SELCO India is a long-time REEEP partner and project implementer, known for its entrepreneurial approach to increasing energy access. The company was founded in 1995, and multiple REEEP-funded projects have helped SELCO to create and adapt solar-energy products that represent income generating opportunities for entreprenuers, often women, and to develop financing models suitable for bottom-of-the-pyramid consumers.
In August 2012, the company’s founder Harish Hande set up the SELCO Incubation Centre, a separate entity that aims to share his knowledge with other social entrepreneurs just starting out, particularly with those who do not speak English. The centre is identifying candidates in northeastern and eastern India, where electrification is low. Those selected will shadow managers in SELCO to understand the business model , the everyday obstacles that are encountered, and the actual end customers.
SELCO will be also launch an Energy Axis Fund to invest in energy-related businesses, including those ventures it incubates, with individual investments in the $500,000-$750,000 range. A recent article on www.moneycontrol.com highlights the Incubation Center in more detail. Go to the article >>