Ambikapur, located in the northern part of Chhattisgarh, India, is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Nestled amidst lush greenery, it serves as the administrative headquarters of the Surguja district. With a population of approximately 1,35,000 residents, Ambikapur is a bustling hub of activity, blending traditional values with modern aspirations.
Energy plays a crucial role in the development and sustenance of any city, and Ambikapur is no exception. However, like many cities in India, Ambikapur has been heavily dependent on fossil fuels for its energy needs. The city relies predominantly on coal and petroleum-based fuels for its electricity generation, transportation, and industrial activities.
Currently, it is estimated that around 80% of Ambikapur's total energy usage is derived from fossil fuels. This heavy reliance on non-renewable energy sources has resulted from historical decisions and the availability of abundant coal reserves in the region. In the past, the emphasis on coal mining and thermal power plants as a means of economic growth and energy generation contributed to the prevalent energy situation.
Recognizing the need to transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, Ambikapur has embarked on a transformative journey to reduce its dependency on fossil fuels and promote the use of clean energy. The city administration has implemented several initiatives and plans to achieve this goal.
One notable step taken by Ambikapur is the establishment of a decentralized solid waste management system. The city has pioneered the concept of converting solid waste into energy through the construction of a waste-to-energy plant. This innovative facility utilizes organic waste to produce biogas, which is then used to generate electricity. The plant has not only helped in waste management but also contributes to reducing the city's reliance on fossil fuels.
In addition to waste-to-energy initiatives, Ambikapur has also actively encouraged the adoption of solar power. The city administration has implemented solar street lighting projects, ensuring energy-efficient illumination in public spaces while reducing the demand for conventional electricity. Furthermore, the installation of rooftop solar panels on government buildings and incentivizing residential solar power systems are steps toward decentralized clean energy generation.
To promote sustainable transportation, Ambikapur has taken measures to encourage the use of electric vehicles (EVs). The city administration has set up charging infrastructure for EVs and introduced electric rickshaws as an eco-friendly mode of transport. These initiatives aim to decrease the dependency on fossil fuel-based vehicles, thereby reducing air pollution and carbon emissions.
The citizens of Ambikapur are actively involved in sustainable practices. The community has embraced the use of energy-efficient appliances and lighting, emphasizing the importance of conservation and responsible energy consumption. Public awareness campaigns, workshops, and educational programs are conducted to promote energy-saving habits among the residents.
Looking to the future, Ambikapur has set ambitious targets to further reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and transition to clean energy sources. The city aims to increase the share of renewable energy in its energy mix, with a focus on solar and wind power generation. In collaboration with the state government and private sector, Ambikapur is exploring opportunities to develop large-scale renewable energy projects that can cater to the city's growing energy demands.
Furthermore, the city administration is actively working to improve energy efficiency in industries and commercial establishments. Encouraging the adoption of energy-saving technologies, promoting green building practices, and providing incentives for sustainable business operations are part of the comprehensive strategy to reduce fossil fuel dependency.