The New Indian Express 09.04.2010
Solar energy to power city
KOCHI: An ambitious programme to make Kochi the first solar city in the state will be launched soon by the civic body. The Kochi Corporation is seeking help from the Central and State Governments in this regard. It will also look into the possibilities of getting support from organisations, including Rotary clubs, to make this project a reality.
Major solar energy systems will be installed to power streetlights, garden lights and some of the administrative offices. “The idea struck us during an energy exhibition that was organised in the city last month,” said Deputy Mayor C K Manisankar.
He said that the main aim of the project was to power the city and promote increased use of renewable energy. Initially, solar lights will be installed at public places including Subhash Chandra Bose Park, Fort Kochi Nehru Park, Kunnara Park, Fort Kochi beach and Jankar Jetty.
The Fort Kochi zonal office, East-West UPAD office and the Town Hall will also be refurbished with solar lights.
“The administrative offices of the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, secretary, additional secretary, KSUDP and C-HED will be installed with solar lights,” Manisankar said.
The Corporation’s main office and Council Hall will also be powered by solar lights. He said that the project engineer has already been instructed to conduct a preliminary study in this regard.
“He is expected to complete it by the end of this month,” the Deputy Mayor said.
The Corporation will also seek the aid of the Agency for Non-Conventional Energy and Rural Technology (ANERT) for the implementation of the project.
ANERT is the nodal agency for the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy Sources, Government of India, to carry out the Central Government programmes in Kerala.
“The agency used to conduct studies, implement and support implementation of schemes and projects related to conventional energy sources.
Once we are able to reach an agreement with ANERT, we can seek help from the Central Government for funds,” Manisankar said.
The Corporation in its 2010-11 budget has made an allocation of Rs 50 lakh for the project.
