Rock band generates solar energy to power its performance

Applauded by a throng of enthusiastic students, a New York rock band, which uses solar energy to power its performances, spread the message of environmental awareness and conservation at a concert here Saturday.

Described by its members as "part journalism, part classroom, part multi-cultural bridge builder and all rock and roll", Solar Punch highlighted water issues, food issues, air quality, among others during its performance at the Amar Singh College here.

Solar beats: The US rock band powers its performances through solar energy (Photo: IANS)

The event saw many students from the over 300-strong audience joining the performance. All the electric power requirement was met by solar power generated by solar panels erected on a van accompanying the rock band.

"Our original music is about the environment, ecology and social issues relevant to a sustainable lifestyle," said Solar Punch founders James Dean Conklin and Alan Bigelow.

"We use music to sing about science and environment and hold workshops to explain solar concepts. We believe the actions by one person can make some difference towards protection of our environment and the action by many can make a massive difference.

"We are in Jammu and Kashmir this November for a visit meeting individuals and groups involved in environmental education programmes and activism," they said.

The organisers, India Youth Climate Network, said the event was to create awareness about environment and climate solutions through a music performance.

The organisers said there would also be a performance by the local Sufi rock band Umeed - The Rhythmic Expectation during the band's current visit to Kashmir. - IANS