VIZAG INDUSTRIAL NEWS

Andhra University has taken the first step towards converting solar energy into electricity. AU will launch the first solar thermal power project in the state to provide electricity, heating and cooling. A team of officers chaired by Nedcap Chairman KK Raju met AU VC Prof  PVGD Prasada Reddy on Tuesday morning. The meeting also discussed the setting up of a solar thermal power project in three areas of the varsity to cater to the varsity electricity needs and for the maintenance of hostel messes and auditoriums. It was decided to set up a three-way system at the varsity to provide solar power, cooling and heat for cooking simultaneously with the full support of Australian technology. Speaking on the occasion, VC Acharya PVGD Prasada Reddy said that Andhra University stands as a center for renewable energy sources. Driving away conventional energy sources is essential. Thus, environmental protection, economic leeway is happening.

Nedcap chairman KK Raju said it was a way to make full use of conventional energy sources and reduce pollution. It will be set up at Andhra University for the first time in the state. The varsity will build a one-megawatt solar thermal power project on a boot model.

Varsity Registrar Prof  V. Krishnamohan said the varsity would be relieved of the burden of electricity bills by collecting the electricity required by the AU from solar energy. 

Sunrise CSP Chairman Deepak Gadia explained how to set up a solar thermal power plant, power generation, consumption and uses with a power point presentation. After visiting the varsity, it was initially decided that solar power generation could be undertaken at three locations at the Women's Engineering College, AU Engineering College hostel complexes and the AU Convention Center on Beach Road.

Rector Prof K. Samata, Dean of Electrical Works Prof  P. Mallikarjuna Rao, Nedcap Visakhapatnam District Manager Vijay Kumar Raju and others were present on the occasion. VC Prasada Reddy on behalf of the varsity honored Nedcap Chairman KK Raju on the occasion.