MLC Ivan D’souza’s new house to be 100% Solar powered

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru: September 28, 2015: MLC Ivan D’Souza’s house will soon be self-reliant in power generation with the installation of solar energy unit. For the first time, a people’s representative in Dakshina Kannada is making his house completely solar-powered through Mescom’s net metering interconnection plan.

Ivan will install the ’rooftop solar facility for net metering interconnection’ of Mescom at his residence in Valencia and thereby become a power producer, instead of being a mere consumer. The net metering interconnection plan was launched by the Mescom as part of the state government’s energy policy. It allows a consumer to produce solar power and sell excess units to Mescom.

Ivan said he currently pays an average of Rs 6,000 per month as electricity bill.

"I can save money and also support the green energy campaign through this new initiative. A 3KW solar energy production unit is sufficient for my house, where I have two air conditioners, fridge, TV, lights and other electrical equipment. By installing the solar power unit, I can sell additional power produced to Mescom," he said.

It costs less than Rs 3 lakh to install 3KW solar power unit for a house. The initial investment will be recovered within a few years as there is no need of electricity bill payment, Ivan said, adding that a solar unit will last for more than 25 years.

"Even when Mangaluru is gearing up to become a Smart City, every resident should think of installing solar- power units in their houses and thereby promote green energy. We should follow the footsteps of developed countries, where all houses produce solar power," he added.

Mescom to purchase

Mescom will Rs 9.56 per unit for the power. If a consumer wants to avail government subsidy, the power purchase rate will be Rs 7.20 per unit. Many residents in Mangaluru city have installed solar energy units and they have been selling excessive power to Mescom.