In a significant step towards sustainable energy, the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL), the Maharashtra Energy Development Agency (MEDA-Mahaurja), and the Shree Saibaba Sansthan Trust (SSST) have signed an agreement to transform Shirdi into a ‘solar city.’ This initiative marks a historic moment, as Shirdi will become the first town in Maharashtra to be entirely powered by solar energy.
Solar Power to Meet Shirdi’s Energy Demands
The SSST, which oversees the Shree Saibaba Temple, will establish a solar power plant on its own land to meet its energy requirements. This includes powering the temple and other facilities such as Bhakta Niwas (pilgrims’ hostels) and hospitals. In addition, a separate solar plant will be constructed on government land to fulfill the power needs of the rest of the town, including residential, commercial, and industrial sectors.
During a high-level meeting in Mumbai, the three organizations agreed to collaborate on the project. “The solar plant will be responsible for generating power for the entire town of Shirdi, ensuring that all consumers, including public services and agricultural organizations, receive power generated solely through sustainable methods,” said Deepak Kumthekar, the chief engineer of MSEDCL for the Nashik zone.
Aiming for Zero Energy Bills
The SSST is particularly focused on achieving a ‘zero’ energy bill for the temple and its associated facilities. To kickstart this ambitious project, the Trust will utilize 42 acres of its land for the initial solar power plant, with plans to sell any excess power generated to MSEDCL. Mahaurja will provide technical expertise to help develop the necessary infrastructure for this large-scale initiative.
Project Scope and Timeline
Shirdi’s energy demand currently stands at 50 MW, with 4 MW already being produced through existing solar power plants. To meet the town’s total energy needs, the new solar plants will be established on both SSST-owned land and additional land to be secured from the government. The entire project will require approximately 125 acres of land.
Agricultural consumers in the town will be transitioned to the Nimgaon solar-powered sub-station, further ensuring that all energy used in Shirdi is derived from solar power. MSEDCL officials estimate that the project could take at least three years to complete, depending on land availability and the project’s initiation.
A Step Towards a Sustainable Future
The transformation of Shirdi into a solar-powered town is a groundbreaking initiative that sets a precedent for other towns in Maharashtra and across India. By harnessing solar energy, Shirdi will not only reduce its carbon footprint but also pave the way for sustainable development in the region. As the project progresses, Shirdi will serve as a model for other communities looking to transition to renewable energy sources.
