Panasonic India launched its 100 thousand solar lantern project, a project to contribute 100,000 solar LED lights to people without electricity by 2018, the year which would mark the 100 th anniversary of the company.

By the end of this fiscal year Panasonic plans to contribute 10,000 units of solar lights in 3 regions across Asia and Africa. As the first stage, 3000 solar lights were distributed in February in Myanmar. About 5,000 compact solar lights have been allotted to off-grid areas in India and 2,000 more will be given to a refugee camp in Africa, according to a statement from the company.

Panasonic's solar lights can be used as a small lighting fixture at night. It poses no risk of fire or harm to human health, and generates no CO2 emissions during use.

This project in India has been launched in collaboration with four leading NGO's and social enterprises to tackle social issues by contributing 5,000 units of solar lights in fiscal year 2012. These include the World Health Partners, Swayam Shikshan Prayog, Plan International India and Sahaj in the areas of Bihar, Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal.

The company also plans to enable medical care service at night to promote the healthcare campaign for bottom of the pyramid.

"There is a severe imbalance in demand and supply of power and India risks facing an energy crisis. Renewable energy can help improve the situation to a large extent as it is no longer considered as an 'alternate energy' source; rather it is expected to play a significant role in helping meet the nation's energy needs. There is no disputing the power of clean, renewable energy in the present world and the contribution of solar lights to non-electrified areas is a one of its kind initiative by Panasonic which will help solve various existing social issues," said Tarun Kapoor, Joint Secretary, Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, Government of India.