Kathmandu: The Central Department of Environmental Science (CDES), Tribhuvan University, has installed solar panels on its roof.

“In the first phase, we have installed 1.3 kW solar system that can easily operate more than 10 computers. In the next phase, we will establish a solar system that will electrify the laboratory,” said Dr Kedar Rijal, head, CDES.

The department, located on the premises of TU in Kirtipur, has also installed biogas to electrify the laboratory. “The Puxin biogas that is fed with banmara (eupatorium adenophorum) and buffalo dung produces 1.2 cubic metres of gas every day,” said Jagannath Aryal, lecturer at the department.

The Alternative Energy Promotion Centre (AEPC) – a body under the ministry of environment has agreed to support solar electrification in CDES.

“The renewable (solar, biogas and wind) energy will not only provide electricity to the department but also help students conduct research activities,” added Rijal.

According to AEPC, 1.2 million households in the country use solar energy. The government has announced it will establish a solar plant for Singha Durbar — the administrative headquarters.

Though renewable energy contributes only 0.7 per cent of the total energy consumption in the country, experts said it is a highly potential sector.

“We have huge solar energy potential, but has not been prioritised,” said Jagannath Shrestha, professor at the Institute of Engineering, Pulchowk.

“At a time when research activities in the university departments have to bear the brunt of loadshedding, the newly set up power system will give the CDES a respite,” said Rijal.

source: The Himalayan Times