THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: It’s time for the state capital to tap the wind and the sun. In a first-of-its-kind initiative, various government agencies under the Power Department are organising a festival to popularise renewable energy systems and to generate awareness about the need to tap wind and solar energy in the district.
The week-long Akshaya Urja Utsav (Kerala Renewable Energy Festival 2018) began on Wednesday with ‘Akshaya Urja Prayan Rally’ through urban and semi-urban areas of Thiruvananthapuram to popularise the concept. The festival has been organised by the Agency for Non-conventional Energy and Rural Technology (ANERT) in association with the Centre for Environment and Development (CED), Kerala State Electricity Board, the Electrical Inspectorate and the Energy Management Centre (EMC). On till February 28, the festival features exhibitions, seminars, workshops, rallies, business meets and competitions including one for short films.
Akshaya Urja Prayan Rally
The rally will cover urban and semi-urban areas to promote the concept of renewable energy. Coordinated by the Academy for Mountaineering and Adventure Sports, the rallies will be on till February 27.
Folklore
The Akshay Urja Festival will see the use of folk arts to promote renewable energy. ‘Singarimelam’ artists will tour the district performing on the renewable energy theme.
Kerala Renewable Energy Exhibition 2018
The exhibition will be held at the Sooryakanthi fairgrounds from February 24 to 28. Products marketed by empanelled turnkey agents of ANERT and activities undertaken by various agencies under the power department will be featured in the exhibition.
Kerala Renewable Energy Congress
The Kerala Renewable Energy Congress will be held at Kanakakkunnu Palace on February 26 and 27. This is envisaged as a national-level workshop on technological advances and innovations achieved in the renewable energy sector. The congress is expected to attract scientists, policy-makers, researchers, students, developers and NGOs. The event, organised jointly by ANERT and CED, will be inaugurated at Kanakakkunnu at 10 am on February 26.
Various other events are also planned as part of the festival. Competitions for the public will be held from February 25 to 27 at YMCA Hall. A short film competition based on the theme renewable energy will be held for visual communication students, amateurs and professionals on February 26 at the Museum Auditorium. A workshop for local bodies is planned on February 27 at the same venue. The ‘Renewable Energy Awards’ for individuals and organisations will be given away on February 28.