Solar bridge over canals to bridge power gap in Punjab

Power-Starved Punjab scripted a sunshine story on Wednesday by giving nod to a 1-MW project that will use the space above canals to generate solar power. First-of-its-kind project outside the US, it will be based on the design of Golden Gate in California, which uses triple galvanised cables. The project will have a bridge of solar panels above the canals.

The man who owns patent for the technology swears by the canal network of the state. Steven Conger, founder of USA's P4P (Power for People) Energy Pvt Ltd, which is bringing the technology to Punjab, told The Indian Express that the over 14,000-km canal and distribution system will be able to address all power problems in the state.

He added that interestingly, a 21st century technology will come up on the 19th century canal network and the structure can survive for more than 100 years. Only the solar panels, whenever required, may be changed, he said.

Asserting that the project is based on the principle of food, water and energy security as no farmland is involved, P4P Business Strategist Robin Matthews said: "The genesis of our company is in meeting the food needs and not just providing solar energy. We want to involve the community and empower them, thereby creating more job opportunities. This city has immense talent. We have tied up with the Chandigarh College of Engineering, Landran, for providing engineering support."

According to Conger, the project will not cost the state government anything but on the other hand, save five million gallons of water per megawatt every year from evaporation and also reduce salinity. "The solar panels will also lower fish mortality by shielding them from harsh sun rays. In fact, the canal space below the project can be used for fish farming," he added. P4P will sell power to the central pool at the Central Energy Regulatory Commission rates.

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