To some it might seem odd to compare Gujarat’s innovative solar canal project to Panama’s nearly 100 year old global game changer. Although there are obvious and vast differences, there is also something powerfully familiar about the ultimate impact of the two projects.

While the 48 mile (77 km) Panama Canal saved ships traveling between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans from taking the 8000 miles (12,875 km) journey around the southern tip of South America, the Solar Canal Project provides a duel purpose alternative energy system that both creates clean energy and conserves water.

The extensive Narmada Canal system brings water from the Sardar Sarovar Dam through Gujarat and into Rajasthan, irrigating large areas of arable land. Unfortunately a significant percentage of water is lost to evaporation annually. By building a network of solar panel systems using the existing banks of the canals the project will not only produce clean energy but save millions of liters of water a year.

This project follows right behind a Gujarat state initiative to install rooftop solar panels in Gandhinagar and in northern district wastelands.

Kudos to forward thinking Chief Minister, Mr Narendra Modi for acting on a good plan when he sees it.

Click on the photo above to read more…