Solar Man smiles again

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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