Prashant Jibhakate

For Prashant, energy means empowerment. The young Indian changemaker has developed plans for a community-led renewable energy cooperative in the tribal districts of Maharashtra. Fully owned and managed by the local community, his collective will provide affordable and sustainable energy solutions to households, businesses, and institutions. And while the focus will be on promoting renewable energy technologies such as solar and wind power, Prashant also plans to integrate indigenous knowledge and practices, such as honey bee keeping and medicinal plant cultivation. The aim of Energy4Empowerment is the creation of a sustainable development model that empowers local communities and promotes environmental sustainability through training and support. Prashant believes it will help to improve the quality of life for local residents and — by reducing their dependence on expensive, polluting energy sources — reduce carbon emissions and mitigate climate change.