EQ Magazine June 2022 Edition : India's No.1 and Oldest Magazine on Solar Power & Renewables Since 2

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CONT EN T

VOLUME 14 Issue #06

Disclaimer,Limitations of Liability While every efforts has been made to ensure the high quality and accuracy of EQ international and all our authors research articles with the greatest of care and attention ,we make no warranty concerning its content,and the magazine is provided on an>> as is <<basis.EQ international contains advertising and third –party contents.EQ International is not liable for any third- party content or error,omission or inaccuracy in any advertising material ,nor is it responsible for the availability of external web sites or their contents

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FEATURED

ACME GROUP ANNOUNCES GREEN HYDROGEN AND AMMONIA PROJECT IN TAMIL NADU

33 INDIA

BATTERY-SWAPPING: INDUSTRY WANTS INCLUSION OF HIGHER-RANGE VEHICLES IN POLICY

62 HYDROGEN HYDROGEN AT RISK OF BEING THE GREAT MISSED OPPORTUNITY OF THE ENERGY TRANSITION

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The data and information presented in this magazine is provided for informational purpose only.neither EQ INTERNATINAL ,Its affiliates,Information providers nor content providers shall have any liability for investment decisions based up on or the results obtained from the information provided. Nothing contained in this magazine should be construed as a recommendation to buy or sale any securities. The facts and opinions stated in this magazine do not constitute an offer on the part of EQ International for the sale or purchase of any securities, nor any such offer intended or implied Restriction on use The material in this magazine is protected by international copyright and trademark laws. You may not modify,copy,reproduce,republish,post,transmit,or distribute any part of the magazine in any way.you may only use material for your personall,NonCommercial use, provided you keep intact all copyright and other proprietary notices. want to use material for any non-personel,non commercial purpose,you need written permission from EQ International.

ELECTRIC VEHICLE

KARNATAKA CM BOMMAI WANTS CHEAPER ELECTRIC VEHICLES FOR QUICKER SHIFT TO EVS

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FEATURED

Growatt ranked first globally for residential inverter shipments two years in a row

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FEATURED

Central vs String Inverter in Big Utility Scale Solar Power Plants

12 INTERVIEW MR. PRASHANT MATHUR

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INTERVIEW

INTERVIEW

MR. AMIT BARVE

MR. ANKIT SINGHANIA

BUSINESS & FINANCE

ADANI GROUP JOINS HANDS WITH TOTALENERGIES FOR ITS USD 50 BILLION GREEN HYDROGEN VENTURE

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EQ NEWS Pg. 08-64 Interviews Pg. 12-17

ENERGY STORAGE INDIAN BATTERY RECYCLING COMPANY ATTERO WILL INVEST USD 1 BILLION TO BUILD FACTORIES IN THE US, POLAND, AND INDONESIA

CLIMATE CHANGE

DEVELOPING COUNTRIES’ CLIMATE ACTIONS CONTINGENT ON DELIVERY OF FINANCE,TECH TRANSFER: UNION MIN

Founded in 1993, Shenzhen KSTAR Science and Technology Co., Ltd. is a leading brand in power electronics and new energy products, including data center critical infrastructure (UPS, battery, precision distribution),modular & container data center solutions, PV and ESS solutions.

According to the IHS Markit latest report, Kstar ranked fifth in the global UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) market and ranked top ten in the inverter market.

FEATURED ACME Group announces Green Hydrogen and Ammonia project in Tamil Nadu ACME Group announced a green hydrogen and green ammonia project in the state of Tamil Nadu. The initial agreement with the State Government was signed in presence of Hon’ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu Thiru M K Stalin during the Tamil Nadu Investment Conclave. The project entails an investment of Rs 52,474 crore.

Mr. Manoj K Upadhyay, Founder & Chairman, ACME Group said, “I would like to thank the Hon’ble Chief Minister Mr. M K Stalin and his team for accepting our proposal for setting up a plant in the state of Tamil Nadu. This will be one of the largest plants in India and perhaps the largest in the world. This plant will produce green hydrogen and ammonia, which will help to de-carbonize sectors such as fertilizers, power, refining and steel, among others. The project requires four ingredients – solar radiation, access to port, availability of land and skilled resources. Tamil Nadu offers all of these. This will be one of the largest plants in India and perhaps largest in the world.”

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Mr. Sandeep Kashyap, COO, ACME Group said, “This project will comprise 5,000 mw of solar PV plant, 1.5 GW of the electrolyzer and 1.1 million tonnes of ammonia synthesis loop. ACME is willing to work with the Government to help not only to build this project but also to create an ecosystem of smaller units. We extend our gratitude to the Government of Tamil Nadu for the confidence and support offered to us.”

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FEATURED

Central vs String Inverter in Big Utility Scale Solar Power Plants The webinar was held by EQ Magazine on 20th May 2022. It was moderated by Mr. Sanjay Kumar, Head – Global Strategic Sourcing & SCM – Larsen & Toubro (MODERATOR). Mr. Sanjay Kumar discussed very rigorously new development, technologies, and a thorough differentiation of central and the string inverters.

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n the following webinar, Mr. Sanjay Kumar very lithely discussed the various spectrum and various parameters of the string and central inverters based on performance, technol- Mr. Shantanu Sirsath Technical Head India – Growatt New Energy Delivered ogy, quality, and the cost.

Mr. Subir Karmakar, Dy General Manager, RE Engineering – NTPC LTD (KEYNOTE) Demonstrated the technical side of the central and the string inverter, where he separately discussed the advantages and obstacles of string and central inverters based on technology.

Mr. Subir very gracefully cleared out all the doubts and queries related to each inverter. In further conversation, he thoroughly explained the reactive compensation to the grid and the vital role of the inverter in the reactive compensation.

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a brief introduction about Growatt, a company that is a new energy enterprise dedicated to the R&D and manufacturing of PV inverters, Energy storage, and EV charger as well as smart Energy Management Solutions. The company is in the market since 2010 and has reached more than 108 countries worldwide. Most of the Growatt inverters are used in the application of residential rooftop, C&I as well as for the utility segment.

In further discussion, Mr. Shantanu talk about the products and the solutions which they are offering in India as well as in the global market and again postulated the different milestones that Growatt has achieved in the past 12 years. In further discussion Mr. Shantanu brought to light different aspects of selecting the inverters. statistically the developers and IPPs going with the string inverters because of the advantages in terms of long terms of availability, serviceability and the up time whereas in custom prospective EPCs are preferring the central inverters due to the costing factor.

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FEATURED Mr. C Chaudhary, Chief Operating Officer – Amp Energy India Explained the importance of inverters in big utility-scale solar power plants, he pointed out some of the key factors for the selection process of the inverter for the utility projects, such as the overloading factor, efficiency factor, availability factor, IGBT factor, and most importantly the BOS score and the sustainability factor of the inverter.

Mr. Rajesh Tiwari, Lead- Central Design & Engg (Solar Grid) – Hero Future Energies Dispatched his views on the importance of the selection of the geographical location and the terrain for the better performance of the inverters whether it’s a string or the central.

In Mr. Tiwari’s opinion, one cannot choose between the string and the Central inverter, since the inverter’s performance totally depends upon the geographical site, as both the inverter demands different weather conditions and the geographic locality, and can execute accordingly. In the later conversation, Mr. Tiwari suggested CPRI build the kind of laboratory where the actual site condition get tests.

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Mr. Manoj Kumar Goyal, Design Lead – Azure Power Continued the panel with an intense discussion about the pros and cons of both the inverters. Firstly from a capacity point of view, the central inverter has a larger capacity which comes up to 5 megawatts, whereas the string inverter just reached up to 300 kilowatts. Secondly, performance-wise string inverters won the race, as it has the advantage of multiple MPPT. In his opinion string inverter is winning the race because of their multiple MPPT and as the era has completely changed central inverters are apart from today’s scenario. In the further conversation, Mr. Manoj suggested the techno commercial analysis to get a good return while designing a big utility plan.

Ms. Vallisaranya Guruprasad, Design Engineering Manager – Tata Power Solar Systems Limited Shared her significant outlook concerning today’s market scenario.

In her opinion, each inverter has it’s for and against correspondingly. Miss Saranya asserted about the problems they are facing in each sector for acquiring the land connectivity approval, plus the tariff is also being the significant game in the solar sector presently.

From an LCOE point of view, she believes that to bring out the fewer LCOE costs string inverters need to be developed in a better way. Miss Saranya specified some key parameters which need to be evaluated while the selection of the inverters is, the IGBT selection, verification of the software, component selection in the inverter, and the temperature-wise calculation.

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INTERVIEW

Mr. Prashant Mathur C.E.O SAATVIK GROUP

Q-1. What kind of changes do you see in the industry after the BCD implementation on Solar Panels?

Ans: - The Ministry of Finance has imposed BCD on Solar modules & cells with effect from 1st April 2022.

Considering this perspective action taken by the government, the market will witness enormous demand in the near future and will undoubtedly seek a potential increase. To support BCD, the government has also launched PLI schemes in India, allowing manufacturers and suppliers to sell the best quality solar panels and modules while receiving indirect support in the conversion to clean and green energy, allowing players to incrementally increase their production capacity.

In order to capitalize on the exponential economic opportunity, Saatvik Group plans to grow its manufacturing capacity from 1GW/ Annum to 3GW/Annum as the market's demand and supply increase.

Q-3. What Kind of products and new technologies you are going to launch in this or next financial year?

Ans:- At Saatvik we are always open to adopting new technology and implementing them as an up-gradation practice for generating the best quality products and strongly believe in delivering the latest and most advanced techno products in the market at competitive pricing. Currently, at Saatvik we are into the manufacturing and supplying of M-10 modules which have now been further upgraded to G-12, and all the ground research work and approvals are already lined up, Testing in the plant in terms of technical know-how is underway and soon the company forays to launch this technology in Indian and Global market providing improved and better quality products for end consumers. The company is speeding up in using Topcon cells technology and several talks are already initiated to implement this technology into operations.

Q-2. what does the Dynamics of Price- Demand – Supply looks like for this and the next year?

Q-4. What Kind of Pricing and technology roadmap do you see coming through in the industry?

Ans) The solar industry in India has grown significantly in recent years, as the government has emphasized lowering dependence on cell imports from China and exploring alternatives. As the government has become extremely active in lowering carbon emissions and generating power from accessible natural resources demand solar projects has raised up. As the price of panels and cells in India fluctuates owing to rising demand in the worldwide market, the coming years in India will be extremely lucrative for the solar business. As the transition from fossil to renewable energy accelerates, the demand and supply for solar modules and panels will change substantially.

Ans:- Conversion from fossil to renewable energy will surely give Solar Industry a pace in demand and supply as several new adoptions to advanced technology will be introduced and practiced, Solar will become even more affordable in the future years as technology advances. Solar might become the most important source of energy for power production in a significant part of the world by 2030. This will also benefit the ecology and combat climate change.

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Q-5. what’s the total quantity you supplied to India in the Last 1 year and what are the expectations for the coming year?

Ans: - In the last financial year Saatvik has

supplied 350 MW+ Solar PV Modules in Indian Market achieving remarkable benchmarks by becoming the 3rd most preferred brand supplying Solar panels and modules.

The company has strategized its supply plan for the current financial year and targets to supply 750 MW+ Solar PV Modules in the market.

Q-6. what’s your View on the ALMM/BIS etc.…?

Ans:- ALMM(Approved list of models and manufacturers) and BIS approvals by the Indian Govt is a highly appreciable approach towards streaming the industry in the right directions conducting necessary testing and providing authorization certificates. This step will surely ensure that the industry players maintain regulatory standards and protocols viewing product safety delivered at the end consumer end. This initiative will surely encourage new and emerging players in standardization and support indirectly in Make in India scheme introduced by the Govt of India employing opportunities in providing employment, conducting trading and export practices, and the main converting towards the clean and green sources of energy saving huge on pockets in terms of expenditure caused in paying electricity bills.

Q-7. what is the opportunity in India currently…. In terms of projects in Tender, Pipeline Etc.…Opportunities in manufacturing?

Ans: - The Indian solar business has seen exponential development, with more than 10GW expected in the fiscal year 2021-22.

In Line with the government’s vision to make India a Zero Emission country by 2030, new initiatives and support policies are drafted to support module manufacturers. Indian market will surely see an unexpected growth by 2030 rising up the production capacity upto 30ME+ giving unpredicted opportunities to convert into power generation sources to clean and green energy.

Q-8. how has the rupee devaluation affected the solar industry and your business?

Ans: - The depreciating rupee has surely impacted the industry to an extent as the variation between the time of bidding and till finalization of the module supply agreement, there is always a decent chance in the currency depicting towards price high or low.

Q-9. what kind of Solar Tariff trends do you see in the coming future?

Ans:- Solar tariff in coming years can depetcilly witness up’s and down as the market is leading towards stability, Government is introducing several policies and SOP to stabilize the market and provide benefits to players. Govt planis to introduce several PLI Schemes to support the installation and conversion towards the usage of renewable energy.

