Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB)

Udupi, Sep 24: The tidal power plant is now stepping into the third unit developed by B Vijay Kumar Hegde of Susi research center, Shivalli, Udupi.

At a press meet Susi explained, "The tidal power plant will be of significance to Udupi district. It has received good response and offers from across the nation and abroad. In the first attempt, the capacity of the power plant was 1 kilo watt. Now it produces 5 kilo watts. It has the capacity to generate electricity for 5 homes’ lights (day and night).

Another interesting fact is that an MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) for a tidal power plant in England will soon begin. There are also plans to launch a plant in Malaysia.

The government is uncertain about which department the tidal project comes under. The project has a lot of demand overseas because of its unique features and cost effectiveness.

He requires a constant wave pressure at Kemmannu beach in order to erect the third unit with the floating ball and its machines.

Hegde’s other project is a 60% gas saving oven which has received orders from Dubai. Stoves absorb heat and retain it, thereby cooking food faster than ordinary cookers which lose heat to the surroundings. The energy saving oven is very beneficial to Indian hotels as it saves Rs 2, 000 per day," he added.

Another of Hegde’s projects is a self charging battery for railways as well as automobiles. Work on it is in progress.

Prof Narayana Shanbhag, a retired principal of Canara College was presented Rs 1 lac in cash as appreciation for his effort. Shanbhag opined that, "It is a matter of pride. Hegde is a courageous person and I too have a similar vision. So I would like to work with him throughout his venture."