Date : November 23, 2023
Prepared by : Amrita School of Sustainable Futures
Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham is proud to announce a bold commitment to achieving 100% renewable energy, reinforcing our dedication to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and global climate action. Through this pledge, we aim to reduce our carbon footprint, inspire communities, and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Vision and Goal
Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham’s goal is to power all campus operations exclusively through renewable energy sources, achieving 100% renewable energy use by 2035. Our commitment aligns with global sustainability goals and reflects our belief that higher education institutions play a critical role in advocating for clean, renewable energy solutions.
Key Areas of Focus
To achieve 100% renewable energy, our pledge involves a comprehensive approach, focusing on the following areas:
- On-Site Renewable Energy Generation
- Renewable Energy Partnerships
- Energy Conservation and Efficiency
- Advocacy and Community Outreach
Strategic Initiatives
On-Site Renewable Energy Generation
- Solar Power Expansion
Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham will expand its solar energy infrastructure by installing additional rooftop solar panels, covering as many buildings and structures as possible across all campuses.
- Timeline: Installations phased over the next 10 years.
- Expected Impact: Generate up to 50% of campus energy needs from solar power.
- Wind and Hybrid Energy Solutions
We will explore partnerships to incorporate wind energy, especially at campuses with suitable geographic conditions, and investigate hybrid systems that integrate solar and wind for continuous power.
- Timeline: Assess feasibility within 3 years and initiate pilot programs.
- Expected Impact: Further reduction of reliance on non-renewable sources.
Renewable Energy Partnerships
- Green Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)
The university will pursue green power purchasing agreements to source renewable energy from wind and solar farms, ensuring a reliable and renewable energy supply for our campuses.
- Timeline: Immediate assessment and partnership development over the next 5 years.
- Expected Impact: Potential to offset remaining non-renewable energy use as we transition to on-site renewables.
- Collaboration with Local and National Initiatives
By collaborating with government and non-governmental organizations dedicated to renewable energy, Amrita will contribute to the development and adoption of clean energy projects.
- Timeline: Ongoing collaboration and partnership efforts.
- Expected Impact: Increased renewable energy accessibility and awareness in local communities.
Energy Conservation and Efficiency
- Enhanced Building Energy Efficiency
Improve the energy efficiency of campus buildings by upgrading lighting, HVAC systems, and insulation, while implementing energy management systems to reduce demand.
- Timeline: Ongoing, with annual assessments.
- Expected Impact: 20-30% reduction in energy demand, minimizing overall energy requirements.
- Behavioral Programs
- Launch programs encouraging students, staff, and faculty to adopt energy-saving practices, such as responsible appliance use, reducing electricity wastage, and conserving resources.
- Timeline: Immediate, with continuous promotion.
- Expected Impact: 10% reduction in energy usage through behavioral changes.
Advocacy and Community Outreach
- Public Campaign for Renewable Energy Awareness
Amrita will lead a public campaign to raise awareness about renewable energy and inspire individuals, organizations, and communities to take similar pledges for sustainable practices.
- Timeline: Launch within the next year, with annual initiatives.
- Expected Impact: Increase public awareness and community commitment to renewable energy.
- Educational Programs on Renewable Energy
- Develop and offer courses, workshops, and seminars focusing on renewable energy technologies, sustainability, and climate change mitigation, educating students and the larger community.
- Timeline: Curriculum updates and program launches over the next 2 years.
- Expected Impact: Empower the next generation of renewable energy advocates.
Monitoring and Reporting
The Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility Committee will track progress toward the 100% renewable energy goal by:
- Conducting annual energy audits to evaluate renewable energy usage and identify improvement opportunities.
- Publishing an annual report on the university’s progress, challenges, and achievements toward the renewable energy goal.
- Adjusting strategies based on data, research findings, and stakeholder feedback.
Expected Outcomes
By achieving 100% renewable energy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham anticipates the following outcomes:
- A significant reduction in campus carbon emissions, contributing to global climate goals.
- Operational cost savings by decreasing dependency on non-renewable energy sources.
- A role model impact in the field of sustainable higher education, encouraging others to make similar commitments.
