Madhya Pradesh’s Sanchi, famous for its Sanchi Stupa, is set to become one of the first solar cities in India. Officials have announced that MP Urja Vikas Nigam (MPUVN) is setting up two solar stations of 5MW and 3MW capacities in the town.
The smaller plant is being built close to the heritage site, on a land space of 5 hectares.
“The town needs around 3 million units of energy annually. The 3MW plant will meet urban needs and the 5MW plant will be used for meeting agriculture-related requirements,” said Mr. Srikant Deshmukh, superintending engineer at MPUVN, which is the implementing agency for the project.
Apart from the solar plant, more than 300 solar streetlights have been installed across the town. The MP civic body’s pumping station will also be powered by solar energy soon. Further, the civic body will distribute energy-efficient solar lanterns and lights to street vendors and residents.
Moreover, renewable water kiosks are being constructed near the heritage site.
“We plan to develop the 3MW site as a model and inspiration. We have also ordered a wind turbine and carpets that generate energy when you walk on them. We will lay out the carpets at the heritage site and put up display boards that will show the electricity generated as visitors walk on them,” said PK Shandilya, executive engineer of new and renewable energy in Raisen district
The solar plants are being developed on PPP (Public-private partnership) basis and the state government will purchase the generated electricity at a tariff of ₹3.2/unit. The rest of the expenses are being met through CSR funds.
As per reports, the initiative is creating a positive impact in society and residents have begun setting up rooftop solar plants of their own to cut down on electricity bills and contribute to the larger goal of reducing carbon footprint.
Notwithstanding the new projects, MPUVN is also striving on reducing energy consumption in the area by providing energy-efficient equipment along with training to people, carrying out an energy audit of all 20 government buildings in Sanchi, and installing rooftop solar plans over government buildings.
Authorities state that solar Sanchi will be unveiled to the world in May.
Early this year, the MP government announced plans to turn Sanchi into the world’s first net zero city by tapping into resources like rooftop solar projects, solar parks, wind energy, piezoelectric floors, electric vehicles, and even water bodies and forest areas.
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Resource: The Times of India
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