Solar Panels Now Power Vidhana Soudha Parking Areas, Saving State Millions Annually
The historic Vidhana Soudha and Vikas Soudha will now utilize solar power through panels installed in the parking area, reducing annual electricity expenses and promoting renewable energy use.
BENGALURU, February 8 – In a significant move towards clean and renewable energy, solar power panels have been installed in the parking areas of Vidhana Soudha and Vikas Soudha. The initiative is expected to serve as a model for other government buildings across the state.
Due to limited space on the roof of Vidhana Soudha, a historic building, solar panels could not be installed on the top. As a solution, the panels were strategically placed in the parking areas surrounding the premises, ensuring they do not interfere with the architectural aesthetics of the landmark.
The project has been implemented in partnership with SELCO Foundation under a public-private collaboration focused on sustainable energy solutions. The panels have been installed at various locations within the Vidhana Soudha and Vikas Soudha complexes without disrupting the traditional structure or appearance of the buildings.
The solar installation is designed to generate approximately 300 kilowatts of electricity, which will cover about 12 percent of the total energy requirement of the two buildings. Currently, the combined electricity bills for over 1,000 rooms in both buildings range between twelve to fifteen lakh rupees per month. The new system is expected to save nearly twenty lakh rupees annually, with a return on investment anticipated within two years.
Officials have emphasized that the initiative is part of a larger goal to encourage the installation of solar panels in government buildings statewide, including panchayat office buildings. The project is seen as an important step in reducing electricity costs and promoting the use of sustainable energy across Karnataka.
Speaking on the project, Assembly Speaker U. T. Khader highlighted the importance of reducing electricity expenses. He said, “It is crucial to lead by example. If solar power is not implemented at Vidhana Soudha, the directives for solar adoption elsewhere would lose their impact. Plans are underway to install solar panels in all legislative assembly halls.”
The installation of solar panels at Vidhana Soudha and Vikas Soudha marks a significant step in Karnataka’s push towards renewable energy, demonstrating a practical and replicable model for energy efficiency in historic and large government complexes.
