WORLD'S BIGGEST SOLAR KITCHEN AT MOUNT ABU

World's biggest solar kitchen in Rajasthan, India

A modular solar system near Mount Abu in Rajasthan can feed 38,500 people daily.

A solar steam cooking system designed to generate 4000 kg of steam per day, enough to cook meals for 10,000 people has been installed at Taleti, near Mount Abu in Rajasthan. It is probably the world's biggest solar kitchen. At a height of 1,300 above sea level, when solar radiation peaks on certain days, the system can provide for 38,500 people apparently. The structure produces temperatures of 650 degrees C, which help cook rice and vegetables in massive industrial pots of 200 and 400 litres.

Installed by the Brahmakumari's organization (Brahmakumari's Academy for a Better World), an organization that is interested in renewable energy technologies and is inspired by a vision of a modern village-style complex in a rural setting, the initiative is part of a special demonstration project of the MNES, Government of India.

Modular in nature, the system consists of six units connected to a central steam pipeline, which further goes to the kitchen. Every unit is fitted with 14 dish concentrators consisting of 10 m2 reflector surface area. Apart from the mirrors, which are imported from Germany, the entire structure is indigenously procured, and assembled in the workshop itself. Additionally, an oil-fired boiler ensures that the system can function under all conditions.

The Brahmakumari's organization has spent $5 million on this project. The actual cost is higher as this figure only covers the installation charges. Additionally, there is dedicated manpower who work night and day, as well as a workshop facility that incurs expenditures.

A similar system was successfully installed at the Brahmakumari's Ashram in 1997 and continues to feed up to 1000 people every day.