Pune Sees Remarkable Growth In Solar Energy Usage: Reveals PMC’s Environment Status Report
Pune Sees Remarkable Growth In Solar Energy Usage: Reveals PMC's Environment Status Report
Pune has seen a remarkable three-fold increase in solar energy usage over the past five years, according to the latest Environment Status Report (ESR) from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). The solar energy sanction load has risen from 24,614 kW in 2018-19 to 79,618 kW in 2022-23.
Pune’s commitment to sustainable energy has shown significant progress, according to the latest Environment Status Report (ESR) released by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) on Monday. The report highlights a three-fold increase in solar energy use over the past five years.
From 2018-19 to 2022-23, the city’s solar energy sanction load surged from 24,614 kW to 79,618 kW. PMC Environment Officer Mangesh Dighe stated, “To achieve carbon neutrality, Pune is set to develop a comprehensive climate action plan to address carbon emissions, greenhouse gases, and climate change.”
Local resident Aniket Kulkani, who has installed solar panels at his home, praised the initiative. “Installing solar panels has significantly reduced my electricity bills,” he said. Kulkarni also called for increased public education on solar energy and suggested offering subsidies to encourage broader adoption.
PMC’s efforts in promoting green building norms have been instrumental in this growth. The city achieved a platinum rating under the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) green city rating system, becoming the first in Maharashtra and the second in India to earn this distinction. This rating reflects Pune’s achievements in green development, green buildings, solid waste management, water conservation, and the use of electric buses.
The report also indicates PMC’s initiatives to enhance public engagement in environmental conservation. Notably, the eBird website has been used to map natural habitats and track bird species in the city.
However, the report also reveals challenges. Shivajinagar recorded the highest average PM10 levels in 2022-23. While the air quality index (AQI) for PM10 was poor on just one day, PM2.5 levels were poor for 30 days and very poor on one day. The rise in vehicle numbers, with over 38 lakh registered vehicles and the addition of nearly 3 lakh new vehicles in 2023, is a significant contributor to air pollution.
On a positive note, electric and CNG buses have been pivotal in reducing air and noise pollution. The Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) has deployed 473 electric buses, which have traveled over 40 million kilometers by March 2024, cutting approximately 7,000 tonnes of carbon emissions. Currently, 88% of PMPML’s 1,887-bus fleet operates on clean fuel.
Pune’s advancements in solar energy and green transportation underscore the city’s dedication to sustainable development and environmental preservation.
