Theni set to become pioneer in solar energy in Tamil Nadu

In a first, Theni district administration has launched solar energy system in tribal habitation with the support from NABARD and Municipal Administration.

Launching the ambitious project for the small population of tribes in Nochiodai tribal settlement, the core area spread over 32 kilometres comprising 18 families with 76 people, the officials led by District Collector R Vaithinathan and among others were in an upbeat mood.

The beneficiaries from Nochiodai, who were present at the launch function at the District Collectorate, were emotionally charged as many of their children were going to experience light at their dwellings, street lights and are going to watch television, which was not the case in the past.

The NABARD chief general manager (TN and Puducherry) Manoj, Srivilliputtur Megamalai Tiger Reserve (Megamalai Division) Deputy Director Vivek Kumar P Yadav, NABARD District Development Manager Robinson Raja, DRO Rajkumar and among others were present.

In his address, the Collector Mr Vaithinathan said that the district had proposed to popularise installation of solar energy in a big way as it would enable to protect the eco-system. The idea was to enhance the livelihood of people in isolated locations and also to give them the basic amenities.

Thanking the NABARD and the Municipal Administration for their overwhelming support in executing the project, he said that through Farmers Producers Organisation, Rs 27.30 lakh would be spent in establishing the solar system for the tribal village.

He was hopeful that the people in the hamlet would have safety and security during nights and wished their standards of living too improved.

The beneficiaries, who were selling honey, coffee, pepper, cardamom and other produce grown from the habitation said that they were immensely honoured and upbeat to have the facility. There would be 36 solar street lights, LED fittings at dwellings and among others.

In another meeting, the Collector said that they were keen to promote roof top solar and net metering in extension areas and at multi-storey apartments in the district. A press release said that high rise buildings can set up solar energy up to three kilo watt and get a maximum of Rs 78000 as subsidy from Union government and another Rs 22000 from TN government. The banks are also willing to provide loans towards the project.

The TANGEDCO officials led by its Superintending Engineer Natrajan, DRO Rajkumar, Project Director Thushar Srihar Shinde, who were present at a review meeting, presided over by the Collector, said that by installing solar power, the electricity bill to the TANGEDCO would drop substantially. Hence, the house owners should be encouraged to set up the solar system.