For the students at Government Senior Secondary School (GSSS), Swami Ka Gaon, in Barmer, Rajasthan, each school day used to be a battle against the odds. With frequent power cuts and rising summer temperatures, studying in the classroom was becoming uncomfortable in the absence of lights and fans. The electric water pump lay silent and digital learning tools gathered dust — waiting for power supply that never lasted beyond an hour.

“Our students endured a lot. Studying in dark, overheated classrooms was difficult for them and we too faced challenges in managing school operations. Basic tasks like sending reports or communicating with the education department over email were delayed because we did not have a consistent power supply,” recalls Mr. Bhanwar Singh Rathod, the school’s Physical Training Instructor.

But things changed with the installation of solar panels under the Lighting Lives initiative.  “Today, we have power throughout the day. Our computer lab is running efficiently, digital classrooms are always in use and we can now use basic infrastructure like fans, lights, water pumps and coolers without interruption,” says Mr. Rathod.

The change is more than technical — it is deeply personal for students like Seema, a bright-eyed Class 9 student and the youngest of five siblings. Her home does not have a steady power supply. The classroom, now reliably lit and cooled by solar power, has become her sanctuary — a place where dreams like becoming an IAS officer can be pursued with vigour.

“I want to serve the nation and empower women.” she says.

Her classmate Mahesh, another Class 9 student with a flair for IT and a passion for Kabaddi, has finally found the space to nurture both. “Now I can learn more with the help of the smart TV.” he shares. A natural all-rounder, Mahesh supports his teachers in the computer lab while also preparing for his goal of joining the Indian Army.

Even the school’s greenery has benefited. The once-dry grounds are now watered regularly, thanks to solar-powered pumps. “Our plantation drives used to be stalled because we could not get water without electricity. Now, maintaining the greenery is much easier,” Mr. Rathod notes.

During board exams, GSSS Swami Ka Gaon also serves as a centre for students from nearby villages. “Earlier, examinees had to struggle in heat and dim light. Now, with proper lighting and fans, they can write their exams in comfort,” he adds.

This is the quiet power of renewable energy — not just lighting up rooms but enabling potential.

Climate change has a far-reaching impact on human life, with children often being among the most vulnerable. Recognising this challenge, Habitat for Humanity India in partnership with ReNew and HSBC decided to implement Lighting Lives, a CSR initiative. In the first two phases (2022-24), 88 schools were equipped with solar energy and 83 schools were equipped with digital labs in Gujarat, Karnataka and Rajasthan. Lighting Lives also raised awareness about climate change to nurture a new generation of young climate champions through a special curriculum. In phase three (2024-25), sustainable solar energy solutions have been established in 54 government schools in Rajasthan and Maharashtra. The fourth phase of the intervention is underway in Rajasthan and Maharashtra.