Team Goemkarponn
MERCES: A housing society in Merces has become the first residential community in Goa to fully transition towards maximum solar energy adoption, marking a significant step in the state’s renewable energy movement.
The initiative, spearheaded by Goa-based climate technology company Anmax Energy, was formally inaugurated in the presence of Rodolfo Fernandes, MLA of St. Cruz, along with Anupa Khorjuvekar, Assistant Manager Engineering at Goa Energy Development Agency (GEDA), Prashant Mantri, Secretary of Vision Royale Cooperative Housing Maintenance Society, residents and other stakeholders.
The solar transition has been implemented under the Central Government’s PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana and the Goa State Solar Subsidy Scheme. Organisers described the project as a practical model for other cooperative housing societies looking to adopt clean energy solutions.
Officials said the initiative transforms residents from conventional electricity consumers into energy producers. Rooftop solar systems installed across the society now generate electricity that can be consumed domestically while excess power is exported back to the grid, enabling several residents to achieve net-zero electricity bills. In some instances, residents reportedly receive credit payments for surplus energy supplied.
Apart from reducing electricity costs, the project also introduced a blockchain-based circular economy model developed by Anmax Energy. Residents using solar power are rewarded with Climate Action Tokens (CATs), which can be redeemed within a dedicated marketplace for locally grown produce, solar services and other circular economy products.
A live demonstration during the event showcased a blockchain transaction carried out using the climate action tokens through the company’s BASIC (Blockchain Assisted Sustainable Inclusive and Circular) ecosystem.
Speaking at the event, Anant Kochhar, Founding Director of Anmax Energy, said the initiative aimed to build environmentally conscious communities while incentivising sustainable lifestyles through technology-driven rewards.
He also welcomed a recent circular issued by Registrar of Cooperative Societies Ashutosh Apte encouraging housing societies across Goa to facilitate participation in the PM Surya Ghar scheme.
Meanwhile, Rodolfo Fernandes shared his personal experience with solar technology, stating that his household electricity bill had drastically reduced after installing rooftop solar panels. He expressed hope that more housing societies and homeowners in Goa would adopt similar renewable energy solutions after witnessing the success of the Merces project.
The company also announced special solar installation packages for housing societies with common-area power requirements of 15 KW and above, claiming that available subsidies could significantly reduce installation costs and help societies recover investments within a short period.
