Leather manufacturers in the Ranipet-Ambur-Vaniyambadi belt of Tamil Nadu are slowly switching from firewood-based heating systems to solar-powered technology in an effort to reduce pollution and save money.
In the past, these tanneries relied heavily on firewood to run their heating systems, especially for drying leather using automatic sprayer driers. But over the last few years, 15–20 tanneries in Ranipet’s SIPCOT Complex have started using solar air heaters and solar hot water systems during the dyeing and finishing stages.
This shift comes with challenges. The upfront cost of installing solar equipment and the space required are major concerns. Still, industry experts say the long-term gains are worth it.
“Installation costs and space required for solar systems are challenges to adapt to clean energy technology by tanneries. However, in the long run, the benefits of clean energy are more stable”
S. Gopalakrishnan, Engineering Maintenance Manager, Overseas Leathers
Each drier in a tannery consumes about 20–25 units of electricity per hour. With at least three driers running daily, that adds up to around 600 units of power per day. Firewood, the older alternative, costs about ₹7,500 (~$88) per day for an 8-hour operation roughly ₹2.25 lakh (~$2700) per month.
A Theni-based solar energy company, SunBest, is helping tanneries make the switch. According to the company, solar panels work well throughout the year, except during the monsoon season. However, smaller units may need help to afford the change.
“Except during monsoon, solar air heating panels can generate power to run driers. Government subsidy to tanneries, especially micro units, which find it challenging to afford solar powered driers, will help to promote clean energy technology to a wider audience”
C.P. Rajkumar, CEO, SunBest
There are over 700 tanneries in the region, with Vaniyambadi alone accounting for about 40% of them. Many still rely on coal or thermal energy, contributing to air pollution. Around 55% of the energy used in these factories comes from thermal sources.
Officials are now encouraging a wider shift to clean energy. Ranipet Collector J.U. Chandrakala recently urged local manufacturers to consider solar energy, noting that Tamil Nadu has some of the highest solar radiation levels in India.
Source – The Hindu