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INTERVIEW as Gujarat issuing tender of 700 MW of residential solar, Karanataka issuing tender of 50 MW residential solar etc. India is chasing its huge goal to achieve 500 GW by 2030.

There are wide opportunities in manufacturing as Government is encouraging domestic players.

Mr. Ankit Singhania Director & Co-founder Navitas Solar Q-7. How has the rupee devaluation affected the Solar Industry and your business

Q-1. What kind of changes do you see in the Industry after the BCD Implementation on Solar Panels Ans: - After the implementation of BCD, we see that more developers and power project owners are buying Made in India modules.

We see huge potential in Indian solar market in upcoming time and keeping this in mind, many module manufacturers are increasing their capacity as well. We at Navitas Solar are increasing our module manufacturing capacity from 200 MW to 500 MW per annum.

With the new expansion, we will be able to produce Mono PERC Half cut modules ranging from 435 to 600 Watts Q-2. How does the Dynamics of Price - Demand - Supply Looks Like for this and the next year Ans: - The price-demand-supply dynamics will be very volatile this year. A continuous fluctuation in price is estimated in the solar market this year. There is a sudden increase in price due to BCD and many projects are kept on hold because of it. However, we see that things are getting normal, Chinese prices are also becoming more stable and the future demand has started increasing. The key factor dominating the complete solar market will be the price.

Q-3. What Kind of products and new technologies you are going to launch in this or next financial year?

Ans: - We are delighted to launch Bonito series-Mono PERC Half Cut modules this year.

Bonito Pro will be available in 9 BB in 166 mm cell size (M6) in 144 cells & 156 cells producing 435 to 500 Watts. Bonito Max will be available in 10 BB in 182 mm cell size (M10) in 144 & 156 cells and producing 530 to 600 Watts.

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Q-4. What kind of Pricing and Technology Roadmap do you see coming through in the Industry Ans: - We see that many companies are adopting MBB (Multi Bus-Bars) modules and the demand of MBB modules is increasing day by day. Looking at the overall picture, we see that M10 size modules will be the choice of the consumers. Moreover, the awareness about the bifacial glass-glass modules and Ntype TOPCON technology has increased in the market.

Ans: - Most of the raw material is still being imported whose payment is kept on hold, which lands up the investor in a big trouble.

Transacting in dollar is adversely affecting manufacturers and end users alike. With the current push of BCD and ALMM, we hope to see many Indian manufacturers not limited to cell and module manufacturing but also in other raw materials also like EVA, back sheet, glass, junction box etc. We ourselves are manufacturing EVA sheet with the capacity of 750 MW per annum and expanding to about 2 GW in coming couple of months.

Q-5. What’s your views on the ALMM / BIS etc…

Ans: - ALMM implementation is a huge step from the Government of India (GoI) to encourage domestic module manufacturers and it will surely help the economy to circulate within the country. We have successfully enlisted most of the companies under ALMM for modules less than 400 Wp. In coming future, this list will be updated with 545 Wp and above. ALMM will also help new cell companies to start solar cell manufacturing in India. Multiple companies have shown keen interest in starting cell manufacturing in India. One of the challenge with ALMM is that Mono PERC cells made in India are not available widely and the demand for Mono PERC modules is high. It will take a couple of years to depend on domestic cells only but with the implementation of ALMM I think it’s possible.

Q-8. What kind of Solar Tariff Trends do you see coming Ans: - Solar tariffs are likely to be increased to ₹2.95/kWh in this year. This increase is mainly because of the Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on imported raw material and modules. Solar tariffs has seen an upward trend from ₹1.99 /kWh in 2020 to ₹2.95/kWh in 2022(Predicted). It is predicted that solar tariffs may reach to ₹2.43/kWh when considered for duty free imported modules, ₹2.95/ kWh when subjected to BCD and ₹2.26/kWh when considered for the procurement of domestic modules. Keeping this in mind, the future solar projects may experience lower tariffs than thermal projects, so it will be easy to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy systems.

Q-6. What is the Opportunity in India Currently…in Terms of Projects in Tender, Pipeline etc…Opportunities in Manufacturing etc…

Ans: - India is on its way to meet its renewable energy goals. There are many huge tenders and projects out in the solar market such

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INTERVIEW Q-9. Visible Changes in RE Industry w.r.t.

Energy Storage, RTC, Hybrid RE Projects, Floating etc and their likely impact.

Q-13. What’s your expectations from the Government, Policy Makers and Regulators

Ans: - We see a boom in the Energy storage industry as more people are adopting electric two wheelers and cars. Very soon, there will be increasing awareness in Energy storage, especially in micro and grid level. Multiple new wind-solar hybrid projects have been announced which will further help to adopt Energy Storage systems to improve continuity and reliability of the supply. With the high penetration of RE, storage will be essential in future to ensure round the clock power. Regarding floating solar, we see a huge market especially on canals and lakes. It also has a positive impact on environment as it protects the evaporation of water. With more and more manufacturers providing glass-glass panels, reliability and feasibility of such projects have increased. All these new technologies will be adapted in India but it will take certain time. Even solar industry took its time to be adapted among the customers.

Ans: - Our expectations from the government, policy makers and the regulators are that they should fast track the implementation of BCD and ALMM. Moreover, solar policies are frequently changing, therefore we expect that the stability of the policies should be maintained. Right now, in every state of India, there are different solar policies, so one national level policy should be formed and implemented as a standard.

Q-10. How has the COP 26 and the rise of Voluntary Carbon Markets and corresponding rise in the Volume and prices of the carbon credits impacted the Solar industry and its stakeholders…How has the Demand from C&I Entities for Solar Projects been.

Ans: - COP 26 has set huge goals for India and we together as a nation will achieve the targets. Of course, after COP 26, the volume of VCM has increased and the credit prices are increased as well. Nowadays, corporate sustainability is not a mere point of talk but it has converted into actions. Stakeholders and investors want to know how the organization is affecting the environment and that is why the awareness amongst the corporates has also increased with the time. We are extremely delighted to announce that Navitas Solar has become a Carbon Neutral organization.

We have achieved a “Bronze” level for 2020 and a “Silver” level for 2021 from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) on climate reporting under the ‘Climate Neutral Now’ initiative.

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Q-11. India couldn’t achieve the RE Capacity Targets Set for 2022 and now has set up another ambitious target for 2030….

What’s are your views on the same. Key Learnings, Expectations Ans: - It is expected to achieve 100 GW Solar installation by 2022. Government has already floated tenders to achieve the massive target. Target of achieving 500 GW by 2030 seems to be huge but we surely think that it can be achievable. Right now, we are running behind our target time and expectations.

India’s contribution to global climate action is significant and we should work together as a nation to achieve the massive target of Indian Government. To achieve our ambitious renewable energy targets for 2030, we must avoid delays in project commissioning caused by the short-term surge in prices.

Q-14. Rise of Role of PSU’s in the RE Sector and your views on the same Ans: - PSUs are coming out with tenders for various projects; it will directly affect to achieve government’s huge renewable goals.

There are many huge tenders out in the solar market like 30 MW Floating Solar (FSPV) Plants on raw water reservoirs, 8 MW grid connected waste to energy project, 100 MW Floating Solar PV Project of end to end engineering service. Moreover, Minister for New and Renewable Energy(MNRE) has announced that India is setting up 50 solar parks of 40,000 MW capacity which will include many PSUs.

Q-12. What kind of growth do you see coming in the Residential Sector Demand Ans: - Residential sector has a huge potential to grow in future. When we talk about rooftop solar installation, it is perceived only as C&I as the residential rooftop solar has very small percentage amongst the total rooftop solar installation in India. The recent policy changes in Rooftop Solar including various subsidy announcements will encourage this sector’s growth. Apart from that, consumer awareness has also helped to grow the residential rooftop solar market. Nowadays, people of tier 2 and 3 cities are also having knowledge about rooftop solar and they have started installing solar.

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INTERVIEW

MR. AMIT BARVE Head – Solar Business Unit Panasonic Life Solutions India Limited

EQ: What kind of changes do you see in the Industry after the BCD Implementation on Solar Panels?

EQ: How does the Dynamics of Price - Demand - Supply Looks Like for this and the next year?

AB: Last year MNRE (Ministry of New & Renewable energy) announced ‘Basic Custom duties’ on imported solar cells (25%) and modules (40%) & implemented on April 1, 2022. The move was meant to encourage domestic manufacturing in India and curtail dependence on imported solar components. Considering India’s ambitious solar deployment targets aimed at the decarbonization of the economy – there is indeed a need for India to scale up its local production capacities and reduce its dependence on imports.

While this triggered a positive boost in making India self-reliant; the change also invited many roadblocks – e.g., lack of readiness in terms of manufacturing capacity, R&D required to be at par with advancing cell & module technologies, policy implementation aligned to actual adoption preparedness, impact on pre-determined projects timelines, supply-chain disruptions, etc. In short term till the time India do not have sufficient manufacturing capacities price competitiveness will be a big question on account of importing these components with applicable duties.

AB: Various factors are at play that determines the demand-supply dynamics in the solar sector today. We have witnessed local developers stocking up inventories to save on cost with BCD implementation. Further, with BCD coming in, prices are expected to go up and stay so for the next 1-2 years.

The demand for solar has been witnessing a rise worldwide given the push via COP26 summits, RE 100 goals, and coal shortages, amongst others. The question remains whether the domestic module manufacturers in India are fully equipped to meet the growing demand in solar and if consumers will have to pay for the higher cost of procuring locally made modules.

This supply-demand mismatch is another factor impacting solar module price increases. Other key reasons include commodity price hikes (glass, metals like copper, silver, aluminum), freight charges surge, etc. The BOS costs, inverters, module mounting structures, etc., are further impacted.

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INTERVIEW EQ: How has the COP 26 and the rise of Voluntary Carbon Markets and corresponding rise in the Volume and prices of the carbon credits impacted the Solar industry and its stakeholders…How has the Demand from C&I Entities for Solar Projects been?

AB: If we were to consider the past few years, the acceptance & need for solar has seen a consistent uptick. Increasingly, corporates globally & in India have been setting up decarbonizing and Net Zero goals to adopt a sustainability-oriented eco-system – esp. the energy-intensive companies. The COP26 outcome evoked a global shift toward sustainability. It highlighted the need to shift away from fossil fuels to combat climate change.

Commitments around reducing one billion tonnes of carbon by 2030, reducing the carbon intensity of GDP by 45% by 2030, and achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 reflect the importance of green energy. Thus, corporates are encouraged to consider green energy transition a serious strategic initiative. Industries integrating solar throughout the value chain have never been more significant.

To give you a perspective, In CY 2021, over 1.5 GW of projects have been installed with a year-on-year growth of 200%.

Cumulative rooftop solar installations are over 7 GW, with the C&I sector contributing over 80 percent share in the segment mix. The commercial and industrial sector decision-makers seem to have realized the advantages of adopting green energy, esp. solar, and the pandemic has, in fact only prompted further demand for rooftop solar. Even with uncertainties around regulatory and price volatility in the market, the economic benefits of clean energy trigger interest from corporates combined with the environmental benefits. Almost 200 companies have taken up the cause of "net-zero" emissions in unison basis the Paris climate accord. Companies can sell their carbon credits to other regulated companies that can use these purchased credits to reduce CO2/ greenhouse gas that they may emit. In general, carbon credits help limit the amount of CO2 emitted, which is a promising opportunity if implemented effectively.

EQ: India couldn’t achieve the RE Capacity Targets Set for 2022 and now has set up another ambitious target for 2030…. What are your views on the same? Key Learnings, Expectations?

AB: India is among the significant countries leading the race for solar power generation as its solar capacity has witnessed exponential growth in the past few years. In 2022, India has already crossed the milestone of surpassing the installed base of 50 GW in solar. This would have been impossible had we not set up aggressive targets of deploying solar energy as a significant part of our national goals towards fighting climate change and our declarations at the COP 26 summit. In terms of the volumes, due to multiple challenges we currently face, this seems like a big target. However, we are well placed to get close to this ambition. For example, several GW of projects are currently under installation, and additional GWs are getting tendered in the coming years. Moreover, the rooftop solar segment has been growing tremendously, and there have been multiple initiatives by the Government towards building this sector further, thereby making it a significant contributor to the total installed solar base. The Government has also focused on higher financial feasibilities for solar energy adoption. With the rising awareness of adverse climate change consequences, there is a revived interest in renewables across the country. For instance, IAE mentioned in their annual report that Solar has now become the king of electricity markets around the world including India. Therefore, with such tremendous push, policy support from the government, and wide adoption from private markets, we are very sure that no tall goals are difficult to be achieved in this space.

