Technopark, reputedly among the greenest IT parks, has implemented its first renewable energy project — a solar powered street lighting system in its campus here. Mr Sasidhar Srinivas, Secretary-IT, Kerala, inaugurated the first phase of converting the entire street and road lighting within the campus.
SOLAR PANELS
Sixteen street light luminaries complete with solar panels and compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) powered by solar modules with charge controllers have been installed at a cost of Rs 7.7 lakh.
A Technopark spokesman said here that the Jayachandran Associates and Design Engineers were the consultants for the work and Radiant Solar, contractors.
The solar lights installed are as per specifications and standards set by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.
The CFLs will emit light from the power generated by a solar module of 120W capacity. The energy generated during the day time is stored in specially designed tubular battery for solar application.
DAYLIGHT SENSOR
An electronic charge controller is used to control charging and the duty cycle of solar streetlights. The system is provided with automatic on/off function for dusk-to-dawn operation.
The solar panel will work as a daylight sensor. When the light incident on the panel falls below a certain lux level, the CFL will be switched on.
“We are engaging in all activities that will make Technopark environmental and eco friendly,” Mr Mervin Alexander, Chief Executive Officer, said.
The installation of solar lights in the campus will help in saving power to a great extent.
“Another project we have initiated is to arrange bicycles for Technopark employees to commute within the campus.
“This which would reduce carbon emissions inside the park to a great extent and also engage the techies in some badly-needed physical exercise,” Mr Alexander said.
ALLIANZ CORNHILL DRIVE
The bicycles for travel within the campus will be made available from end of this month. The initiative will be completely managed by Athi's Bicycle Club, which is already leading a similar initiative in the capital city.
Technopark-based Allianz Cornhill has sponsored the purchase of over 50 bicycles to be shared by men and women staff in the ratio 4 to 1.
Technopark will provide parking space for the bicycles at four locations. All users will require to be registered for use of the bicycle at a token price.
This is expected to encourage techies to use public transport to reach the gate and then ride bicycles to reach the respective buildings, Mr Alexander said.