Key Takeaways
- A vertical axis wind turbine generating 0.5 kW has been installed at a community center near Trichy.
- The turbine supports local students by providing nighttime electricity for studying and practicing fine arts.
- Plans are underway to expand the initiative to another village, Sethurapatti.
Community Solar Initiative in Tamil Nadu
St Joseph’s College’s Extension department has successfully installed a vertical axis wind turbine at a community center in Yagapudayanpatti village, near Trichy, as part of the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA) initiative. This turbine, capable of generating 0.5 kW of electricity, presents an innovative solution for rural energy needs, as it can be installed on rooftops and requires minimal space compared to conventional horizontal turbines.
The choice of Yagapudayanpatti was based on research indicating favorable wind speeds for power generation. The turbine, manufactured in Bengaluru, stands two meters tall and 0.8 meters wide. It can power essential lighting and fans within the community center, helping to create a conducive environment for education. “Electricity generated from the turbine will be connected to a battery and inverter to power the community center, supporting around 10 LED bulbs or five tube lights, and two ceiling fans,” explained A Alexander, an assistant professor in the physics department at St Joseph’s College.
The UBA, which involves educational institutions in rural development, recognizes Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) as the regional coordinating institute. The turbine’s electricity will play a vital role in enabling local students to utilize the community center for study during nighttime, providing them with improved access to educational resources and facilities for practicing fine arts.
The collaboration between St Joseph’s College and UBA included financial support for the turbine, which cost ₹1 lakh, alongside an additional ₹25,000 provided by the college for installation needs. T Joseph Christu Raja, the coordinator of the Extension department, highlighted the broader goals of this project, stating, “Besides power generation, awareness will be generated among students and rural people about renewable energy and the need to reduce dependency on fossil fuels.”
Future expansion plans include the installation of similar wind energy solutions in the nearby village of Sethurapatti, further extending the benefits of renewable energy to more communities in the region.
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