A solar tree has leaf-like adjustable solar panels connected through metal branches using sunlight to make energy. The solar tree panels charge batteries during the day; at dusk, the tree automatically switches on lED lights
The first of June became a grim day for the world as the seemingly united forum of Paris climate accord got a severe setback with the United States announcing its exit from the agreement. Ironically, the departure was announced just four days prior to the World Environment Day on June 5. The decision by the US not only cast a dark shadow on a special day for environment globally, but also exposed the vulnerability of the international agreements to the whims and fancies of its powerful members.
The American exit also means that the cause of environmental conservation and climate change mitigation is yet to find a compelling traction in the international community — as a result of this nations’ that are desirous of reneging on their commitments can do so without much of a backlash.
In order for countries to stick to their commitments, climate change and global warming must be recognised as real time threats and not as hoaxes as perceived by some heads of states. But more importantly, world leaders are elected representatives of their respective nations and a leader’s action and opinion is, therefore, representative of the nation’s opinion. Given this, it is imperative to understand that the concern for the environment and climate change needs to take root in the public opinion first before it gets reflected in state policy.
Unfortunately, the adverse impacts of climate change and global warming are being glossed over by many countries which are consuming more fossil fuel and generating bigger carbon footprints in their quest for economic prosperity and growth. As a result, today, countries are increasingly operating on non-renewable and polluting sources of energy for growth while pontificating and advocating the need for clean energy. This dichotomy needs to change.
Change is difficult to happen, and changing mindsets is even tougher. This explains the ongoing struggle in transitioning from non-renewable to renewable sources of energy. In India too, the past few decades have witnessed successive Governments trying to popularise renewable power but without much success. Many environmental experts have opined that the exit of the US from the Paris deal presents a never before opportunity to India to lead the world from the front in environmental conservation and climate change mitigation. In order for India to do this, it must rotate the entire paradigm of environmental conservation on its head and evolve an approach that is both ground-breaking and innovative. This will capture public opinion and ensure voluntary compliance for renewable energy sources.
India must champion the cause of innovative renewable energy technologies that are both exciting and affordable. A variant of the solar tree concept invented by Central Mechanical Research Institute is an apt example of innovative and affordable renewable energy technology that can invoke curiosity of the masses.
The solar tree works very much like a real tree with leaf-like adjustable solar panels connected through metal branches using sunlight to make energy. The solar tree panels charge batteries during the day; at dusk, the tree automatically switches on lED lights. It is also programmed to regulate the amount of light it produces. Solar trees are flexible and rotate to face the sun and produce maximum possible amount of energy using a technique called ‘spiralling phyllataxy’. Its calculated rotations allow even the lowermost solar panels to receive ample sunlight for electricity production.
It can also be used in street-lighting and industrial power supply systems. The solar tree innovation is suitable for use in off-the-grid remote areas or in places that need point-sourced light like car parks and street lighting. Besides, with grid connectivity or battery store, the solar tree can also supply electricity wherever needed.
This innovation also addresses the issue of land scarcity that usually plagues a renewable energy project. Solar trees occupy the least amount of space while generating copious amounts of renewable and clean power. Solar trees, besides being ergonomic, can also complement rooftop solar systems, or other green building measures.
The technology can ensure continuous supply of electricity in areas that do not have enough power supply and can benefit many who are not connected to the grid. Solar energy benefits have been known for long, but the time has come to popularise these benefits through uncommon and innovative methods, such as the solar tree.
Renewable and clean energy always provides a better alternative over other methods of electricity production, and when this form of green energy is produced in an innovative and affordable manner it is bound to develop interest of the people-and that alone can ensure in bringing renewable energy to mainstream energy production.
(The writer is an environmental journalist)