A production unit in SIPCOT Industrial Growth Centre at Perundurai that sources one-third of its power requirements from a captive solar plant is being cited by official circles as a model worthy of emulation by manufacturing industries.
On an average, the one MW solar plant spread over a four-acre expanse generates nearly 4,500 units of power every day.
Last year, the annual output from the solar plant was 13.5 lakh units, said Jayaraman, Factory manager of Free Look Fashions (Dyeing Division).
The plant installed at an investment of Rs. 8 crore two years ago does not require any maintenance.
When compared to the charge exceeding Rs. 7 per unit levied by Tangedco for power usage in industries, the payback period for investment is seven years. In the long-term, the plant would prove quite beneficial in cutting down power costs, Mr. Jayaraman said.
Power drawn from the solar panels from 6.30 a.m. to 5 p.m. is connected to the grid.
Official sources said the company preferred not to avail itself of the subsidy schemes of the Centre and State Governments.
District Collector S. Prabakar, who visited the production unit last week, was hopeful of others following suit.
Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board officials say augmentation of solar power by industries will go a long way in improving environment standards on the SIPCOT campus.
