Monday, November 11, 2013: In order to promote the use of solar-powered motors, a pilot project is being implemented among farmers. This was shared by the state electricity Minister Natham R Viswanathan who was at the renewable energy exhibition in Trichy. He told TOI that farmers will be provided 80 per cent subsidy for the purchase.
According to the minister, farmers will be given solar equipment worth Rs 5,00,000 as part of the scheme, which is in its initial phase. For this, buyer will be investing a minimum amount of Rs 1,00,000. Subsidy is being provided by the state as well as the centre for buying non-conventional energy devices, the report added.
Viswanathan further told TOI that the government buildings in the state will gradually run on solar power. Mannaparai Government Hospital, Srirangam, and the Trichy Corporation office are now running with solar power and measures are also being taken to convert the district collectorate, said the minister.
The exhibition has been organised along with the Southern India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), Chennai, and the Tamil Nadu Energy Development Agency (TEDA).