Solar Off Grid system installation project at Old Age Home (OPH), Mundgod Doeguling Tibetan Settlement,  Karnataka State (South INDIA) 

PROJECT COMPLETION REPORT 

Project Title:   Solar Off Grid system installation project at Old Age Home (OPH) Block no. 1,
                          Block no. 2 and the terminal care unit, Mundgod Doeguling Tibetan Settlement,
                          Karnataka State (South INDIA) 


Funded by: Initiative Oberland, Germany through Central Tibetan Relief Committee (CTRC), Department of Home, (CTA) 

Project Location: Doeguling Tibetan Settlement, Mundgod, Distt. Uttarakanada (K.S) 

Project Total cost:  INR 18,31,335/-(Rupees Eighteen Lakh Thirty One Thousand Three
                                  Hundred Thirty Five Only) 

Project duration: 25 days (From 5th March to 29th March 2025) 

Background:  

Prior to the implementation of the solar power system, Old People’s Home faced frequent and prolonged electricity outages. Power cuts occurred during thunderstorms, strong winds, and rainy conditions, making it challenging to maintain a stable and reliable power supply. Power fluctuations were also a common issue in OPH. These power disruptions caused significant difficulties for the elderly residents and caregivers such as:  

  1. Many elderly residents have poor eyesight, and some with cognitive impairments tend to wander. Inadequate lighting at night made it difficult to locate and assist them safely.
  2. Without electricity, essential equipment such as the oxygen concentrator, washing machine, and geyser could not function properly, affecting the residents’ well-being.
  3. Without power, residents could not use fans during the hot summer months, making living conditions uncomfortable.
  4. Poor lighting at night increased the risk of falls and accidents, making it unsafe for the elderly to move around the facility.

 Recognizing these urgent needs, Doeguling Tibetan Settlement Office, Mundgod sought funding for this critical project. With the generous funding support from Initiative Oberland, Germany through the Department of Home, Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), Dharamsala, we undertook this solar project in March 2025 to establish a stable and renewable power source for OPH. 

Project Implementation & Monitoring 

The total cost of the solar off-grid system (10.44 kWp) project was INR 18,31,335/-, which included:  

  1. a) INR 1,09,400/- for electrical and fabrication work and 
  2. b) INR 17,21,935/- for the solar off-grid system.

The project commenced on 5th March 2025 with the purchase order for solar panels, inverters, batteries, and other necessary materials from our partner company, Ecosoch, Bangalore. The materials were delivered on 25th March 2025, and 10.44kWp (10,440 watts of power) off grid with 3 numbers Studer Hybrid inverter & 3 numbers Lithium batteries installation began the following day, 26th March 2025. After a smooth and timely installation process, the system was successfully commissioned on 29th March 2025, marking the completion of this important project.   

Before the installation, electrical and fabrication work was completed by electricians and fabricators to ensure readiness for the installation team from Ecosoch. 

Throughout the materials supply at the sites and installation phase, regular monitoring and supervision was done by project dealing staff, OPH manager and staff to ensure smooth progress and adherence to specifications. The Settlement Officer also provided close supervision to ensure the project stayed on schedule and met its objectives. 

 Benefits of the Solar Power System 

  1. The solar system ensures 24 hours electricity, improving the safety, comfort, and wellbeing of elderly residents.
  2. The project significantly reduces electricity expenses, minimizing recurring costs for OPH.
  3. Proper lighting, cooling, and functioning utilities create a safer, more hygienic, and comfortable environment for the elderly.
  4. Essential equipment such as refrigerators, washing machines, geysers, and medical devices now function smoothly without disruption.
  5. The project reduces reliance on an unreliable power grid, ensuring self-sufficiency through renewable energy.

Acknowledgment 

We sincerely thank the Department of Home, Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), Dharamsala, for their unwavering support in implementing this critical project. 

 We extend our deepest gratitude and appreciation to Initiative Oberland, Germany, for their generous funding for this important project at OPH, Mundgod. Their kindness, generosity, and commitment to the well-being of the elderly at OPH have had a profound impact, ensuring that the elderly residents can live in a safe and peaceful environment. 

Without your support, this life-changing initiative would not have been possible. On behalf of all the residents and staff at Old People’s Home, Mundgod, we express our heartfelt gratitude for your compassion and generosity. 

 Thank you for making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.