BANGALORE: Mahesh V S has a cap with a difference. A mini solar panel fitted to the beak of the cap powers a small fan which cools him when out in the sun. A brainchild of Mahesh who is the Director of Sun Ray Solar Museum, Hubli, this ‘solar cap’ can be purchased for Rs 550.
“Our aim is to prove that solar technology is not shockingly expensive,” said Mahesh. The museum has a stall at Renewable Asia 2012, an exhibition which seeks to showcase products which use renewable energy. The museum is also showcasing one of its kind solar water heaters which do not require an additional overhead tank for water storage. “It is a non-pressurised solar water heater with no tank. The body is made without any welding whatsoever,” said Mahesh.
The other products like a solar power pesticide sprayer and an air powered exhaust ventilators are also on display. “These ventilators are made of stainless steel and aluminium. They are available in different sizes and bases depending on the needs,” said Sukarna, Project Manager for Airer Natura. He added that the price of these ventilators ranges from Rs 6,000 to 10,000.
Another interesting product showcased is the Micro Hybrid Power Generator by Sunair Power, a Bangalore-based company which has managed to develop a working Vertical Axis Wind Turbine which, coupled with an array of solar panels and storage batteries, can keep a household comfortably powered with no dependence on power grid.
“It took us three years to develop this product. It has only one moving part and rotates when the wind blows. It is not as huge and bulky as conventional windmills and can be installed in households as well,” said Venkatesh Prasad, Director, Sunair Power.
The installation complete with all parts and battery would cost around Rs 4.5 lakh for a household and it can produce 2 to 8 units of power in a day.
“A regular household, without a geyser or AC, would require three to four units. The battery can store up to four units so the house can have backup electricity as well,” added Venkatesh.
The wind turbine needs a minimum wind speed of 1.5m/s to produce electricity and according to the company, it is suitable for cities like Bangalore. The Vertical Axis Wind Turbine is also being used in some countries on highways to power the lighting and other systems. “This would, however, take time to arrive in India as its cost is current not feasible here,” said Venkatesh.
The exhibition is on till the February 19, at Tripura Vasini, Palace Grounds.