Source: TOI
Subject: Miscellaneous
Context: The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) launched LaBL 2.0 (Lighting a Billion Lives 2.0) in New Delhi to expand decentralized renewable energy solutions across India.
About LaBL 2.0 (Lighting a Billion Lives 2.0):
What it is?
- LaBL 2.0 is a next-generation decentralised renewable energy (DRE) programme aimed at expanding clean energy access while enabling productive rural livelihoods and climate action.
- It builds upon the earlier Lighting a Billion Lives initiative (launched in 2008) that focused on providing solar lighting solutions to off-grid communities.
Launched By: The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI)
Aim:
- To expand clean and decentralized renewable energy access in rural and underserved regions.
- To promote green livelihoods and women-led enterprises.
- To integrate climate finance, carbon markets, and sustainable development goals into grassroots energy projects.
Key Features:
- Decentralized Renewable Energy (DRE) Expansion – Promotes solar and other clean energy solutions in off-grid and rural areas.
- Green Livelihoods Creation – Encourages productive use of energy for small businesses and rural enterprises.
- Women-led Entrepreneurship – Focuses on empowering women as clean energy entrepreneurs.
- Carbon Accounting & Climate Outcomes – Integrates Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) frameworks to measure climate benefits.
- Finance-ready Implementation Models – Links decentralized projects with climate finance and carbon markets to attract investment.
- Flagship Projects – Includes initiatives such as Hastinapur Model City, HUDCO Model Solar Village, GCC DRE Carbon Credit Program, and solar technology partnerships.
Significance:
- Supports India’s energy transition and Net Zero 2070 commitments.
- Strengthens rural economic development and employment through clean energy.