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EQ: What Kind of Key changes do you see from the PRE COVID to Covid, and kind of Post Covid or Mild Covid Era? AB: Covid-19 has impacted the world greatly and created many disruptions. Despite challenges, the year 2021 turned out to be one of India's better years for the solar industry. The ongoing projects were impacted; however better preparedness led to fewer disruptions last year especially during second wave. Today we see the demand for more renewable resources and greener solutions on the rise, and solar energy has taken up a more significant role in the energy space in India. The outlook for 2022 is promising, and we believe that with consistent focus and approach, we would be able to achieve the target of 500GW of RE by 2030. With industry-wide collaboration and increased investment in sustainable energy sources, India will steadily progress towards meeting its energy goals.

EQ: What kind of growth do you see coming in the Residential Sector Demand?

AB: The residential rooftop solar market demand in India has seen improved growth esp. in 2021. Post the pandemic the awareness for solar has seeped into the residential sector after creating waves in commercial & industrial realty. In the current year, the rooftop solar industry has witnessed a revival as several on-hold projects have now resumed, and many new projects have joined the pipeline. Further, MNRE’s rooftop solar program is aiming for residential installation of 4 GW by 2022 and the program will be executed at the state level by electricity distribution companies. It is estimated that the target market for domestic solar will hit around 52 million households by 2030 which will be a great feat for India in the residential space. It is also forecasted that the residential PV generation capacity will reach 16.2 GW by 2030 which will provide a bigger opportunity for solar development in this sector. The increased acceptance of residential solar rooftop in line with the government plans has a huge potential in the Indian market to further increase the solar production capacity and demand in the coming years. However, joint efforts to raise awareness around the category is the need of the hour while helping consumers adopt the solar journey as a part of their lifestyle.

EQ: What kind of growth do you see coming in the Residential Sector Demand?

AB: The residential rooftop solar market demand in India has seen improved growth esp. in 2021. Post the pandemic the awareness for solar has seeped into the residential sector after creating waves in commercial & industrial realty. In the current year, the rooftop solar industry has witnessed a revival as several on-hold projects have now resumed, and many new projects have joined the pipeline. Further, MNRE’s rooftop solar program is aiming for residential installation of 4 GW by 2022 and the program will be executed at the state level by electricity distribution companies. It is estimated that the target market for domestic solar will hit around 52 million households by 2030 which will be a great feat for India in the residential space. It is also forecasted that the residential PV generation capacity will reach 16.2 GW by 2030 which will provide a bigger opportunity for solar development in this sector. The increased acceptance of residential solar rooftop in line with the government plans has a huge potential in the Indian market to further increase the solar production capacity and demand in the coming years. However, joint efforts to raise awareness around the category is the need of the hour while helping consumers adopt the solar journey as a part of their lifestyle.

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FEATURED

CONTENDRE IS GLAD TO ANNOUNCE THE UPGRADATION AND EXPANSION OF ITS EXISTING PRODUCTION FACILITY, MAKING IT CAPABLE OF PRODUCING THE HIGH EFFICIENCY MODULE RANGE Contendre Solar: One of the India's most Premium Solar PV Manufacturing and Solutions Company is an ISO certified organisation headquartered in Mumbai and with a State-of-the-Art, Automated Solar Module Manufacturing Facility located at Bhiwandi, Maharashtra, India. Our Avant grade European production line provides us with a high level of production accuracy in turn helping us achieve our goal of providing the highest quality Solar Products and Solutions to the World at a competent price point. Contendre strives to produce Indian, high quality solar products ensuring the highest in class power output and best in-class reliability to our customers. Contendre’s product line is tailored for residential, commercial and utility applications. Every Contendre solar module is certified and surpasses industry standard regulations, proving excellent performance over the long-term. With our equipment already advanced & upgraded to keep up with the fast-evolving technology, we are able to provide our customers with a wide range of products along with a special option for customization.

P Series- Polycrystalline Solar PV Modules (305-335Wp/ DCR)

Contendre’s P Series Modules are one of the most popular among the entire product range with a yield ranging between 305Wp -335Wp. This module can be put to good use for the installations of residential, commercial, industrial, off-grid, and utility-based projects. Contendre’s Poly-crystalline PV module provides a best in class module efficiency of up to 17.32%.

The modules can be used in PV frameworks with a voltage of 1500V DC. The modules can withstand the snow load of up to 5400 Pa and wind load of up to 2400 Pa. Power resilience is +4.99Wp. The solar modules are BIS, IEC and ALMM Approved. The mentioned range of modules are also available in DCR variant.

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M Series- Monocrystalline Solar PV Modules (380-415Wp)

India’s first and only IEC and BIS certified 400Wp+ Module range with trusted full cell technology. Contendre offers Mono Crystalline Perc PV Module with a power range of 380-415Wp. The modules are ideal for all types of installations ranging from residential, commercial, industrial, utility, and off-grid-based projects. Contendre’s Monocrystalline Perc PV modules offers an efficiency of up to 20.16%. The maximum system voltage of this module is 1500 V DC. The withstand capacity of snow load is 5400 Pa. and for wind, the load is 2400 Pa. Power resilience is +4.99Wp. The solar modules are BIS, IEC and ALMM Approved.

G Series- Solar BIPV Glass Products (Customised) This is one of the unique propositions offered by Contendre Solar. With our technologically advanced setup, we are capable in producing and providing this highly customisable product solutions to our customers as per their specific requirements. The range covers all the different type of module technology starting from Glass to Glass, Glass to transparent back sheet, Coloured Glass to bifacial solar PV Modules and covers all the different size, shapes and colours.

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FEATURED X Series- Xtreme Power Series (530-700W)

Contendre is glad to announce the upgradation and expansion of its existing Production facility, making it capable of producing the High Efficiency Module Range and establishing itself among the top international module products available in the market. The Modules will generate ultra-high power with best-in-class module efficiency, touching 21%. The modules will be based on 182mm as well as 210mm large-size silicon wafer and monocrystalline PERC with an in advance provision for TOPCON cell technology. It will also include other unique integrations like high density encapsulation and multi busbar technology allowing higher power generation capacity with an output extension of up to 700wp per Module.

Mini Series- Range of Small Modules (40W-280W)

Contendre also offers its customers with small solar modules for low power applications like lighting and off-grid solar solutions making us the one stop shop for all your solar module needs. The offered range is BIS, IEC Certified.

RENEW BECOMES FIRST INDIAN RENEWABLE ENERGY COMPANY TO REFINANCE DOLLAR-DENOMINATED BONDS Refinancing slashes interest cost by 200 basis points.

Redeems US$ 525 million of outstanding bonds through longer-term financing.

ReNew Energy Global plc (“ReNew” or “the Company”) (Nasdaq: RNW, RNWWW), India’s leading renewable energy company, announced that it has successfully refinanced its 2024 maturity dollar-denominated bonds with amortising project debt from an Indian nonbank financial company, becoming the first Indian renewable energy company to do so.

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eNew issued bonds (“RPVIN 6.67% 24s” or “Bonds”) worth US$ 525 million in 2019, which were set to mature in 2024. By refinancing the dollar-denominated bonds ahead of time, ReNew has shown strong and continued access to domestic debt capital, as well as an ability to proactively manage refinancing risk. This refinancing has cut the bonds’ INR interest cost by 200 basis points, with the interest rate fixed for three years while pushing out the maturity to the end of fiscal year 2027. The rate reduction, rate fixing, and tenor extension have taken place against the backdrop of a rising interest rate environment in the broader markets. This pre-emptive refinancing mitigates near-term refinancing risk for bonds and provides liquidity to bond investors.

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Speaking on the refinancing of debt, ReNew CFO Kedar Upadhye, said, “In today’s business climate, being pro-active and flexible in one’s financing strategy is key, and our team has taken the lead in this by making us the first Indian renewable energy to raise money onshore to retire US dollar bond obligations. As we help spearhead India’s energy transition, we have mitigated refinancing risk without depleting the company’s growth capital and will continue to look at multiple pools of capital to further abate refinancing risk.”

ReNew continues to rapidly expand its capacity, with its gross total portfolio recently surging over 25 % to ~12.8 GW from 10.2 GW at the beginning of 2022.

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ETi-SOL® – an IoT Solar PV Monitoring Solution from EnerMAN

EnerMAN has successfully installed IoT SCADA ETi-SOL® in the countries like South Africa, Nepal, Dubai, Rwanda, Sri Lanka, and Poland apart from India and planning to deploy ETi-SOL® -Remote Monitoring SCADA solution for other countries. Currently our SCADA installation portfolio surpassed a remarkable milestone of 1.3GWp (1300MWp) across the world. ETi-SOL® is an end-to-end solution, made in India product to cater to global market at an affordable price since it uses Hardware, Firmware and Software systems that are developed inhouse. We are proud to say that we are in line with the vision “Vocal for Local to go Global”. Our successful SCADA installations prove that there is always an ever-increasing demand for good product, which is reliable, useful dashboard, easy to use, alerts on breakdowns, and backed by quick customer service support from professional team, who can understand the pain points of customer and solve those problems.

Some of the salient features of our ETi-SOL® Solar PV Monitoring Solutions: The Home page: This is the dashboard that can provide plant and portfolio level KPIs like Generation, PR, Plant Status etc. Multi Plant View Homepage gives a comprehensive view of the health of complete portfolio. This data is very useful for the plant owner as well as O&M Manager to know how their plants are performing on every day. The SCADA transforms generation data into carbon footprint knowledge that owner can take the pride in how he is contributing to healthier planet.

The Plant-Overview page: This dashboard is designed to get complete knowledge about how his plant is operating. Some of the performance metrics are generation, insolation, peak power, total power, PR, CUF, yield etc. Some of the components in this page are customizable to the specific needs of a customer. If a key performance indicator is outside the expected range, there is a provision for the technician to share the incident knowledge to the managers at HQ by adding Bulletin message.

The Map view page: This displays all Inverters and SCBs on a Google Map with exact geo coordinates of the plant and the colour of Inverters and SCBs become red if there is a device fault. Geo-tagging helps locating and fast identification of faulty Inverters/SCB’s in larger power plants reducing down-time and thereby minimizing generation loss.

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Single Line Diagrams (SLD): The SLD diagrams are very important for an electrical engineer or technician to do live monitoring and take quick action if a device turns red due to a fault. This page is custom built for each plant based on how the plant is designed by referring to its schematic diagrams.

The Device dashboards: All major devices like Inverter, SCB, Weather Station, MFM of a plant have their own dashboards and can be accessed from this page. The Inverter dashboard displays hourly, daily, and monthly generation and insolation in a Graph.

The users of SCADA can drill down from Plant->Block-> Inverter Room ->Inverter level to get the generation information. As part of EnerMAN technology efforts to deliver Knowledge not just data, Inverter dashboard has a unique feature called “Dip Reason”. The Dip Reason window automatically displays if there is a dip in energy generation due to Grid Outage and/or Inverter faults. There is also a provision for technician to manually enter any other reason which is not automatically inferred by the SCADA system. The SCB dashboard displays any underperforming strings so that the technician can take actions just by looking at color coded information.

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FEATURED The Alarm Page: Alert module plays pivotal role in any SCADA. The ETi-SOL® works closely with edge device (ETi-LOG) to provide real-time, robust, and accurate alarms and events. It has two levels of Alarms detection logics, the primary logic deployed in the edge device (ETi-LOG) and the secondary logic deployed in the SCADA (ETiSOL®). This extra layer of alert logic ensures that the user will not miss an Alarm.The alert module supports both e-mail as well as SMS notifications to users and has an inbuilt escalation matrix. The O&M manager and the plant owner will receive an email notification if there is an unresolved alert.

The Analytics Page: The user can pick and choose any primary parameters across different devices and analyze trends and performances in a graph or table view. ETI-SOL® analytics tab enables user to choose the parameters to be compared across the plants in different geographic locations in couple of clicks. In addition to primary data, the user can also analyze and download computed KPIs like PR, Yield, Insolation, and Daily Generation Reports (DGR). We have released much awaited feature to our customers "INVERTER RANKING", an advanced ML based analytics module which throws actionable insights about top performing and least performing Inverters of Solar PV plant for any selected period. Another feature we are offering is DOWNTIME LOSS ANALYSIS, which analyses grid/ equipment downtime and provide meaningful loss analysis reports to improve plant performance at a click of button.

ETi-SOL® Edge: For the customers who do not want to pay annual cloud server charges to view their plant data, EnerMAN has introduced ETi-SOL® Edge which is a local monitoring solution. One time investment to the system which does not require internet & cloud storage.

The Report page: The user can download pre-defined daily, monthly, and yearly reports by click of a button. The user can configure his report module & save it as a template after which with few clicks, one can download Plant level, Block level or Device level reports.

ETi-SOL® supports Customizable ‘Daily Generation Report in your Inbox’ feature relieving the load of O&M engineer to download & email DGRs.

ETi-SOL® Android/iOS App: Introducing the new mobile app version of our SCADA. Now the home page in the app is similar to web version i.e. all the plants in one with with its pirority status list. The much awaited in-app alert notification feature is now up and going.

Both, Android and iOS are now available.

