EKI Receives Gates Foundation Grant for Surya Nutan Solar Cooking Initiative

Solar Cooker
Image Courtesy: Pixabay

EKI Energy Services (EKI), a global provider of carbon credits, announced on Monday that it has secured a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) to advance its Surya Nutan solar cooking project. Developed in collaboration with Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL), the Surya Nutan initiative promotes sustainable indoor solar cooking systems aimed at benefiting tribal and underserved communities across India. The grant will support the project’s implementation in select districts of Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra.

The Surya Nutan device, powered entirely by solar energy, requires no maintenance, offering a clean and sustainable cooking solution. EKI Chairman and Managing Director Manish Dabkara highlighted the grant’s importance in evaluating the project’s socio-economic benefits, such as reduced indoor air pollution, improved health, and enhanced livelihoods. This data will further inform efforts to address equity in clean energy access.

While the company has not disclosed the grant amount, this partnership underscores EKI’s commitment to sustainable development and equitable energy solutions. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is one of the world’s largest and most influential philanthropic organizations, dedicated to addressing global challenges in health, education, and economic development.

Established in 2000 by Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft, and Melinda French Gates, the foundation focuses on improving quality of life for people in underprivileged communities, particularly in developing nations. Its initiatives target critical areas such as eradicating infectious diseases, advancing gender equality, enhancing agricultural productivity, and increasing access to education and technology. With a collaborative approach, the foundation partners with governments, non-profits, and private sector organizations to drive impactful and scalable solutions to some of the world’s most pressing issues.

EKI Energy Services Ltd. (EKI), established in 2008, is a leading global developer and supplier of carbon credits, committed to driving climate action and sustainability. Headquartered in India, the company supports businesses and governments in transitioning to low-carbon solutions through services like carbon offsetting, climate advisory, and energy management.

EKI has been instrumental in projects spanning renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable community initiatives, aligning with global climate goals. With its innovative approach and focus on equitable growth, EKI not only addresses environmental challenges but also empowers underserved communities by promoting clean energy access and sustainable development practices.