Nagpur: Vidarbha's scorching summers are often seen as a challenge, but experts believe the region's abundant sunshine can become one of its greatest assets. To explore this potential, the 93-year-old Vidarbha Research Society (VRS) will organise a one-day conference on renewable energy on June 20 at its Civil Lines premises.
Conference Details
Titled 'Empowering Vidarbha's Growth Through Renewable Energy,' the conference is being held in collaboration with the Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology (VNIT), Nagpur, Mahatma Gandhi Institute for Rural Industrialization (MGIRI), Wardha, and the Solar Energy Society of India (SESI). The event forms part of VRS's 'Be The Change' initiative, a platform aimed at encouraging youth-led discussions and innovative ideas for regional development.
Expert Insights
Parag Pandharipande, working president of VRS, said the conference will focus on how Vidarbha can harness renewable energy, particularly solar power, for sustainable growth. 'Given the region's high temperatures and abundant sunlight, Vidarbha is well-positioned to benefit from solar energy. Experts will discuss opportunities, challenges, and pathways for expanding renewable energy adoption in the region,' he said. Founded when Nagpur was part of the Central Provinces, VRS has a long history of promoting research in humanities such as history and literature. Over the years, the organisation has expanded its focus to include contemporary issues and scientific disciplines, especially those relevant to younger generations.
According to Prafulla Pathak, president of the Solar Energy Society of India, Vidarbha's extreme summer temperatures can be transformed into an advantage. While the heat is often viewed as a burden, the region's climatic conditions make it highly suitable for solar energy generation. The conference will examine how solar technologies can contribute to economic growth, energy security, and environmental sustainability.
Maharashtra's Solar Position
G Sivaramakrishna, a member of SESI's governing council, highlighted Maharashtra's strong position in the solar energy sector. He noted that the state ranks second in the country, behind Gujarat, in the adoption of solar applications, including rooftop systems.