Apart from Remote monitoring solution, we have developed a series of products to cater to various customer solar PV plant requirements.

ETi-SLDC: A software product, which can be installed in local PCs/ Servers to collect data from the Solar PV plant’s equipment and can send the required data to SLDC in a interval of few seconds as per SLDC guidelines.

PV plants to achieve Utility grid requirements at POI (Point of interconnection). PPC is a combination of Software Logic and Hardware which continuously monitor the healthiness of grid and automatically acts in case of any abnormality. EnerMAN’s Power Plant Controller (ETi PPC) is a control system that can manage active power, reactive ETi-ZES (Zero Export System): We have developed another software power, and power factor from Solar Inverter (On Grid/Off grid Solar product, ETi-ZES, which will ensure Zero Export from Solar PV plants Plant, Solar Hybrid Plants). / Rooftops to electricity Grid, as per DISCOM policy guidelines, to avoid penalty. This product collects the data from Solar PV plants' end- ETi-LMS: Load Management System: An IoT Solution for DGequipment and controls/limits the out-power of Solar Inverters based on Sync which is a universal Solution for all Inverter brands (Supports Heterogenous Make) Controls Active Power of Inverter’s.

Power load / consumption at factory/manufacturing unit.

ETi-PPC (Power plant controller): Power plant controller is a reli- ETi-CAST: Energy Generation & Forecasting solution which is a able and flexible solution that can control different parameters present cloud-based forecasting tool for solar power plants. in Solar

Author ASHOK DM

CEO & Managing Director EnerMAN Technologies Private Limited

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FEATURED CDPQ and CLP Strengthen Strategic Partnership in Apraava Energy • Global investment group CDPQ to increase its strategic participation in Apraava Energy to 50%, making the company a 50:50 joint venture between CDPQ and CLP.

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• CLP welcomes CDPQ’s increased equity stake as Apraava Energy is positioned to play a key role in the decarbonisation of India’s economy.

DPQ, a global investment group, and CLP Group (CLP), one of the largest investor-owned power businesses in Asia, agreed the sale by CLP of a 10% stake in Apraava Energy to CDPQ, bringing their respective stakes in the company to 50%. This transaction reinforces CDPQ’s and CLP’s joint commitment to support the acceleration of the transition to a greener economy in India. CDPQ first became

Richard Lancaster, Chief Executive Officer at CLP Holdings, said, “This transaction underlines the success of our partnership with CDPQ that has been built since 2018, and reflects the strategic alignment and commitment shared by us.

We are aligned in seeking investment opportunities for zero-carbon infrastructure projects to support India’s energy transition, and strongly believe this change creates a stronger platform for capturing these opportunities.”

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a strategic shareholder in Apraava Energy in 2018 through acquiring a stake of 40%. Since then, Apraava Energy has successfully undertaken a number of energy transition related investments. Building on this, Apraava Energy will have a sharper and dedicated focus in the investment and development of clean energy and power transmission projects. Following this transaction, CDPQ will also have increased governance rights, equal to those of CLP, with respect to Apraava Energy.

Emmanuel Jaclot, Executive VicePresident and Head of Infrastructure at CDPQ, said, “Ever since our investment in Apraava Energy nearly four years ago, CDPQ has strived, alongside CLP, to transform Apraava into a true sustainability leader equipped with a clear plan to transition to renewable energy. We are delighted to increase our stake in the company, helping drive this agenda forward while supporting India’s ambition of providing clean and sustainable energy to all.”

Rajiv Mishra, Managing Director at Apraava Energy, said, “We are grateful to our shareholders, CLP Group and CDPQ for their unwavering support and trust in Apraava Energy.

Together with them, Apraava Energy will support India’s ambitions of providing clean and reliable energy to all in the development of a greener economy. We will continue to focus on building a sustainable power company that will invest only in low-carbon growth areas, including renewable generation, transmission, distribution, as well as other customer-focused energy businesses. As we move forward, all of our decisions and efforts will epitomise energy in action, thereby creating value for all our stakeholders.”

The total consideration for the transaction is the US$ equivalent of INR 6.6 billion (approximately HK$653 million or US$83 million at the current exchange rate conversion). Completion of the transaction is subject to the fulfilment of various conditions precedent including regulatory approvals.

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FEATURED

Growatt ranked first globally for residential inverter shipments two years in a row According to the estimates of IHS Markit (now part of S&P Global), Growatt was ranked the No.1 residential inverter supplier globally in 2021, consolidating its market-leading position for a second consecutive year. The company owes the achievement to its vast variety of product portfolios of high quality and reliability as well as its extensive global network and top-notch user services.

At Growatt, we provide intelligent and reliable PV solutions for residential system owners to reduce their electricity bills and reduce their carbon footprint. More than 2.8 million families globally are now enjoying sustainable energy through our products and solutions, commented Lisa Zhang, the company’s vice president of marketing. Growatt’s residential offerings, in compliance with grid regulations and requirements of various markets, include single-phase inverters with power capacity ranging from 750W to 11.4kW and threephase inverters from 3kW to 15kW. In particular, the company’s XH Series battery-ready inverters have become increasingly popular among households who look to upgrade rooftop solar plants to energy storage systems in the future.

“Our residential inverter comes in a sleek and compact design, and it is easy to install and commission. In addition, it’s got enhanced safety features including AFCI function, giving customers peace of mind,” Zhang added. To date, Growatt inverters have been installed in over 150 countries and regions, and approximately 1.4 million end users have connected the PV systems to the company’s cloud platform – the online smart service (OSS) system. “Our OSS system enables installers, integrators and distributors to manage and maintain solar plants remotely and intelligently for improved service efficiency,” Zhang explained.

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Moreover, the company has established 34 representative offices worldwide to deliver more efficient and convenient services. “At Growatt, our team works relentlessly to enable everyone to benefit from sustainable energy and transition to a greener lifestyle. And we believe together with our partners around the world, we can make a difference,” Zhang concluded.

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JA SOLAR RELEASES N-TYPE PV MODULE DEEPBLUE 4.0 X

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ased on the 182 wafer, which boasts the most mature supply chain and industrywide recognition, the DeepBlue 4.0 X series includes three module types adaptable to any scenario: 54-cell module for residential PV systems, 72-cell and 78-cell for commercial and utility-scale PV projects.

DeepBlue 4.0 X has already passed the IEC 61215 and IEC 61730 tests and obtained the TÜV SÜD certificate, as well as passed the salt mist, ammonia, sand and dust testing, proving its suitability across various applications and environments. In addition to the advantages carried over from DeepBlue 3.0 modules, DeepBlue 4.0 X integrates the latest technologies from JA Solar, including the Bycium+ cell, wherein mass production efficiency can reach more than 24.8% owing to its high-quality substrate and structure. Also, DeepBlue 4.0 X is equipped with the patented high-density module encapsulation technology GFI (Gapless flexible interconnection), where the design of the round ribbon with buffer treatment and optimized encapsulation material deals with mechanical stress at cell interconnections and thus eliminating the risk of micro-cracking. Together, these bring higher reliability and higher energy yield to DeepBlue 4.0 X, with maximum power reaching 625W and efficiency of up to 22.4%.

JA Solar celebrates its 2022 new product launch event on May 18, with the release of its first n-type PV module DeepBlue 4.0 X. This innovative new product offering marks the company’s first entry into the n-type PV product market.

According to Kun Tang, Director of the Product Technology Department at JA Solar, JA Solar has been working on the n-type technology for years, and after continuous investment in R&D and experimentation, is finally ready for mass production. To verify the power generation performance of the product, JA Solar and TÜV NORD launched a one-year (February 2021-February 2022) energy yield test at China Photovoltaic Test Center, Yinchuan base (Northwest China).

The results show that the energy yield of the n-type module based on Bycium+ cells is 3.9% higher than that of p-PERC modules. According to JA Solar PV system simulation data, compared with p-type modules, BOS cost reduction of DeepBlue 4.0 X tops out at 2.1%, and LCOE at 4.6%, further increasing the IRR and bringing more value to the customer.

Mr. Xinwei Niu, Member of the Board and Senior Vice President of JA Solar, said, “The development of lowcarbon and green solutions has become a key global mission. As one of the most flexible and cost-effective renewable energy, PV power has become an important force in promoting carbon neutrality. From p-type to n-type, from DeepBlue 3.0 to DeepBlue 4.0 X, JA Solar has always adhered to the product design concept of ‘customer oriented’. We are always trying to improve the power generation performance of PV modules in order to create more value for customers and promote the application of PV power at a global scale to play a greater role in the process of global carbon neutrality.”

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FEATURED ADANI SOLAR IS TOP PERFORMER FOR FIFTH YEAR IN A ROW Rated as leader in PV module Product Qualification Program (PQP) by PVEL • PV (Photo voltaic) Module PQP at PVEL is the most comprehensive program for stringent testing of PV Modules • Adani Solar is the largest GW-scale, Vertically Integrated Cell & Module manufacturer in India • Adani Solar is the only Indian Solar Manufacturer that has been rated as a Top Performer at PVEL’s PQP Program for five consecutive years (2022, 2021, 2020. 2019 & 2018)

Adani Solar is the top performer in PVEL’s (PV Evolution Labs LLP) Product Qualification Program (PQP), according to its 8th annual PV module reliability scorecard. With this recognition, Adani Solar emerges as the only Indian solar manufacturing company to win this distinction for five consecutive years (from 2018 to 2022).PV Module PQP at PVEL is the most comprehensive program for stringent testing of PV (photo voltaic) Modules on Reliability & Quality parameters, with data & results publicly available. It is noteworthy that Adani Solar is the only Indian Solar Manufacturer with an in-house cell and module capacity with a Top Performer award under this program.

Mr. Rahul Bhutiani, Head – Sales & Marketing of Adani Solar said, “PVEL’s PV Module Reliability Scorecard is an invaluable tool that banks, developers, and engineers use to ensure that projects are built with reliable and durable products. Five wins in a row for Adani Solar is a testament to our manufacturing excellence, our stringent test procedures and reflects our commitment to producing Solar PV Cells & Modules having the highest quality, high efficiency, highest reliability & bankability.”

Tristan Erion-Lorico, VP of Sales and Marketing at PVEL commented, “Congratulations to Adani Solar team for achieving Top Performer recognition in the PV Module Reliability Scorecard for the fifth consecutive year. We are pleased to see Adani Solar appear in our report once again and we hope to see the company’s continued growth in the near future.”

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FEATURED CLEANTECH SOLAR COMMISSIONS TWO ROOFTOP SOLAR PV PROJECTS

WITH SYSTEM SIZES OF 1 MW AND 500 KW IN THAILAND Cleantech Solar, a leading provider of renewable energy solutions to corporations in Southeast Asia and India, has powered up two rooftop solar PV systems in Thailand – a 1 MW rooftop solar PV project in Pathumthani province for a major consumer electronics multinational, and a 500-kW solar PV system at the manufacturing facility of another multinational plastic products manufacturer for the automotive industry in Rayong. Both projects have been delivered under long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs).

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he solar projects have been completely financed, designed and installed by Cleantech Solar, and will be operated and maintained by Cleantech Solar during the term of the PPA. The projects are expected to have a combined generation of over 34.7 GWh of clean electricity during their lifetime, which is equivalent to offsetting over 20 kilotonnes of CO2 emissions, thereby enabling the offtakers to realise their goal of making the switch to green energy and powering operations sustainably. Cleantech Solar’s solar PV system in Rayong, Thailand

Raju Shukla, Founder and CEO of Cleantech Solar, said: “It is a matter of immense happiness for Cleantech Solar to partner with some of the world’s leading corporates as they embrace green and renewable solar power to run their operations. The commissioning of these two projects in Thailand underscores the commitment of top corporates towards sustainable business practices.

Our highquality solar PV solution will help these clients derive the benefits of clean energy by way of significantly reduced emissions and electricity costs, and will provide security of energy supply, whilst contributing to Thailand’s clean energy transition.”

RENESOLA POWER ANNOUNCES AWARD OF 20-YEAR RENEWABLE ENERGY CREDIT CONTRACTS FOR TWO SOLAR PROJECTS IN NEW YORK AND ILLINOIS ReneSola Ltd (“ReneSola Power” or the “Company”) (www.renesolapower.com) (NYSE: SOL), a leading fully integrated solar project developer, announced that it was awarded 20-year Index Renewable Energy Credit (REC) contracts for two solar projects.

20 MW solar and 2 MW battery storage project in Massena, New York: On June 2, 2022, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (“NYSERDA”) selected ReneSola Power’s 22 MW “Roosevelt Solar” project in Massena, New York to be one of 22 projects as part of the State’s largest land-based renewable energy projects in history. ReneSola Power was awarded a 20-year index REC contract as part of the state’s renewable program in an effort to reach New York’s goals to exceed 70% renewables by 2030 and zero emissions by 2040 as required by Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act[1]. 20 MW solar project in Wilmington, Illinois: On May 12, 2022, the Illinois Commerce Commission (“ICC”) awarded a 20-year index REC contract to ReneSola Power’s 20 MW utility-scale solar project in Wilmington, Illinois as part of the state commitment to double investment in renewable energy towards its goal of 40% renewable energy by 2030 and 50% by 2040. The new REC program in Illinois and the existing program in New York are laying the groundwork for what the future of renewable energy could look like across the United States. They are great examples of how states can meet their aggressive Renewable Portfolio Standard targets, and at the same time create jobs and economic benefits to local communities.

