Hebbasuru GP shows the way

In an effort to find solution to load-shedding, the Hebbasuru Gram Panchayat officials have opted to harness solar energy.

Currently, the GP gets just three hours of power supply, which affects official work. The works include issuing of ration cards, NREGA identity cards, smart cards and other government processes, which were hit due to load-shedding. The farmers were forced to make umpteen number of visits to the office to get their work done.

When the GP received Rs 2.2 lakh to improve its basic infrastructure, the members decided to install a solar-based UPS unit to run the office. Solar energy is now used to operate computers, fans, electric bulbs, etc in the office. Solar panels are fixed on the roof of the GP office building. With one KW Solar UPS, four computers, and six lights can be used. While the batteries have guarantee for six to seven years, the solar panels have 21 years.

Following the success story, eight more GPs in the district have decided to utilise the funds provided under Rajiv Gandhi Empowerment Scheme to exploit solar power.

ZP CEO K H Narasim-hamurthy, who inspected the Hebbasuru GP, said, the gram panchayats can save on power bills and also facilitate works unhindered by adopting solar energy.