The Hindu 19.09.2009
State’s nod for implementation of ‘solar cities’ project by VMC
Staff Reporter
NEDCAP is the nodal agency for implementation of the project
A master plan, having database of power consumption, will be prepared
VIJAYAWADA: The State Government on Friday approved implementation of “solar cities” project by the Vijayawada Municipal Corporation (VMC) following the “in principle” approval already given by the Union Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE).
The project is aimed at promoting the use of renewable energy and empowering the urban local bodies to address energy challenges at the city level. The MNRE would provide a grant of Rs. 10 lakh per annum to the VMC for implementing the project.
Vijayawada is one of the 15 cities across the country chosen by the MNRE for implementation of the five-year project. As it is estimated that 14.73 lakh tonnes of carbon monoxide is generated in the city every year, the “solar city” project would help the VMC in recycling its wastes and reduce carbon emissions that have become a threat to the environment.
The programme is useful for the city in promoting the use of renewable energy activities.
Training programmes
The goal is to promote the use of renewable energy in urban areas by providing support to the municipal corporations for preparation and implementation of a road map to develop cities as “solar cities”. The activities in the programme are preparation of a master plan, setting up of a solar city cell, organising training programmes, workshops and the like.
The Non-Conventional Energy Development Corporation of Andhra Pradesh Limited (NEDCAP) is the nodal agency for implementation of the project.
The master plan would be prepared with a database of electricity consumption in the city and the estimated carbon emission levels. It will set a goal of a minimum 10 per cent reduction in projected total demand of conventional energy at the end of five years, to be achieved through energy saving from energy efficiency measures and generation from renewable energy installations, officials said.
Agreement
The Corporation had entered into an agreement with the International Council for Local Environment Initiative (South Asia) and the British High Commission to implement the project to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save power consumption and, thereby, conserve the environment.
The ICLEI, South Asia and the British High Commission will help the VMC by providing logistical support through Eco-budget Asia, Local Renewable Model Community Network Project, Development of Customised Emission Tools and Clean Development Mechanism, the officials said.