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Mr. Yumin Liu, Chief Executive Officer of ReneSola Power, commented, “We are very excited and honored that our two utility-scale solar projects in New York and Illinois were awarded REC contracts. The solar industry continues to benefit from the accelerating green energy transition to fight climate change.

Our projects are in line with our environmental, social and governance practices, that is, not only will it contribute to state-level renewable energy targets but it will also make an impact to the local communities by creating jobs.”

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FEATURED

AZURE POWER TIES UP WITH INDIA’S PREMIER

ENERGIES GROUP FOR SOLAR CELLS AND MODULES Azure Power Global Limited (NYSE: AZRE) (“Azure” or “the Company”), a leading independent sustainable energy solutions provider and renewable power producer in India, announced that it has executed a Module Supply Agreement (“MSA”) with Premier Energies Group (“Premier Group”), one of India’s leading manufacturers of solar PV cells and modules, for supply of modules up to 600 MW p.a. for next four years.

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he Company also entered into an agreement to invest INR 1,000 million (~US$ 12.9 million) in the Premier Group, of which an investment of INR 455 million (~US$ 5.9 million) has been made for the subscription of equity shares & compulsorily convertible debentures issued by Premier Energies Investment Private Limited (“PEIPL”), towards subscription of 26% shareholding in PEIPL. The balance of INR 545 million (~US$ 7 million) will be made in the form of subscription to optionally convertible debentures issued by Premier Energy Limited (“PEL”). PEIPL is setting up a 1 GW cell and module manufacturing facility in India as part of its expansion plans.

Sri Kalvakuntla Taraka Rama Rao, HonourableMinister for Municipal Administration & Urban Development, Industries & Commerce, and Information Technology. Government of Telangana stated that the state government has allotted additional 20 acres of land in electronic city for this expansion plan under Telangana Mega Projects.

Commenting on the announcement, the minister said, “Government of Telangana appreciates the repeat investment from Premier Energies and Azure Power. We are proud to host their existing state of the art facility in E-City, Telangana and with the new investments, we are con dent that they are going to grow bigger, and we assure our complete support to all our entrepreneurs to reach great heights.”

Speaking on this occasion, Mr. Alan Rosling, Chairman, Azure Power said, “Having a long-term supply visibility is an important factor towards de-risking our business. Premier is operating one of the most advanced state-of-the-art solar cell and module line in the country, and we are pleased to partner with Premier. This partnership is a prudent step towards securing long term sustainable value for our stakeholders and towards actualization of India’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.” On this announcement, Mr. Surender Pal Singh, Chairman, Premier Energies said, “We, at Premier are honored to partner with Azure Power in the solar manufacturing space in India. Premier has a legacy of over 27 years in solar manufacturing and this partnership further strengthens Premier’s leadership position in India.”

Mr. Chiranjeev Saluja, Managing Director, Premier Energies said, “This is the rst-ofits-kind strategic partnership between an Independent Power Producer and a solar manufacturing company in India. This marks a major milestone in Government of India’s goal of Make in India.”

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LONGI TO SUPPLY SOLAR PANELS TO MASDAR’S

230 MW GARADAGH SOLAR PLANT IN AZERBAIJAN LONGi and Masdar jointly held a signing ceremony on June 14th in Masdar City, Abu Dhabi, for the supply of solar photovoltaic (PV) modules via Masdar’s wholly owned affiliate Source Trading Company for the 230 megawatt (MW) Garadagh Solar Plant, the first utility-scale solar plant in Azerbaijan.

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he Project is located nine kilometers northwest of the Alat settlement and will help generate half a billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. The total production would be enough to meet the needs of more than 110,000 houses, reduce emissions by more than 200,000 tons a year and create valuable jobs. The signing ceremony was attended by Jia Chao, President of MEA&CA Region, Global Sales and Marketing Center of LONGi, Gonzalo Bonelo, Middle East Sales Director and Baggio Teng, Head of New business team.

Jia Chao, President of MEA&CA Region, Global Sales and Marketing Center of LONGi, said: “LONGi is looking forward to working with Masdar not only in supporting Azerbaijan on its ambitious clean energy journey but also in exploring more opportunities to further strengthen the cooperation with Masdar in the Middle East and other geographies”.

JINKOSOLAR ANNOUNCES ITS FIRST OVERSEAS “RE100

FACTORY” COMPLETELY POWERED BY RENEWABLES JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd. (“JinkoSolar” or the “Company”) (NYSE: JKS), one of the largest and most innovative solar module manufacturers in the world, announced that its Malaysia factory has become its first overseas “RE100 factory” fully powered by renewables. 100% of the electricity consumed in production and operation activities supporting roughly 7GW vertically integrated solar cell-module capacity is supplied by green electricity.

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here are two main methods of using clean electricity to ensure the factory is completely powered by renewable sources, i.e., external procurement and in-house solar rooftop installation.

External procurement is achieved through utility-scale power purchase agreements (PPAs) with local grid or hyperscale operators buying the output of generators of hydro and solar power. The annual purchase of approximately 0.44 billion kWh is making the Malaysia factory one of the largest solar corporate buyers of renewable energy in Southeast Asia. Rooftop solar power is expected to be installed on its roofs by the end of 2022. At full production capacity, the annual power consumption of this factory is expected to be about 335 million kWh and its average annual carbon dioxide emissions are expected to be reduced by about 214,200 tons.

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“This is another important milestone on Jinkosolar’s journey to fully power all its operations with clean power. It also provides a timely reminder of the critical role a solar pioneer company like Jinkosolar plays in leading a societywide transition to renewable energy,” said Dany Qian, VP of Jinkosolar, “We will always make our biggest impact on the environment by providing customers with technology that enables them to reduce their carbon footprint.

Our clean power pursuit reflects the shared values of our customers, partners and investors.”

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FEATURED

SUNGROW SETS TO GROW UTILITY-SCALE CLEAN POWER WITH A 320 MW PROJECT IN DENMARK Sungrow will work with engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) company BeGreen on their first partnership in Denmark. The project is set to install 320 MW for a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) pipeline, all integrated with Sungrow’s industry-leading inverters.

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openhagen, Denmark, June 15, 2022 / PRNewswire/ — Sungrow, the global leading inverter solution supplier for renewables, is supporting EPC BeGreen on a new project pipeline of utility-scale solar PPA installations in the country. The news comes as Sungrow makes moves to expand into the Nordic countries and is the first partnership of its type between the two companies. The project, named Brilliant, will deploy mainly utility-scale solar of 320 MWp, (258 megavolt amperes).

The project is set for delivery as early as July this year, with grid connection scheduled for the final quarter of 2022. BeGreen has chosen to integrate Sungrow’s multi-MPPT SG250HX string inverter into their projects. The SG250HX features easy installation, smart operations and maintenance as well as 12 MPPTs with maximum yield of 99% efficiency. Sungrow’s award-winning portfolio of inverters are designed for seamless integration whilst prioritising affordability and performance. An additional advantage of the SG250HX for this region is the innovative C5 coating and cooling concept with heat exchanger, which gives the system added protection and durability on sites prone to strong winds and coastal areas with salt air which is corrosive. Denmark could reach the milestone of one gigawatt of installed solar capacity this year. The country is a promising market for continued growth of the solar sector, as the world strives to phase out fossil fuels in light of the latest IPCC report findings which call for the continued scaling up of clean energy assets. BeGreen is an EPC focused on realising their vision of building solar parks in Denmark completely without public subsidies. The company achieved this for the first time in 2019.

Since then, more parks have been added, with the ambition to produce as many as 4,000 gigawatt hours of clean power every year before the end of 2025. BeGreen’s projects to date have saved 240,000 tonnes CO2e with a view to save a total of 3,400,000 tonnes CO2e by the close of 2025. Sungrow has been granted approval to commence work in the country from the Danish transmission system operator Energinet. Northern Europe represents a key market for Sungrow which has installed over 224 gigawatts of solar worldwide in its 25 years of operation.

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Director for the CEE and Nordics Region at Sungrow, Moritz Rolf, said: “We are proud to support BeGreen in the development of their utility-scale solar deployment pipeline. This is the first project pipeline of this scale for Sungrow in Denmark, a country with vast potential for further solar power generation, which offers energy security and independence and reduces carbon emissions in this vital decade for the clean energy transition. Sungrow is committed to providing clean power for all and we look forward to progressing with this project stream.”

Anders Dolmer, Leading Partner at BeGreen Denmark said: “As a company, we are passionate about the green transition. We want to make a difference in cooperation with municipalities, farmers, neighbours and interest groups, so that together we can solve the climate challenge in a sustainable and acceptable way for the benefit of future generations.

We want to lead the Danish way.”

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INDIA NTPC TO BEGIN COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS OF 15 MW SOLAR

CAPACITY AT KAWAS SOLAR PROJECT FROM MIDNIGHT

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The country’s largest power generation company announced the start of commercial operations of the Kawas Solar Project in the Surat district of Gujarat. tate-owned NTPC will begin commercial operations of its 15 MW solar capacity at Kawas Solar Project in Gujarat.

The capacity is part of the 56 MW Kawas Solar Project located in Kawas near Surat district of the state, NTPC said in a regulatory filing. ”…second part capacity of 15 MW out of 56 MW Kawas Solar PV Project at Kawas is declared on commercial operation with effect from 00:00 hours of 15.06.2022,” the company said.

With this, the standalone installed and commercial capacity of NTPC will become 54,666.68 MW, while group installed and commercial capacity of NTPC will become 69,031.68 MW. NTPC, under the ministry of power, is country’s largest power generation company.

Source: PTI

Source: PTI

RECORD INCREASE IN ELECTRICITY DEMAND IN THE COUNTRY THIS YEAR, SUPPLY REACHED 23 TO 23.5 HOURS: ENERGY MINISTER RK SINGH Electricity demand in the country has increased by a record 40,000 to 45,000 MW per day this year due to scorching heat in northern India, expanding economy and access to electricity connections to millions of underprivileged households. Union Power Minister RK Singh gave this information.

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corching heat in north india, Economy Electricity in the country due to expansion of (Electricity) This year’s demand has increased by a record 40,000 to 45,000 MW per day. Union Power Minister RK Singh (Power Minister RK Singh) gave this information. Singh said that there has been tremendous improvement in power generation capacity, integration of the country into one transmission grid and the Narendra Modi government.

(Modi Government) Due to the strengthening of the distribution system during the eight years of the year, today the government is able to supply 23 to 23.5 hours of electricity. India’s electricity demand reached an all-time high of 2,10,792 MW on June 9. The consumption of electricity on that day was 471.2 crore units. Singh said that the power plants are operating at their full capacity so that this demand can be met. The government has placed coal import orders to augment the domestic supply. The minister said that the entire power sector has changed in the last eight years. Before 2014, there was power shortage in the country and power cuts were common.

BIG IMPROVEMENT IN POWER SUPPLY IN RURAL AREAS Referring to an NGO survey, Singh said that at the national level, electricity was available in rural areas for 12.5 hours. Today

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this figure has reached 22.5 hours. He claimed that India was once a power deficient nation. The power shortage was 17 to 20 percent. Today India has become a power surplus country.

Giving details, the minister said that in eight years, 1,69,000 MW power capacity has been added. He said that our total power capacity has reached 4,00,000 MW (400 GW). At the same time, the maximum power demand is only 215 GW. Singh said that after laying 1.66 lakh circuit kilometers of transmission lines, today the entire country has been connected to a single grid. The distribution system has been improved by replacing the old lines. Singh further said that today India is the world’s largest single-frequency electricity grid. He said that earlier we could transfer only 37,000 MW of electricity from one corner of the country to another. Today we are in a position to transfer 120,000 MW of power. Singh said that the result of this is that today the availability of electricity has increased. Average availability of electricity has reached 23 hours in rural areas and 23.5 hours in urban areas. Singh claimed that today electricity has reached thousands of villages which were deprived of this facility for 70 years. Electricity connection has been provided to 2.86 crore underprivileged houses. This is more than the combined population of Germany and France. The minister also informed that the power stations have been asked to use 10 percent imported coal in power generation.

