Pune Housing Society Turns to Solar Power, Cuts Electricity Costs with New 40 kW Plant

Pune, 16th March 2026: Residents of a housing society in Pune have taken a decisive step toward cleaner energy and lower electricity bills by installing a solar power plant that will run several of their everyday facilities, from lifts to water pumps.

The Oakwoods Co-operative Housing Society in Viman Nagar recently inaugurated a 40 kW solar power project, marking a significant shift toward sustainable energy use within residential communities. The project was launched in the presence of Aishwarya Surendra Pathare, a corporator from Pune Municipal Corporation’s Ward 3, along with residents of the society.

The solar installation, developed with support from Tata Power, is expected to generate around 5,500 units of electricity every month. The energy produced will be used to operate common amenities in the residential complex, including lifts, water pumps and shared lighting systems. Society members believe the move will significantly reduce monthly electricity expenses while contributing to a greener environment.

What makes the initiative particularly noteworthy is the society’s innovative financial approach. Instead of raising additional funds from residents, the management utilised money from its existing fixed deposits to install the solar plant. To replenish the balance, the society has begun depositing an amount equivalent to its earlier monthly electricity expenditure into a recurring deposit.

According to the society’s office bearers, the savings from solar power are expected to cover the project cost within approximately two years, making it both financially and environmentally beneficial.

Speaking about the initiative, society secretary Mohit Naphade said the project reflects the residents’ collective commitment to adopting eco-friendly solutions that also offer long-term economic advantages. Chairman Rohan Rane and Treasurer Shriram Deshpande also acknowledged the active support of residents in bringing the project to completion.

The initiative highlights a growing trend in Pune, where housing societies are increasingly exploring renewable energy solutions to reduce electricity expenses and carbon footprint. As power costs continue to rise, such community-driven solar projects are emerging as a practical model for urban residential complexes.