From Solar Ferries To Zero-Energy Terminal: Kerala's Vaikom Ferry Terminal Set For Eco-Friendly Transformation

Vaikom will soon become Kerala’s first completely solar-powered ferry terminal, with plans underway to convert the facility into a zero-energy hub.

This initiative is part of the Kerala State Water Transport Department (SWTD)’s larger vision to transition half of its fleet to solar-powered vessels, reported The New Indian Express.

“Vaikom will be made a zero-energy terminal this year itself," a senior SWTD official was quoted as saying by TNIE.

In a bid to achieve this goal, all vessels there will be converted into solar ferries while panels will be installed at the new terminal building to be constructed at a cost of Rs 50 lakh, the official said.

"Thus, the terminal can generate its own energy and consumes no net energy. The boats too will soon run fully on solar power, cutting off costs and adding to the green energy movement," the official added.

The Vaikom terminal is already home to Aditya, India’s first solar-powered passenger ferry, which was launched on 12 January 2017.

This ferry has been a huge success and is able to complete 5 to 6-hour journeys on sunny days, thanks to the 78 solar panels fitted on its roof.

Currently, the terminal operates three steel boats and one wooden boat on the 2.5 km Vaikom-Tavanakadavu route, alongside Aditya.

However, in the next three to four months, all steel boats on this route will be replaced with solar-powered vessels that will have a 75-passenger capacity.

Additionally, a new station master-cum-office building will be constructed soon with the local MLA fund, following a slight delay due to Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance.

The new building will be designed to accommodate a maximum number of solar panels on its roof, contributing to the terminal’s goal of becoming fully self-sustaining in energy.

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