Source: PTI

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INDIA

KMRL TO SET UP A SOLAR PLANT IN KASARAGOD

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In a major step towards the 100% self-sufficiency in energy needs, the Kochi Metro is planning a solar power plant in Kasaragod. ochi Metro was the first metro service in the country which used solar power to meet a quarter of its power requirement at the time of the commissioning of the first phase of the project.After implementing various solar power initiatives, the Metro now meets half of its electricity demands through solar power. KMRL managing director Loknath Behera said that the solar plant would be set up in a 45 acre site in Kasaragod, where a private entity had planned a similar project earlier and later it was abandoned. KMRL had recently commissioned 1.8MW solar power plant at its Muttom yard thus enabling the company to meet 51% of its energy requirement through its own solar power plant. The plant at Muttom was part of the third phase of KMRL’s solar project aiming to tap 5.445MW of power. The project is unique because it taps the potential of open sky space of the metro tracks. By commissioning the Muttom plant, KMRL has added 9% neutrality to its existing 42%

energy neutrality achievement and thus reached 51 % energy neutrality. Under the first phase, solar panels that could generate 2.7MW were installed on the rooftops of the Metro stations and depot buildings in 2018. With a generation of 37 lakhs units per annum, almost 18% to the total energy requirement was met then. In phase two, ground-mounted solar panels with a capacity of 2.7MW was commissioned in the KMRL depot in 2019. The average generation of power was about 44 lakh units per annum, which took the energy neutrality up to 30%.

Once the 3rd phase project is completed, KMRL will have a total solar power generation capacity of 10.5MWp which will generate about 147.49 lakh units annually, which constitutes about 55% of the total energy consumption of KMRL. “The green energy initiative contributes to improvement of the environmental conditions by reducing CO2 emission. KMRL is exploring the possibility of becoming a 100% energy neutral organization. The upcoming plant at Kasaragod would be a step towards the goal,” Behera said.

Source: PTI

HIMACHAL PRADESH INVITES BIDS TO

RUN 27 HYDROPOWER PROJECTS The Himachal Pradesh government will allot 27 hydroelectricity projects of 722.4-megawatt combined tentative power generation capacity in Chamba, Kangra, Lahaul-Spiti, Kullu, Shimla and Kinnaur districts. It has invited bids from the private sector for running these projects on ‘build, own, operate, and transfer (BOOT)’ basis.

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he developers will be required to pay the government a royalty in the form of free power from the projects. Of the 27 projects, 9 are in Chamba, 7 in Kinnaur, 5 in Kullu, 2 on the border of Chamba and Kangra, and one each in Kangra, Lahaul-Spiti, and Shimla, besides on border of Lahaul-Spiti and Chamba. Detailed reports for 7 projects are ready, while the preliminary feasibility reports (PFRs) for the rest are available. The developers will be free to dispose of the remaining power after meeting the royalty commitments and additional free power at 1% of the deliverable energy on account of local area development fund (LADF), Source: PTI

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COUNTRY HAS CONSTRAINTS IN AVAILABILITY OF DOMESTIC COAL: GOVT

The inter-ministerial panel met recently to consider the requests for coal linkages to central/ state sector power plants and to review the status of existing coal linkages

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The country is facing constraints in the domestic coal availability and the rest of the dry fuel demand needs to be met with imports, according to the coal ministry. The ministry has also emphasised that coal block holders — both captive and commercial — have a major role to play in mitigating the coal shortfall situation. Domestic coal production is about 800 million tonnes, according to the coal additional secretary, who is also the chairperson of an inter-ministerial panel on coal linkages for the power sector. The inter-ministerial panel met recently to consider the requests for coal linkages to central/state sector power plants and to review the status of existing coal linkages. The additional coal secretary stated that “there are constraints in domestic coal availability and the domestic coal production is roughly about 800 MT”. “Therefore, the rest of the coal demand of the country has to be met through imports from other countries”, according to the minutes of the meeting on fuel linkages. Coal Secretary A K Jain had earlier attributed the low coal stocks at power plants to several factors such as heightened power demand due to the boom in the economy post-COVID-19, the early arrival of summer, a rise in the price of gas and imported coal and a sharp fall in electricity generation by coastal thermal power plants. He had added that a slew of measures is already underway to enhance the total power supply in the country. The gas-based power generation which has fallen drastically in the country has aggravated the crisis.

Coastal thermal power plants are now generating around half of their capacity because of the sharp rise in the prices of imported coal. This has resulted in a gap between the demand and supply of electricity. The secretary further said that states located in the South and West have been dependent on imported coal. And when domestic coal is dispatched through wagons/ rakes to the domestic coal-based plants in these states to make up for the loss in imported coal generation, the turnaround time of rakes is more than 10 days, which creates rake availability issues for other plants.

Source: PTI

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INDIA

BATTERY-SWAPPING: INDUSTRY WANTS INCLUSION

OF HIGHER-RANGE VEHICLES IN POLICY Chennai: Battery swapping for electric vehicles (EVs) should focus on higherrange vehicles, as lower availability of docks initially would force users to make detours for a swap, industrialists said.

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his came in response to a draft policy by government think tank Niti Aayog. They, however, agreed that swapping was a welcome move to jump-start the adoption of EVs despite fundamental questions about its viability. IT industry body Nasscom, in its response to Niti Aayogs Draft Battery Swapping Policy, has recommended that batteries with a higher range, at about 80-100 kilometres a swap, should be encouraged to meet demand to go longer distances without having to take detours to find a battery swap dock. Nasscom, which has among its members EV brands such as Ather Energy, has also pointed out that EV riders are likely to rush to a swap dock due to range anxiety, meaning users could initiate swap before the battery runs out.

The budget had outlined a battery swapping policy for EVs. The Niti Aayog draft policy drives battery swapping as an alternative to charging to reduce downtime and focuses on light EVs such as two-wheelers and e-rickshaws/e-carts.

Source: PTI

IREDA KEEN TO PROMOTE RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECTS IN ODISHA

Following the opening of its branch office in Odisha, IREDA has sanctioned loans of Rs 670 crore and disbursed Rs 348 crore, it said.The state chief secretary and IREDAs CMD had a positive discussion about the numerous efforts made by IREDA in the last two years and future opportunities in Odisha, the statement said, adding that opportunities for promoting the usage of Renewable Energy RE in the state were highlighted throughout the conversation.

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ccording to the statement, the chief secretary praised IREDAs efforts in Odisha and assured the state governments complete support for RE development. The Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency said it is keen to promote more green energy projects in Odisha and has already sanctioned loans worth Rs 670 crore within one year of opening its branch in the state. The Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA), a public sector non-banking financial institution, has been engaged in promoting, developing and extending financial assistance for projects related to new and renewable sources of energy. Pradip Kumar Das, Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of IREDA, met Odisha chief secretary Suresh Chandra Mahapatra, a company statement said. During the meeting Das said that the IREDA is keen to promote more renewable energy projects in Odisha, realising the immense green energy potential in the state. In August 2021, the IREDA opened a branch office in Bhubaneswar, following which

the company sanctioned five hydro power projects with total capacity of 80.5 MW and a 1.5-MW energy access project. Following the opening of its branch office in Odisha, IREDA has sanctioned loans of Rs 670 crore and disbursed Rs 348 crore, it said. The state chief secretary and IREDA’s CMD had a positive discussion about the numerous efforts made by IREDA in the last two years and future opportunities in Odisha, the statement said, adding that opportunities for promoting the usage of Renewable Energy (RE) in the state were highlighted throughout the conversation. According to the statement, the chief secretary praised IREDA’s efforts in Odisha and assured the state government’s complete support for RE development. Das said that apart from hydro and access to energy, several projects for Odisha related to biomass and manufacturing are also under consideration. He informed the chief secretary about the company’s recent initiatives, achievements and future plans for the RE sector’s expansion in line with the central government’s target to have a 50 per cent share of total energy use from nonfossil fuels by 2030. The IREDA should also encourage solar rooftop, solar heating and solar lighting systems for household use in Odisha, the chief secretary was quoted as having said in the statement.

Source: PTI

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MIX OF SOLAR AND BIOGAS TO PRODUCE GREEN HYDROGEN AT VARANASI’S RAMNAGAR DAIRY Green hydrogen is a buzzword today with not just the government but even private entrepreneurs investing in R&D to make it cheaper. Green hydrogen, part of the renewable energy basket, is the proverbial new kid on the block that can take a place of pride sooner than expected.

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However, right now, the main worry for the government planners is its cost to make it commercially viable. The International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) are working on an innovative concept, which, as and when materialises, will not just bring down the cost of production of green hydrogen but also helps utilise the tonnes of daily cow dung generated by a dairy near Varanasi — Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s constituency — on a daily basis. It is a dairy that is now being run by the NDDB, an agency under the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, part of the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. Output expected from the biogas plant are electrical energy, which will also help generate thermal energy and will be used for cooling the boilers of the milk plant, and the bio-fertiliser, which will be sold back to the farmers at a designated rate. “The economics worked out showed that use of a combination of thermal and electrical energy from the biogas led to a savings of Rs 0.40 per litre. Add to it, the income generated by selling the bio-fertilizer. Over and above that, the NDDB also plans to encash the carbon credits to gain additional revenue,” said Atul Chaturvedi, Secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying. Now, the officials are thinking of a hybrid model that makes use of solar energy during the day and biogas during the night to produce green hydrogen, a first of its kind model.

Earlier this week, the department had organised a meeting to discuss opportunities, operational challenges and solutions to set the stage for mass production of green hydrogen from biogas produced from cow dung at an affordable price.

Apart from the officials from the ISA and NDDB, the meeting

“During the meeting, Dr Ajay Mathur, director general of ISA, gave an extensive presentation on solutions to generate green hydrogen,” said a top official.

was attended by representatives of ministries of petroleum, fertiliser, renewable energy. However, it is just at the planning stage and the actual production stage is far away but the government officials are optimistic. MNRE will fund the project under its scheme of funding project for green hydrogen. It is now up to the ISA and NDDB to work out details with ISA taking the lead. “If this model works out fine, it will not just be a first-of-its kind model across the world but will create a huge potential for countries like us,” Chaturvedi added.

Source: IANS

ROOFTOP SOLAR PROGRAMME APPROVED IN J&K UNDER SOLAR CITY MISSION The Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Council (AC), which met under the chairmanship of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, approved the installation of 200 MW of grid-tied rooftop solar power plants under the ‘Solar City Mission’ in Jammu, officials said.

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The decision has been made to implement the Government of India’s Grid-connected Rooftop Solar Scheme Phase-II for the residential sector in Jammu and Kashmir to ensure that the power needs of the city are fully met from solar energy. Under the project, 200 MW grid-tied rooftop solar power plants will be installed on 50,000 residential buildings in Jammu by the J&K Energy Development Agency (JAKEDA) under its ‘Solar City Mission’ at an estimated cost of Rs 1,040 crore. The project will be completed by March 2024 and will have a shelflife of 25 years. The rooftop solar programme will provide subsidised installation of solar power panels on residential houses at the cost of Rs 58,739, Rs 53,995, Rs 52,594, and Rs 51,309 for Category-A (Up to 1 kW), Category-B (1 kW to 2 kW), Category-C (2kW up to 3 kW), and Category-D (3 kW up to 10 kW), respectively. The central sector scheme provides a central subsidy component of 40 per cent of the project cost and a state

subsidy component of 25 per cent of the project cost for the installation of solar power panels below 3 kW capacity, beyond which the central subsidy component remains at 20 per cent.

The subsidy will be provided to the beneficiaries through the DBT mode. These rooftop solar power plants will be connected to the grid on a net metering basis. The investments made by the beneficiaries will be recovered at a rate of 25 per cent annually on account of the saving of energy, with a payback period of approximately four years. With the implementation of the project, J&K will benefit from the generation of approximately 280 million units of energy annually, with a corresponding reduction in carbon emissions of approximately 5.44 million tons, besides reaping gains from savings on account of inter-state transmission losses to the tune of 224 million units. The generation of solar energy through the rooftop solar programme will also help the energy-deficit UT of J&K in supplementing its energy needs, while assisting the DISCOMs in achieving the Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) targets of 10.5 per cent as fixed by the Government of India.

Source: IANS

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INDIA

RAJASTHAN ALLOTS LAND TO ADANI FIRM TO

SET UP 1,000 MW SOLAR POWER PROJECT This allotment will be made under Rajasthan Land Revenue (Allotment of Land for Setting Up of Power Plant based on Renewable Energy Sources) Rules-2007.

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In the Rajasthan cabinet meeting held under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot at his official residence, many key decisions were taken including the allotment of 2,397.54 hectares of government land in Bandha village of Jaisalmer district to Adani Renewable Energy Holding Four Limited on cost for setting up 1,000 Mw Solar Power Project. This allotment will be made under Rajasthan Land Revenue (Allotment of Land for Setting Up of Power Plant based on Renewable Energy Sources) Rules-2007. Electricity generation will increase in the state with the setting up of solar energy-based production units.

Besides this, there will be an increase in the opportunities for local employment and revenue earning of the state. It is to be mentioned that Rajasthan is on the first position in the country by installing a capacity of around 13,000 MW of solar energy.

