decisions when it comes to purchasing and deploying solar panels, enhancing awareness about their efficiency. ▪️Program Duration: Operating from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2025, with no labelling fee during this period. ▪️Global Leadership: India is making strides as a world leader in renewable energy. The government's commitment includes reducing emission intensity by 45% by 2030. ▪️Performance Standards: Expect performance standards that inform you about the cost and energy savings of solar panels, aligning with the larger goal of reducing emissions. ▪️Consumer Empowerment: No more relying solely on installer information! The program enables you to assess and choose solar panels based on their efficiency. ▪️Emissions Reduction: Anticipating a significant reduction of carbon dioxide emissions by 30 million tonnes per annum by 2030. ▪️Industry Engagement: Minister Singh urges solar panel manufacturers to voluntarily join the initiative. While voluntary for the first two years, it may become compulsory later. ▪️Made in India Initiative: Exciting plans ahead! The government is working towards 100% Made in India and high-quality solar panels, with future goals of producing PV cells and wafers in India. ▪️Guidance for Ordinary Citizens: The Star Labelling Programme is designed to provide essential guidance to everyday citizens like you in choosing sustainable solar solutions. ▪️Retail Consumer Contribution: Your role is crucial in the growth of solar rooftops. The ordinary citizen, the retail consumer, plays a major part in achieving energy efficiency goals. This initiative is a monumental leap towards a sustainable future, and its impact will resonate for years to come. As someone passionate about renewable energy, I believe this program not only empowers consumers but also propels our nation closer to its ambitious environmental goals. The emphasis on informed decision-making, reduced emissions, and the push for 100% Made in India solar panels showcase a commitment to innovation and sustainability. I envision a future where every rooftop is adorned with efficient, eco-friendly solar panels, and this program is a crucial step in that direction. The Solar Consultant #RenewableEnergy #SolarPower #Policy #Sustainability #StarLabellingProgramme