Daimler raises solar power capacity at Chennai plant

The Dollar Business Bureau

Germany-based auto maker Daimler has enhanced the solar power capacity at its plant in Chennai to the next level that would meet the “one-fourth of the regular daytime power" requirement for the plant.

"Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV), the fully-owned arm of Daimler AG, has increased its solar power capacity at the manufacturing unit in Oragadam near Chennai to its next level,” a company release said.

“After the completion of a key addition to the prevailing photovoltaic installations, the total technical capacity increased to 3.3 MW from 0.8 MW,” it added.

The additional solar energy field, set up on earlier idle expanses of land within the facility’s highly advanced test track zone for commercial vehicle, comprises more than 10,000 polycrystalline photovoltaic panels.

Speaking on the achievement, Marc Llistosella, President & CEO, MFTBC and Head, Daimler Trucks Asia, said, “At Daimler, we try to reduce the negative effects on environment from our operations with the support of efficient environmental management systems and cutting edge technologies.”

“This project is a perfect example how Daimler Trucks Asia promotes climate protection, conserves valuable resources and contributes to the preservation of a livable environment,” he added.

Erich Nesselhauf, MD & CEO, DICV, said, “Several green production initiatives have been a vital part of our manufacturing facility and operations from the beginning. The huge expansion of our solar energy facilities shows our commitment towards sustainability as well as environmental protection.”

Daimler’s Oragadam plant in Chennai is spread across 400 acres. Since the facility started in 2012, more than 16,000 trees have been planted, as part of the company’s efforts to make the whole site one of the greenest industrial facilities in India.