Success StoriesFrom Engineer to Entrepreneur: This Man Lighting Up Rural India with Solar...

From Engineer to Entrepreneur: This Man Lighting Up Rural India with Solar Energy: A Journey from Small Town Beginnings to Green Tech Pioneer with a Passion for Sustainability and Rural Development”

SSR Green Tech Energy Private Limited: Pioneering Sustainable Future with Over 3,000 People Trained, 2,520 Households Powered, and 2,705 Tons of CO2 Reduced Annually

Syed Safik Rahman was born on July 15, 1992, in the small town of Nuapada in Odisha, India. He was raised in a family dedicated to social service and education. His father, Syed Azizur Rahman, was a retired bank manager and a committed social activist, while his mother, Mrs. Sajahan Rahman, served as the treasurer of the Rahat Charitable Foundation.

From a young age, Syed Safik was an enthusiastic learner and showed exceptional promise in his academic endeavors. He completed his X Std. at National High School in Nuapada in 2007, earning the title of “Student of the Year” during the school’s golden jubilee celebration. He completed his XII Std. at Hi-Tech Science College in Bhubaneswar, under CHSE, Odisha.

Rahman pursued higher education with a focus on engineering and law. He obtained his Bachelor of Technology (B. Tech) in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Gandhi Engineering College, Bhubaneswar, in 2013. His academic journey did not stop there; he also earned a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from Utkal University between 2014 and 2017. Currently, he is expanding his knowledge by pursuing a Postgraduate Level Advanced Certificate in Sustainability Engineering and Smart Cities from the prestigious Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, slated for completion in 2024.

Professional Journey and Impact:

Following his graduation, Safik honed his skills as a Graduate Engineer Trainee (GET) at BRG Iron & Steel Co. (P). Ltd., gaining valuable experience in the industrial sector. However, his true calling lay in the field of sustainability. In 2018, he took a leap of faith, leaving behind lucrative job offers to establish SSR Green Tech Energy Private Limited, a company focused on delivering cost-effective solar power solutions to rural India. This bold decision marked the beginning of a transformative journey for both Safik and the communities he serves.

Since its inception, SSR Green Tech Energy Private Limited has installed a total of 1.67 MW of renewable energy capacity, benefiting over 2,520 households and 21 communities across Odisha. This impressive figure is a testament to the company’s dedication to bringing clean, sustainable energy to rural areas. Safik’s team has implemented a diverse range of projects, including solar-powered micro-irrigation systems, community drinking water supplies, and standalone solar street lighting systems, demonstrating a commitment to addressing a wide range of needs.

Beyond its impressive scale, SSR Green Tech Energy Private Limited has made a profound environmental impact. The company has avoided an estimated 1.3 tons of CO2e emissions, saving 3,047.75 MWh of energy annually. This translates to a significant reduction in carbon footprint – approximately 2,705.4 tons of CO2e per year. Furthermore, the company has implemented projects that save an estimated 31,730 liters of water every day, demonstrating a commitment to responsible resource management.

The impact of SSR Green Tech Energy Private Limited extends beyond the environment. The company has created over 100 jobs, trained over 3,000 individuals in renewable energy technologies, and engaged 27 communities in sustainable practices. These initiatives highlight Safik’s dedication to building a sustainable future for rural India, not just through technological innovation but also through community empowerment and knowledge transfer.

This dedication to sustainability extends to the company’s own operations, with 90% of its energy needs met by renewable sources. This commitment to internal sustainability further solidifies SSR Green Tech Energy Private Limited’s position as a leader in the field of sustainable development.

His achievements include:

  • Green Future Leadership Award: Recognizing his contributions to promoting sustainable practices.
  • Appreciation Letter for New Product Development: Awarded by NIT, Raipur.
  • Certificate of Appreciation for Outstanding Contribution: Received from IIT, Bombay for his participation in a global student ambassadors workshop.

Significant Events and Experiences

Childhood Memories:

Syed Safik Rahman’s childhood was filled with activities that shaped his future. He achieved the sergeant rank in the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Junior Division Army wing, clearing the A Certificate Examination, and attended both the National Integration Camp and Annual Training Camp. As a child scientist, he represented Nuapada District at the National Children Science Congress in class 9th. His academic and extracurricular excellence was recognized with numerous awards in district-level science exhibitions, debate competitions, and quiz competitions. In 10th grade, he was honored with the “Student of the Year” award during National High School, Nuapada’s Golden Jubilee celebration.

Key Turning Points:

A pivotal moment in Rahman’s life was his decision to leave job offers behind and start SSR Green Tech Energy Private Limited. This bold move set him on a path to becoming a leader in the renewable energy sector.

Significant Achievements:

Rahman’s significant achievements include creating a successful business model for SSR Green Tech and making substantial contributions to prestigious government projects that directly benefit people, the planet, and profitability.

Moments of Pride:

Rahman takes great pride in his work on government projects that address key issues of sustainability and development. His efforts in these projects have not only brought him recognition but also made a tangible difference in the lives of many.

Social Life and Interests

Beyond his professional life, Syed Safik Rahman is deeply committed to social work and environmental sustainability. His hobbies include staying updated on new technologies, listening to music, and playing badminton. He is also passionate about social initiatives like tree plantation drives and educating the public about “Go Green” initiatives.

Mentors and Influences

Rahman credits much of his success to the guidance and inspiration he received from influential figures in his life. Notable among them are Dr. Prof. Balachandra Patil, Chief Research Scientist at IISc Bangalore, and Dr. Asst. Prof. Baidyanath Bag of NIT Raipur. Additionally, he draws inspiration from Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, the former President of India, whose teachings on education and innovation continue to motivate him.

Challenges and Triumphs

Like any entrepreneur, Rahman has faced numerous challenges, particularly during the initial stages of establishing SSR Green Tech. Securing project acquisitions, managing investments, and implementing projects were significant hurdles he overcame with resilience and strategic planning. His ability to navigate these challenges successfully is a testament to his determination and visionary leadership.

Philosophy and Future Aspirations

Syed Safik Rahman’s life philosophy centers around ethical living and contributing meaningfully to society. He believes in the equality of all human beings and upholds the principles of Islam that emphasize piety and moral excellence. His future aspirations include pursuing higher studies and continuing research and innovation in the field of sustainability. He dreams of providing cost-effective solar power solutions to rural India, addressing the need for social, environmental, and economic sustainability.

Legacy

Syed Safik Rahman hopes to be remembered as a sustainability activist and a green leader. His contributions to renewable energy and his efforts in improving the quality of life for the rural populace of India are a significant part of his legacy. His guiding mantra, “No Need to Give up, Forward! We want Motivation, Creation, Innovations, Positive Mindset, Patience; then only better future will be achieved,” encapsulates his enduring optimism and commitment to a sustainable future.

Syed Safik Rahman’s journey from a small town in Odisha to becoming a prominent figure in the field of renewable energy and sustainability is a story of dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.

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