Shore Temple: Know more about India’s first-ever green energy archaeological site

As a result of the Green Heritage Project's endeavours, the Shore Temple in Tamil Nadu will now be illuminated using clean and sustainable solar energy.

shore temple, unesco world heritage site

Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. (Source: Wikimedia Commons)

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Dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, the Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu has achieved a significant milestone by becoming India’s first-ever green energy archaeological site. Dating back to the 7th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the oldest stone temples in South India.

This impressive accomplishment has been made possible through the efforts of Renault Nissan Technology & Business Centre India in collaboration with Hand in Hand India, who have successfully implemented the Green Heritage Project.

As a result of the Green Heritage Project’s endeavours, the Shore Temple in Tamil Nadu will now be illuminated using clean and sustainable solar energy. Three solar plants — each with a capacity of 10 kilowatts — have been strategically placed to harness the abundant solar power in the region. Notably, any surplus energy produced by these solar plants will be channelled back into the grid as storage, ensuring that it contributes to future energy needs while reducing ecological impact.

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Apart from the adoption of solar power to illuminate the Shore Temple, the project also aims to accentuate the overall guest experience and minimise the ecological footprint of tourism in the region.

The Shore Temple derives its name from the fact that it overlooks the shore of Bay of Bengal. (Source: Wikimedia Commons)

Another facility that contributes to the mission of the project is the solar-operated reverse osmosis plant, which delivers clean drinking water to tourists. Additionally, in keeping up with the growth of electric vehicles (EVs), the project has taken steps to promote clean transportation. A dedicated parking shed with three charging units has been installed to facilitate the recharging of EVs.

Furthermore, the Green Heritage Project aims to empower the local community by generating jobs. Women from the local area have been employed to operate electric buggies, which serve as a sustainable mode of transportation, especially benefitting pregnant women, senior citizens and individuals with disabilities. This not only promotes inclusivity, but also minimises the carbon footprint connected with traditional modes of transportation.

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The Shore Temple derives its name from the fact that it overlooks the shore of Bay of Bengal. Consisting of three different shrines, the temples’ architecture is a seamless blend of Dravidian and Pallava styles. Open to public from 6 am to 6 pm, the temple is well-connected with the rest of city. Visitors can take a bus to Mahabalipuram from Kanchipuram. Meanwhile, you can walk around or cycle your way through the campus of the temple and explore the small town.

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