Renewable energy initiatives under the ‘solar city’ project are expected to be launched here before March 2012, as the project plan is being finalised.
Under the initiative, sixty city corporations will get support from the Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) for implementation of projects that promote renewable energy use. The initiative aims to reduce the demand for conventional energy by at least 10 per cent.
As per the plan, Mysore will be developed into a solar city by 2015.
Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Ltd. (KREDL) is providing technical support, while the Mysore City Corporation (MCC) is the implementing agency.
A Mumbai-based consultant presented the project plan to the corporation here on Tuesday. Representatives from the MNRE, KREDL, MCC Commissioner K.S. Raykar, industry representatives and institutions promoting solar energy were present.
Mr. Raykar said they discussed taking up solar energy initiatives such as solar lighting in offices, homes and on the streets, and solar heating, once the project plan was approved by the Ministry.
A solar city cell would be opened to implement the initiatives. Sustainable energy options through public-private partnerships would be encouraged under the project, including power projects based on urban waste and biomass gasification, the Commissioner said.
There were plans to harness solar energy to meet the energy needs of prominent heritage buildings and government offices, he said.
The University of Mysore would be requested to give its nod for setting up a renewable energy park and a biogas plant on its campus as part of the project, Mr. Raykar added.
