Solar Dome Elevating the Solar City

Kolkata’s Newtown is ready to gift the powerful dome

The solar dome is an indispensable project executed by West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (WBSEDCL) in collaboration with the Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation. The dome is wisely set up adjacent to gate number 6 of Eco-park in Newtown, Kolkata. This is created to meet the electricity demand of the dome, as well as the surroundings - that too by utilizing sunlight which is a renewable source. The project started in February 2017 and the completion is expected by the end of this year that is 2022. Around 30 crore budget is allotted for this project.

Design consultants were engaged in the high-tech interior design of the dome. This is the largest dome with a height of 27 metre and a diameter of 45 metre. The three-story building is going to amaze people as it comes up with a massive interior exhibition hall and viewing gallery. The dome will produce 180 KW electricity. The exterior is covered with glass panels and 2000 “solar panels'' are fitted on top giving it a crystalline structure. The panels are connected to the power lines with the help of a net-metering mechanism.

What is a solar panel and how does it work?

A solar panel is designed to absorb the source of energy which is sunlight and convert it to electric energy. Solar photovoltaic(PV) technology is used by solar panels in this conversion process. The sunlight activates the panels as the electrons are freed as soon as the sunlight hits the PV cells which consist of semiconductors. 

Simultaneously the bars collect the running electrons which produce an electric current. This results in the production of Direct Current which is not applicable for most appliances that is why the solar panels are connected to an inverter that converts direct current to alternating current. 

The biggest solar panel project is found in Rajasthan, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu.

What is a solar dome?

A solar dome is a spherical dome that is coated with solar panels. The solar panels help in the continuous generation of electricity from sunlight, throughout the day. Almost 4000 Micro Solar domes are found in metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. Some are also found in Bangalore.

India’s biggest solar dome is being executed in Newtown, Kolkata.

Why is the project executed in Newtown in Kolkata?

Newtown is a highly planned city that is gradually increasing. The rapid increase in population in Newtown led to the increasing demand for electricity. The central government has set up the solar city mission in which solar power plants are installed with a capacity of 1252KWp and Newtown falls under this mission. The only Indian city which commits to “United Nation’s energy compact" is Newtown. The commitment ensures the stability of modern energy connection to everyone. It is expected that by 2030, renewable sources of energy will be explored. Debasish Sen, the chairman of Newtown Kolkata Development Authority said that Newtown is already certified as a “green city” and “solar city” which will produce 1.3 megawatts of solar power. He also said that e-vehicles are highly encouraged with modified infrastructure. Thus, Newtown is the perfect place for the solar dome project. It will enhance the development and beauty of the city. On top of that, the city also provides many wonderful sites like Eco Park, Smart Plaza, Biswa Bangla gate, and many more. Therefore, it can gain the limelight and attract people.

The dome is impressively futuristic by nature

The dome has a huge internal space with three floors of exhibition space connected with a spiral ramp having a capacity of 15 people. The idea of the spiral ramp will help the visitors to go upstairs and explore the upper floors. Even it has a central lift to come downstairs. The top floor provides a viewing gallery showcasing breathtaking beauty. According to officials, the hall will display theatrical shows on Global Warming as well as hi-tech interactive shows having international standards. 

There will be certain participatory events for visitors. On the first floor, fixed cycles are arranged which will help in the generation of electricity. There will be food counters on the upper floors as well. The hall will be adorned with an overhead aquarium. The upper floor will also present spectacular laser shows. Thus, the dome is a stunning museum uplifting and displaying various uses of unconventional energy.

Why should we use solar power?

Solar power is renewable and the system derives pure and clean energy from the sun. Solar energy helps to combat greenhouse gas emissions and reduce carbon footprint. It reduces electric bills and the maintenance bill is also low. Most importantly it is environment friendly and highly sustainable. 

In the words of Debasish Sen

Newtown Kolkata Development Authority is successfully making Newtown more sustainable. According to Debasish Sen, the chairman and managing director of Newtown Kolkata Development Authority, the city is progressing in many aspects. From waste management to electric buses to solar energy. In an interview, he expressed his thoughts and his aim to make the city fully sustainable. He further appreciates the people working on their respective projects. The introduction of a solar dome will be helpful for the people of Newtown. He also said that the solar dome project plays a vital role in the sustainable development of the city. 

How can people visit the solar dome?

 People can take the metro to Dum Dum station or Belgachia metro station, then people have to take a taxi to reach the destination.

People can also take the electric bus numbered AC-4B which runs from Joka to Newtown.

The effect of lockdown.

The lockdown devastated people mentally, physically, and financially. All the construction works were stopped as a result the time of completion was extended. The project which was started in 2017 and was expected to end in 2 to 3 years, that process is taking too long to complete. This delay affected the authority and the people to some extent.