The Hindu Business Line : First Citizen `powers' the way — Rashtrapati Bhavan plans solar plant

"Rashtrapati Bhavan is considering generation of electricity from renewable resources to take care of its energy needs. One proposal under consideration is the setting up of an 8-MGW Grid locked Solar Power Photovoltaic Plant occupying an area of 300 by 300 metres for supplying power to the entire Rashtrapati Bhavan Building complex, including the estate," the President, Mr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, said while addressing the `Green Building Congress 2005' organised by the CII here on Thursday.

The plant would also help reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 12,000 tonnes per year, besides 5,760 kg of sulphur oxide and 2,720 kg of harmful nitrogen oxide.

"The cost of the plant will be fully paid back by the saving in the electricity charges in less than 20 years," he pointed out.

Recalling his initial days in office, the President said, "When I started working, I found that all the doors and windows with beautiful curtains were kept covered. Because of this practice, the electric lights used to be switched on from the time I entered the office until I completed my work for the day.

"Either the intention could be that the President should not see the nature at its pure form, or it was due to some security concerns," he quipped, evoking laughter from the audience.

Mr Kalam said that after a discussion with his team, he decided to open the curtains and allow sunlight to enter his office. "Once the curtains were opened the sunlight was more than sufficient for my work during the daytime. Energy saving in every room is possible.

"Even the visitors, who come to meet me, notice the difference. The message is that when we design buildings we should ensure that we are able to make maximum use of the nature's gift such as light, heat and breeze for providing comfortable living for the occupants. In all the government buildings, we should ensure that the offices are not hidden by curtains," he said.

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