Shillong, March 17: A renewable energy initiative undertaken by the Sauramandala Foundation under the Small Grants Programme (SGP) of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Global Environment Facility (GEF) has been recognised for the Best Innovator Award at the World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS) 2026.
The award was announced as part of the Best Innovation Ideas on Green Practices Awards, which celebrate grassroots initiatives in advancing clean energy adoption, climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods.
The initiative focuses on integrating renewable energy solutions with community-led enterprises in rural areas. Through the programme, solar-powered systems have been introduced to support small businesses, local enterprises and community spaces while improving access to sustainable energy.
By linking renewable energy technologies with local entrepreneurship, the initiative aims to reduce dependence on conventional energy sources while enabling communities to adopt more sustainable practices.
The awards were presented during the thematic session “Women at the Frontlines of Climate Action: Community-Led Pathways to Achieve SDGs”.
