Clean Energy for Merigar 

A Step Towards Energy Independence

The Clean Energy for Merigar project was made possible thanks to the support of the Italian Buddhist Union (UBI), which believed in our vision and contributed the necessary funds for its implementation. Thanks to this grant, Merigar has been able to undertake a concrete path towards energy autonomy and environmental sustainability, reducing its dependence on fossil fuels and improving the efficiency of its facilities. This intervention is not only a benefit for the center but represents a model of sustainable development that can inspire other similar realities. On behalf of the entire community, we express our deep gratitude to UBI for this extraordinary opportunity.

 

Merigar is a place of great spiritual and cultural value, founded in 1981 by Chögyal Namkhai Norbu, which welcomes practitioners from all over the world. Located on the hills of Mount Amiata, the center has always sought to harmonize its activities with the surrounding environment. However, the harsh winter climate and high consumption of fossil fuels have necessitated a significant shift towards a more sustainable energy model.

With the Clean Energy for Merigar project, a transformation has begun that has improved energy autonomy and reduced the environmental impact of the center. Two 17.80 kWp photovoltaic systems have been installed, equipped with 40.5 kWh storage systems, to ensure energy continuity and reduce dependence on the electrical grid. Additionally, high-efficiency heating systems with heat pumps have been implemented, optimized to ensure uniform and programmable climate control in the main buildings.

From Vision to Realization

The main objective of the project was to reduce fossil fuel consumption and ensure a more efficient energy system for the main buildings: the Yellow House, the Gönpa (the Temple of Great Contemplation), and the Zi House. The intervention developed through several key phases:

  • Installation of Photovoltaic Panels

The photovoltaic systems, located on the roofs of the Yellow House and the Zi House, ensure a constant energy supply, reducing dependence on the national grid. The energy produced is stored in accumulation systems, allowing for the management of demand peaks and ensuring continuity even in case of blackouts, a rather frequent phenomenon at Merigar.

For both structures, the photovoltaic panels were recessed into the roof covering, improving their aesthetic integration and ensuring maximum solar exposure.

  • Roof Maintenance and Improvement

The installation of solar panels was accompanied by extraordinary maintenance work on the roofs, made possible by the presence of scaffolding.

At the Zi House, deteriorated materials were replaced with more resistant cement tiles, waterproofing tar paper was applied, roof ridges were rebuilt, and copper coverings were installed on wooden beams to increase durability. Additionally, gutters were repaired and lifelines were installed, essential for ensuring safety in future maintenance.

Similar interventions were carried out at the Yellow House, with the rebuilding of ridges and the application of tar paper in exposed areas. Furthermore, the photovoltaic panels were recessed into the roof, improving their aesthetic integration.

  • A More Efficient Heating System

The new heat pumps installed at the Gönpa and the Zi House ensure a more efficient heating system compared to the old fossil fuel combustion systems. Thanks to a remote management system, our caretaker (Geko) can program heating according to the needs of different activities. For example, for Yantra Yoga, a higher temperature is maintained, while for Khaita dances, a cooler environment is preferred.A

t the Gönpa, the system was enhanced with the replacement of all thermo-convectors and the addition of two units for a more uniform heat distribution. Additionally, the new system offers the possibility of cooling the spaces during summer.

  • Monitoring and Expected Results

To ensure maximum system performance, the project includes a year of monitoring through a dedicated system that records in real-time:

  • Photovoltaic energy production
  • Building consumption
  • Battery usage and energy fed into the grid

Thanks to this project, the Gönpa can be used more frequently even in winter months, thanks to reduced heating costs. Additionally, maintaining a more stable temperature will contribute to the preservation of its precious paintings and decorations, as well as preserving the wooden structure and ensuring greater longevity.

This transformation not only represents an immediate benefit for Merigar but is also an example of how spirituality and environmental sustainability can be combined. Reducing ecological impact, improving comfort, and ensuring energy efficiency of the structures means investing in a more conscious and harmonious future with the environment.

An annual production of 42,720 kWh is estimated, sufficient to cover Merigar's energy needs and ensure greater autonomy from traditional energy sources. At the end of the first year of operation, data on production and energy savings will be shared.

A More Sustainable Future for Merigar

Thanks to this project, the Gönpa can be used more frequently even in winter months, thanks to reduced heating costs. Additionally, maintaining a more stable temperature will contribute to the preservation of its precious paintings and decorations, as well as preserving the wooden structure and ensuring greater longevity.

This transformation not only represents an immediate benefit for Merigar but is also an example of how spirituality and environmental sustainability can be combined. Reducing ecological impact, improving comfort, and ensuring energy efficiency of the structures means investing in a more conscious and harmonious future with the environment.