CPWD to install 'solar trees' in residential complexes of central govt employees

The Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has directed its officials to explore the possibility of installing "solar trees" in residential complexes of government employees.

The move intends to promote renewable energy and reduce carbon footprint by the CPWD, the prime construction agency of the central government.

According to an official, the concept of "solar trees" was first implemented at the National Salt Satyagraha Memorial built by the CPWD at Dandi in Gujarat, and the agency is getting a good response for it.

Around 41 "solar trees" have been installed in the memorial complex to meet its energy requirement.

"All the field units have been directed to explore the possibility of installation of solar trees in the open area of General Pool Office Accommodation (GPRA) and General Pool Residential Accommodation (GPRA)," the official said.

The agency has asked its officials to install the same after ascertaining the technical feasibility in consultation with the architecture wing.

Both GPOA and GPRA are meant for central government employees.

Installation of such trees will harness solar energy to the maximum extent possible by utilising vacant ground places, the official said.

"The CPWD has also sent the description of the solar trees installed at the National Salt Satyagraha Memorial to field units for guidance in executing the same," he added.

The CPWD, which comes under the Union Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry, also looks after maintenance of central government buildings and erecting of fences on the country's international borders.