Pune: In a significant step towards sustainable energy, 27 buildings in the Gharkul complex of Chikhali have adopted solar power, making them independent of conventional electricity supplied by the MSEDCL.
This transition has resulted in substantial savings of ₹5 lakh per month in electricity bills for the entire complex, and efforts are underway to extend solar adoption to the remaining buildings.
The Gharkul complex, comprising around 158 buildings constructed by the municipal corporation, now relies on solar energy for operating water supply motors, lifts, and common area lighting.
The solar power project generates approximately 1,000 units of electricity daily, which are then fed back into the power grid, maximizing the efficiency of the system and ensuring a sustainable power supply.
Cost-Effective and Environmentally Friendly: Installation Costs and Savings
Installing the solar power system for a single building costs about ₹5 lakh. Recognizing the environmental and economic benefits, several companies contributed to the project through their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds.
This financial support has allowed the Gharkul complex to save a total of ₹4.05 lakh monthly across 27 buildings, culminating in annual savings of ₹48.6 lakh.
This initiative was driven by dedicated individuals, including Suresh Jadhav, Ravi Landge, and Ashok Magar, who worked tirelessly to bring the project to fruition.
Innovative Use of Solar Power: Free Charging for Electric Bikes
The Sai B31 society in the complex stands out as a pioneer, having been powered by solar energy for the past four years.
The society has effectively utilized the excess electricity generated to offer free charging for electric bikes, promoting eco-friendly transportation within the community. Currently, the society has eight to ten electric bikes benefiting from this free power supply.
"Solar energy is a necessity today, and with the money saved on electricity bills, we have beautified our society, making it cleaner and more appealing," said Ganesh Joshi, President of the society.
Long-Term Benefits: Zero Electricity Bills for Decades
The switch to solar power has been highly beneficial for societies like Navrang, where monthly savings of ₹15,000 to ₹17,000 have accumulated to approximately ₹2.5 to ₹3 lakh over two years.
According to Ravindra Ladukar, Secretary of Navrang Society, “Our solar energy setup will ensure that we have zero electricity bills for at least the next 25 years, securing our financial future and reducing our carbon footprint.”
Similarly, Alankapuri C27 society has reaped benefits worth ₹10 lakh over the past four years thanks to their solar installation, supported by Ashok Magar and CSR funds from Pitambari Company, as noted by Yuvraj Nilvarn, Treasurer of the Federation of Gharkul.
Vision for the Future: A ‘Solar City’ Dream
Ashok Magar, a prominent figure behind this solar initiative, emphasizes the importance of reducing electricity costs for residents. “High electricity bills were a common concern, and through solar power, we have effectively brought those down to zero.
For the past five years, I have been striving to make Gharkul known as a ‘Solar City,’ and I will continue working tirelessly to make this vision a reality,” he said.
