Patna: Patna College is set to embrace solar energy with the installation of over 30 solar panels across three locations within the campus. Solar panels with a combined capacity of 40 kilowatts, 10 kilowatts, and 5 kilowatts will be installed on the roofs of the library, Bhasha Bhawan, and Psychology Bhawan respectively. This initiative is expected to significantly reduce the college’s electricity expenditure, which currently amounts to lakhs of rupees per month.
The adoption of solar energy is also anticipated to enhance the college’s NAAC grading. Currently holding a ‘C’ grade, the college hopes to improve its standing in the next evaluation cycle by demonstrating its commitment to sustainability.
College Principal Prof. Sanjay Kumar Sinha emphasized the financial burden of high electricity bills, stating that it diverted funds from crucial development projects. He expressed satisfaction with the commencement of the solar energy installation project, which is expected to be operational by February.
Patna University, however, faces a significant electricity debt, with outstanding bills exceeding Rs 7 crore. The majority of this debt stems from unpaid hostel electricity bills. While the university had sought financial assistance from the education department, the department has instructed universities to assume responsibility for their own electricity bills.
The installation of prepaid meters in colleges has further exacerbated the financial strain, as electricity supply is immediately cut off upon non-payment. The rising cost of electricity necessitates the increased adoption of solar power generation across colleges to mitigate financial burdens and ensure the sustainability of educational institutions.