At the same, under Solar Energy Policy 2019, a target of generating 30,000 MW has been set by the year 2024-25. For this, the current government with the cabinet’s approval has allotted around 16,000 hectares of land for setting up solar and wind energy plants. The Cabinet also decided to amend the ‘Rajasthan State Employees General Provident Fund Rules, 2021’. In order to implement this proposal, the provisions of Rajasthan State Employees General Provident Fund Rules, 2021 will be applicable to the state employees appointed on and after 0101-2004. This personnel will now come under the ambit of GPF on the same lines as the employees appointed before 01-012004 under the provisions of GPF by deducting the prescribed GPF amount. The Cabinet has also decided to establish and operate a Medi-Tourism Wellness Centre at Nathdwara, which was announced in the budget 2022. The centre will be operated on a pilot basis under the aegis of district-level society through the experienced social organization to provide quality care under Naturopathy, Yoga and Ayurveda. It was also decided to set up Rajiv Gandhi Centre of Advance Technology (R-CAT) as a Finishing School for the youth of the state who will get opportunities to do certificate courses in the latest IT technology such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Robotics and Virtual Reality and multi-disciplinary research.

With this objective, the setting up of R-CAT was announced in the budget session 2021-22. The Cabinet has also decided to amend the earlier set priorities and the ‘Rajasthan Ethanol Production Promotion Policy 2021’ for setting up distilleries, breweries and bottling plants.

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Source: IANS

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INDIA’S POWER DEMAND JUMPS BY 45,000 MW IN A YEAR; ENSURING 23-23.5 HR SUPPLLIES: MINISTER Power plants are operating at full throttle to meet this demand, and the government has ordered coal import to meet the shortfall in domestic supplies.

India’s power demand this year has jumped by a record 40,00045,000 MW per day as an intense heat wave sweeps through northern parts of the country, the economy expands, and electricity reaches millions of unelectrified homes, Power Minister RK Singh has said. A massive addition in the generation capacity, integrating the country into one transmission grid and strengthening of the distribution system during eight years of the Modi government is ensuring the 23 to 23.5 hours of electricity supply, he said in an interview with PTI. India’s electricity demand on June 9 was recorded at an all-time high of 2,10,792 megawatts, and 4,712 million units of electricity were consumed. Power plants are operating at full throttle to meet this demand, and the government has ordered coal import to meet the shortfall in domestic supplies. “The whole power sector has changed (in last 8 years),” Singh said. “Before (2014), we were power deficit, load shedding was endemic”. According to a survey by an NGO, the average availability of power in rural areas was about 12.5 hours at the national level. “Today it is 22.5 hours,” he said. A power deficit nation with an average shortage of anywhere between 17 and 20 per cent, India has been transformed into a power surplus country.

Detailing the steps, he said in 8 years, 1,69,000 MW of capacity was added to take electricity generation capacity to over 4,00,000 MW (or 400 gigawatts).

Against this, the peak demand is just 215 GW. Power plants operate at run rates much lower than their capacity. This in the case of renewable energy units, such as solar power, is just one-fifth of the rated capacity. Also, the whole country was connected into one grid with one frequency after 1.66 lakh circuit kilometres of transmission lines were laid. This was supplemented by strengthening of the distribution system with the replacement of old lines, the addition of high and low tension lines, transformers, substations and feeder lines.

“Today, India is the world’s largest single frequency electricity grid,” he said. “Earlier, we could transfer about 37,000 MW (of electricity) from one corner to the other. Now we can transfer 1,12,000 MW.” Net results: availability of power has increased.

“Our system says in the rural areas, availability is now 23 hours on an average and in urban areas, it is almost about 23.5 hours by and large,” the minister added. Singh said thousands of villages and hamlets that hadn’t seen electricity in 70 years were provided connectivity. As many as 28.6 million unelectrified households – which is more than the combined population of Germany and France – were provided electricity. However, domestic production of coal – the feedstock for most of the power generated in the country – has kept pace with the spurt in demand. The minister said power plants have been asked to use 10 per cent imported coal for their power generation requirements Out of the 204.9 GW of installed coal-fired power generation capacity in India, around 17.6 GW or 8.6 per cent, is designed specifically to run on imported coal. Other power plants import the fuel for blending with domestic coal. Coal India Ltd has already floated tenders for the import of coal, he said. The current coal shortage is a result of domestic production not keeping pace with demand. “The domestic coal production has increased but not to that extent. So, the net result was that on April 1, our reserve stock at power plants was at 24 million tonnes and on April 30, it came down to 19 million

tonnes and further to 15 million tonnes on May 15,” he said, adding states too have been asked to import coal. Singh said the government was working to move domestic coal to power plants, as well as imported one to prepare for the monsoon season when output from local mines comes down. In addition to fossil fuel-based power generation capacity, renewable capacity addition has soared. “India pledged that by 2030, 40 per cent of our capacity will be non-fossil fuel-based. We achieved this target 9 years in advance in November 2021,” he said.

“Today, established renewable capacity is 1,58,000 MW and another 54,000 MW is under construction”. Added to that 6,000 MW of nuclear capacity, the total renewable capacity comes to 1,65,000 MW — which is 41 per cent of established capacity,

Source: PTI 36

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INDIA

BENGALURU-BASED STARTUP PRAVAIG TO SUPPLY BATTERIES FOR EUROPEAN FORCES

Pravaig, a Benguluru-based startup, has received an order to present compact vitality storages to European fight forces. The Made in India tactical batteries will energy tools utilized by European fight forces, Pravaig mentioned in a press release.

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M2M Factory & AMG Pro mixed, who’re giant distributors of defence and vitality tools to European armed forces with over 90 manufacturers comparable to Under Armour, Defcon, Casio, Magnum, Leatherman, are actually making tactical batteries in India with Pravaig. The Pravaig Field Pack might be equipped to the defence producer, the corporate assertion learn.

“These batteries are designed, engineered, and made in India.

This supply marks a major shift in the defence landscape of India. A tipping point in the reversal of India’s high technology defence industry, from users to developers, from importers to exporters. A feat considered impossible just a few years ago,” mentioned Siddhartha Bagri, CEO of Pravaig within the assertion. The trendy soldier is as a lot a cyborg as human, with electronics being a significant a part of their tools. Pravaig’s Field Pack supplies the fashionable soldier and their tools sufficient vitality to cost the equal of a MacBook 60 instances, the assertion mentioned. The light-weight, strong and waterproof batteries open immense alternatives for energising private tools,

deploying distant sensors and communication relays within the area, and remotely hibernating and activating considerably bigger tools.

“We showed Pravaig the difficulties of the soldiers in desert, snow, urban, and forest environments, and they have come up with an amazing solution to solve the energy needs.

We will showcase the Pravaig Field Pack at EuroSatory, the largest defence exhibition in Europe,” mentioned David Amsellem, CEO of AMG Pro.

“Pravaig delivered this solution from concept to creation within 60 days, something unheard of in the global defence industry,” mentioned Jeremie Caron, Director of M2M Factory.

NTPC’S 20 MW SOLAR CAPACITY BEGINS

Source: PTI

COMMERCIAL OPERATION AT KAWAS IN GUJARAT

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With this, the standalone installed and commercial capacity of NTPC has reached 54,616.68 MW

tate-owned power giant NTPC announced the beginning of commercial operation of the first part capacity of 20 MW out of 56 MW Kawas Solar PV Project in Gujarat.

“Consequent upon successful commissioning, the first part capacity of 20 MW out of 56 MW Kawas Solar PV Project at Kawas, Gujarat, is declared on Commercial Operation from 00:00 Hrs of May 14, 2022,” a BSE filing said. With this, the standalone installed and commercial capacity of NTPC has reached 54,616.68 MW. Further, the NTPC group installed and commercial capacity has touched 68,981.68 and 68,321.68 MW, respectively.

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Source: PTI

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ADANI TRANSMISSION’S USD 700-MN REVOLVING FACILITY GETS ‘GREEN LOAN’ TAG Adani Transmission Limited (ATL) said its USD 700 million revolving loan facility has been tagged as ‘green loan’ by Sustainalytics.

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Sustainalytics, a Morningstar Company, provides analytical environmental, social and governance (ESG) research, ratings and data to institutional investors and companies. In a statement issued, ATL said its “USD 700 million revolving facility has been tagged as green loan by Sustainalytics. This provides assurance on the green loan framework for the revolving facility.” A revolving loan facility is a flexible financing tool that provides the borrower with the ability to draw down or withdraw, repay, and withdraw again. On receiving the green load tag, Anil Sardana, MD and CEO, ATL said “ATL has been a signatory to energy compact goals as part of COP26 and the energy compact with the UN in November, 2021. On receiving the green load tag, Anil Sardana, MD and CEO, ATL said “ATL has been a signatory to energy compact goals as part of COP26 and the energy compact with the UN in November, 2021. The revolving nature of the facility will help the company to achieve its goal of 20,000 ckt km (circuit kilometer) of transmission lines by 2022, ATL had said. The projects associated with the USD 700 million revolving facility are being implemented in Gujarat and Maharashtra. In Gujarat, the projects are part of the government’s Green Energy Corridor Projects (GEC), dedicated to the evacuation and transmission of renewable energy. While

in Maharashtra, the projects are conceptualized to strengthen Mumbai’s transmission system by enhancing grid stability and providing a stable transmission network, which shall promote higher share of renewable energy in the overall grid mix ensuring more penetration of green energy to the end consumers.

Source: PTI

JIO-BP TO POWER ZOMATO’S 100 PER CENT ELECTRIC VEHICLE FLEET

Jio-bp, a fuels and mobility joint venture between Reliance Industries Limited and bp, said it has entered into an agreement to support Zomato in fulfilling its commitment to have 100 per cent electric vehicle fleet by 2030.

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s part of the deal, Jio-bp will provide EV mobility services to Zomato along with access to ‘Jio-bp pulse’ branded battery swapping stations for last-mile delivery.

This will help Zomato in fulfilling its commitment toward The Climate Group’s EV100 initiative of 100 per cent EV fleet by 2030. Launched in 2008, Zomato offers services like restaurant search and discovery, reviews, home delivery of food, online table reservation, and digital payments when dining out. Leveraging the best of RIL and bp’s strengths in electrification, Jio-bp is creating an ecosystem that will benefit all the stakeholders in the EV value chain, according to a joint statement released by Jio-bp and Zomato. Last year, Jio-bp, constructed and launched two of India’s largest EV charging hubs. The JV’s electric mobility business, offering charging infrastructure to Indian consumers, operates under the brand Jio-bp pulse. With the Jio-bp pulse mobile app, customers can easily find nearby charging stations and seamlessly charge their EVs. “The collaboration is poised to accelerate EV adoption in the rapidly growing Indian delivery and transportation segment,” the statement said.

With high-performance batteries resulting in superior on-road range and with swapping taking just a couple of minutes,

battery swapping has become an ideal solution for two and three-wheelers, especially those playing in the last-mile delivery segment. Therefore, battery swapping is set to be the primary driver in electrification of the last mile delivery and passenger segments, it said.

Source: ANI 38

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NEW PARTNERSHIP SIGNED TO SUPPORT DEVELOPING COUNTRIES IN THEIR RENEWABLE ENERGY DEPLOYMENT The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the OPEC Fund for International Development (OPEC Fund) are ramping up efforts to advance renewable energy investment and enable access to sustainable finance in emerging and developing economies.

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Memorandum of Understanding signed in Vienna by IRENA’s Director-General Francesco La Camera and the DirectorGeneral of the OPEC Fund, Dr Abdulhamid Alkhalifa, formalises the cooperation. In pursuit of the common objective of a just, inclusive and equitable energy transition aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement, both sides agreed to mobilise finance, unlock investment and support project development on the ground.

IRENA’s Director-General Francesco La Camera said: “The global energy transition must dramatically accelerate.

To achieve net zero and universal energy access, our World Energy Transitions Outlook shows that we must nearly treble the speed of deployment of renewables and massively redirect investment towards transition. Our cooperation with the OPEC Fund will help unlock much needed capital in developing countries to bring economic growth, sustainable prosperity and jobs to people through renewables projects on the ground.”

OPEC Fund Director-General Abdulhamid Alkhalifa added: “We promote an inclusive and just energy transition that leaves no one behind. Our cooperation with IRENA will help to provide the necessary funds and facilitate access to innovative financing solutions, knowledge and technologies, as well as technical assistance for project development and capacity building to support the energy transition in our partner countries, particularly in Africa.”

At a practical level, both sides will closely collaborate to provide technical assistance and capacity building to project developers, creating a pipeline of bankable projects ready to be financed. They will also work to attract potential investors. The parties will also explore cooperation under the IRENA-managed Energy Transition Accelerator Financing (ETAF) Platform, the Climate Investment Platform (CIP), and OPEC Fund initiatives such as the planned Energy Access and Transition Trust Fund.

Both sides will also closely collaborate at UN Climate Conferences COP27 in Egypt in November 2022 and COP28 in the United Arab Emirates in November 2023.

