Solar Man: Instrument behind Solar Revolution in Kerala
Exploring the endless opportunities of solar power now a
matter of concern for large number of people and fast becoming a point of
discussion - even among ordinary citizens. Amid energy crisis, deficit in
rainfall and hike in electricity charge, the subject picked the attention of
administrators too. Search for alternative sources of energy and efficient
mechanisms are the prime priorities.
Whilst mentioning about this non – ubiquitous technology,
let me memorize a glittering glory in this saga. I don't know how many of you are still
remembering that historic step by a great visionary - a year ago. I posted
an article about this novel venture. It is about the installation of the
largest solar power plant in Kerala (State’s first solar-powered campus,
perhaps the first one of its kind in the whole country, is coming up in
Thiruvalla). Yes, the man behind this experiment was Rev. Fr. Abraham
Mulamoottil, Founder and then Principal of MACFAST (known as Mulamoottil
Achan). Innovation has always been hallmark of Achan and he lives with visions
and missions. While reading myriad articles on 'solar power' - I remember him -
an ‘Acharyan of Sustainable Development’. His strong commitment towards society
and the urge for sustainability are very apparent from his noble ventures like
Radio MACFAST, Clean and Green City, CAN I and Health O Million. He is a real
instrument behind the silent revolution of solar power in Kerala. Albeit, he
invested huge amount of money, he had a clear aim and purpose in his mind. He
opined about this mega project - this project is significant not only in terms of its size and technical
attributes, but also in terms of its demonstration to the community the ease
with which solar generated power can be installed by small and medium
enterprises for their financial and operational benefit, and for the wider
ecological benefits to society.
Unfortunately, since then, no one mentioned about his courageous endeavor. Even our Minister for Power, Sri Aryadan Mohammed also inspired from this unique initiative. (MACFAST Solar Power Plant has been inaugurated by the Honorable Minister). Motivated by this giant leap of Achan, Minister dared to frame a legislation to ensure solar plants are installed in all high-rise buildings including residential apartments. I was working as the Project Officer of MACFAST then and handled different queries from various parts of Kerala. In the wake of these developments, so many institutions came forward to install solar power plant - like Rubber Board, Amritha Institute, CIAL, Malankara Plantations, Science Planetarium etc.
Now he aims to trigger a bigger revolution - 'Light and
Life' - a 100 KW solar power plant in Pushpagiri Medical College. (He is the
Chairman and Chief Executive of Pushchair Group of Institutions). The vision he
envisioned is pure and free water for all. The proposed project envisages construction of
pond, purification of water using UV Technology and supply of pure water for local
community. Solar power will be utilized for the purification and pumping of
water. A Narmada Canal model solar roof top over the pond and paths make this
project more attractive. In comply with eco friendly concepts he constructed a
state of the art corporate office in the Pushpagiri Campus – probably the first
Eco Office in Kerala. The well renowned Cathedral in Tiruvalla is also the
marvelous creation of Achan which strictly followed all the most modern eco
friendly notions. He is now brain storming about Social forest, Community Park,
Kids Village, Comfort and Care Residents and so many similar philanthropic
initiatives. Beyond words and mere
promises, he practices what he preaches. Irrespective of cast and creed/young
and aged he acts as a mentor and motivator. Even his presence and smile unleash
the hidden talents of millions and I dare to say he is a rare among the real. Let his glorious missions and awe-inspiring
visions live long.
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