Source: irena

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HH2E AND MET GROUP FOUND A JOINT PROJECT COMPANY FOR THE

DEVELOPMENT OF ONE OF THE LARGEST PLANTS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF GREEN HYDROGEN IN EUROPE IN LUBMIN, MECKLENBURG-WEST POMERANIA, GERMANY • 100 MW input power by 2025, scalable to 1 GW by 2030. The total investment for 100 MW input power will be around 200 million euros • 000 tons/year production of green hydrogen by 2025 to supply hydrogen for transport and industrial customers in Germany.

• HH2E AG and the Swiss MET Group have just announced a partnership to develop one of the largest production plants for green hydrogen in Europe to date in Lubmin/Mecklenburg-West Pomerania on the German Baltic Sea coast. In the first expansion stage, the project is to include the construction of a new generation Power-to-X plant with a capacity of around 6,000 tons (~ over 200,000 MWh) of green hydrogen per year. In a second expansion stage, an output of over 1 GW is planned, which will produce more than 60,000 tons of green hydrogen per year and avoid over 800,000 tons of direct CO2 emissions annually.

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he construction of the first expansion stage of the plant in Lubmin, with a total investment of over 200 million euros, is to start in 2023. Commissioning is planned for 2025. The second stage of expansion is scheduled to go into operation in 2030. The total investment involved can exceed 1 billion euros. The technological configuration developed by HH2E for the green power plant in Lubmin is another step towards 100% renewable energy for

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all consumption sectors and 24/7. The volatility of renewable energy production is solved by combining a 50MW alkaline electrolyser with a 200MWh high-capacity battery, enabling constant production of green hydrogen. According to Andreas Schierenbeck, co-founder and board member of HH2E, “The electrolyser produces green hydrogen when there is enough electricity from the wind and sun, and the battery is then also

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charged. If the simultaneous generation of renewable energy is not enough, the battery provides the green electricity that keeps the electrolyser in constant production. Our technology mix thus enables maximum use of electrolysis even when the availability of green electricity is inconsistent.” The electricity feed-in from renewable energies is to be secured via long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs) for electricity from offshore and onshore wind farms and solar parks in the region.

In the words of the mayor of Lubmin, Axel Vogt, “our municipality and the Lubminer Heide industrial site are breaking new ground in terms of development. I am pleased that an old infrastructure that once housed a nuclear power plant is paving the way for a new generation green energy site. The facility at Lubmin is strategically located close to wind and solar farms that produce large amounts of renewable energy.”

Jörg Selbach-Röntgen, CEO of MET Germany GmbH, said: “The market in Germany shows an extraordinarily high interest in green hydrogen as part of the energy transition and the raw material mix. As the MET Group, we are very interested and committed to making our contribution to the energy transition.

The development of the project will depend heavily on the demand from industry and the energy sector in Germany, which we want to ensure through reliable and long-term supply relationships.”

Reinhard Meyer, Economics and Energy Minister of Mecklenburg-West Pomerania, welcomes the planned investment: “The planned construction and operation of an electrolysis plant on an industrial scale in Lubmin shows very clearly that Mecklenburg-West Pomerania, with its large supply of wind and solar power, has real locational advantages for Investments in the energy transition and thus in the transformation of industry to climate neutrality.

This project can make an important contribution to a green hydrogen economy on our Baltic Sea coast. In the future, the green hydrogen will be used regionally by new industrial companies, logistics companies and the maritime economy.

This puts these companies in a position to obtain affordable green energy on a permanent basis – a real competitive advantage for our country.”

The partnership between HH2E and MET Group is substantiated in the founding of the project company “H2 Lubmin GmbH”, which will be responsible for the development of the project, the construction and the long-term operation of the new plant.

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ADANI GROUP JOINS HANDS WITH TOTALENERGIES FOR ITS USD 50 BILLION GREEN HYDROGEN VENTURE

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Partnership is expected to transform the energy landscape both in India and globally Billionaire Gautam Adani’s logistics-to-energy conglomerate has roped in French supermajor TotalEnergies as a partner for its green hydrogen production venture that will see an investment of USD 50 billion over the next 10 years in producing the carbonfree fuel. TotalEnergies will acquire 25 per cent shareholding in Adani New Industries Ltd — the firm that houses Adani Group’s new energy business — for an undisclosed amount, the two firms said in separate statements. “TotalEnergies has entered into an agreement with (Adani Group’s flagship) Adani Enterprises Limited (AEL) to acquire a 25 per cent interest in ANIL,” the French energy giant said. ANIL will be the exclusive platform of AEL and TotalEnergies for the production and commercialization of green hydrogen in India. “ANIL will target a production of one million metric tons of green hydrogen per year (Mtpa) by 2030, underpinned by around 30 gigawatts (GW) of new renewable power generation capacity, as its first milestone,” it said. Adani Group statement said the partnership, centered on green hydrogen, is expected to transform the energy landscape both in India and globally. “ANIL’s ambition is to invest over USD 50 billion over the next 10 years in green hydrogen and associated ecosystem,” it said.

The French energy firm did not give any investment number in its statement. In January, Adani Group had set up a new subsidiary, ANIL, to undertake green hydrogen projects, generation of low carbon electricity and manufacture of wind turbines, solar modules and batteries as it looks to become the world’s largest renewable energy company and produce the cheapest hydrogen. Adani had in November last year stated that his group will invest USD 70 billion in the new energy space of the next decade. This included Adani Green Energy Ltd (AGEL), the world’s largest solar power developer, investing USD 20 billion to develop a 2 GW per year solar module manufacturing capacity by 2022-23.

Hydrogen is a clean fuel that, when consumed in a fuel cell, produces only water. Hydrogen can be produced from a variety of resources, such as natural gas, nuclear power, biomass, and renewable power like solar and wind. It can be used as transportation fuel for cars, as well as for producing portable power. Hydrogen produced from coal is called brown hydrogen, and hydrogen produced from natural gas or petroleum is referred to as grey hydrogen. Brown or grey hydrogen production combined with carbon capture and storage/sequestration is referred to as blue hydrogen. Hydrogen produced with nuclear energy may be called pink hydrogen or clean hydrogen.

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Green hydrogen is produced when it is split from water using electricity produced from renewable sources as solar or wind.

“In order to control green hydrogen production costs, ANIL will be integrated along the value chain, from the manufacturing of equipment needed to generate renewable power and produce green hydrogen, to the production of green hydrogen itself and its transformation into derivatives, including nitrogenous fertilizers and methanol, both for the domestic market and export,” TotalEnergies said. To start with, ANIL intends to develop a project to produce 1.3 million tonnes per annum of urea derived from green hydrogen for the Indian domestic market, as a substitution for current urea imports and will invest around USD 5 billion in a 2 GW electrolyzer fed by renewable power from a 4 GW solar and wind farm. TotalEnergies is already a partner in Adani Green Energy Ltd — the renewable energy venture of the Adani group, as well as in Adani Total Gas Ltd — the city gas distribution firm. For the hydrogen venture, Adani group will bring to the table “its deep knowledge of the Indian market, execution capabilities, and operations and capital management excellence”, while TotalEnergies will offer its thorough understanding of the global markets, expertise in renewable technologies and large-scale industrial projects, and financial strength, enabling ANIL to lower its financing cost, the French firm said. “The strategic value of the Adani-TotalEnergies relationship is immense at both the business level and the ambition level,” said Gautam Adani, Chairman, Adani Group.

“In order to control green hydrogen production costs, ANIL will be integrated along the value chain, from the manufacturing of equipment needed to generate renewable power and produce green hydrogen, to the production of green hydrogen itself and its transformation into derivatives, including nitrogenous fertilizers and methanol, both for the domestic market and export,” TotalEnergies said. To start with, ANIL intends to develop a project to produce 1.3 million tonnes per annum of urea derived from green hydrogen for the Indian domestic market, as a substitution for current urea imports and will invest around USD 5 billion in a 2 GW electrolyzer fed by renewable power from a 4 GW solar and wind farm. TotalEnergies is already a partner in Adani Green Energy Ltd — the renewable energy venture of the Adani group, as well as in Adani Total Gas Ltd — the city gas distribution firm. For the hydrogen venture, Adani group will bring to the table “its deep knowledge of the Indian market, execution capabilities, and operations and capital management excellence”, while TotalEnergies will offer its thorough understanding of the global markets, expertise in renewable technologies and large-scale industrial projects, and financial strength, enabling ANIL to lower its financing cost, the French firm said.

“The strategic value of the Adani-TotalEnergies relationship is immense at both the business level and the ambition level,” said Gautam Adani, Chairman, Adani Group. “In our journey

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BUSINESS & FINANCE to become the largest green hydrogen player in the world, the partnership with TotalEnergies adds several dimensions that include R&D, market reach and an understanding of the end consumer. This fundamentally allows us to shape the market demand.” TotalEnergies Chairman and CEO Patrick Pouyanné said future production capacity of 1 million tons per annum of green hydrogen will be a major step in increasing the French firm’s share of new decarbonized molecules including biofuels, biogas, hydrogen, and e-fuels to 25 per cent of its energy production and sales by 2050.ANIL aims to be the largest fully integrated green hydrogen player in the world, with a presence across the entire value chain, from the manufacturing of renewables and green hydrogen equipment (solar panels, wind turbines, electrolysers, etc.), to large-scale generation of green

hydrogen, to downstream facilities producing green hydrogen derivatives, Adani Group said. “With this investment in ANIL, the strategic alliance between the Adani Portfolio and TotalEnergies now covers LNG terminals, the gas utility business, renewables business and green hydrogen production,” it said. In 2018, TotalEnergies and Adani Group embarked on an energy partnership with the development of a joint LNG business – from regas terminals to LNG marketing – and investment by TotalEnergies in Adani Total Gas Limited, a city gas distribution business. In 2020, TotalEnergies acquired a 20 per cent minority interest in Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL), then the largest solar developer in the world, along with a 50 per cent stake in a 2.35 GWac portfolio of operating solar assets owned

by AGEL, for a total investment of USD 2.5 billion.

Source: PTI

ELECTRIC VEHICLE MAKER EULER MOTORS PARTNERS WITH LETSTRANSPORT TO DEPLOY 1,000 HILOAD EVS Electric vehicle maker, Euler Motors said it has partnered with urban logistics aggregator LetsTransport to deploy 1,000 units of its electric threewheeler HiLoad, in the commercial segment.

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ver the next 12 months, the two companies will collaborate to deploy these EVs in Bangalore, Hyderabad, Delhi-NCR and cover other cities across India, the company said in a statement. “Euler Motors will oversee deployment of these vehicles via its full stack ecosystem of charging infrastructure and service support, while LetsTransport will enable customer mobilisation and retail deliveries,” it added. Commenting on the association, Euler Motors Founder and CEO Saurav Kumar said, “Our partnership with LetsTransport is yet another successful milestone in the pursuit to bring a real change in EV adoption and aggressively expand our customer footprint in India.” LetsTransport Founder & CEO Pushkar Singh said intra-city logistics is already on a transformation, with electric vehicles as the future.

“Their (Euler Motors) product and supportive solutions make us confident about the business impact for our customers, as well as for the larger society. We are excited about working with Saurav and his team, and will place 300 EVs in 2022, and plan to deploy 3000 EVs by end of 2025,” he added. HiLoad has a load capacity of 688 kg with an on-road range of 151 km on a single charge and a 12.4 KwH liquid cooled battery, Euler

Motors said, adding it has an order book of over 9,000 units.

The company plans to deploy around 8,000 HiLoad EVs in the current financial year, it added.

Source: PTI

DORAL OBTAINS FUNDS FOR 400-MW PHOTO VOLTAIC MISSION IN INDIANA

Doral Renewables LLC, owned by Israeli renewable vitality firm Doral Group (TLV:DORL), stated at the moment it has efficiently closed development financing for the primary part of the 1.3-GW Mammoth Photo voltaic mission in Northwestern Indiana.

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he New York department of Deutsche Financial institution AG has organized a USD-392-million (EUR 375m) financing package deal consisting of a USD-157-million construction-to-term mortgage facility, a USD-170-million tax fairness bridge mortgage and a USD-65-million letter of credit score facility. On the similar time, Doral has signed an almost USD-175-million tax fairness dedication for the mission from Financial institution of America NA, with Marathon Capital Markets LLC serving as

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unique monetary advisor for Doral. The funding helps the 400MW Mammoth North part of the bigger mission that’s positioned on 4,500 acres in Starke County, Indiana. It’s designed to be a ground-mounted single-axis PV system that may provide about 75,000 Midwestern properties as soon as in operation. Upon completion, the photo voltaic park will likely be promoting its electrical energy to AEP Vitality Companions, a unit of American Electrical Energy Co Inc (NASDAQ:AEP). In accordance with CFO Evan Speece, the newly secured capital will enable the corporate to carry Mammoth North to industrial operation as anticipated subsequent 12 months.

Source: renewablesnow

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THOMASLLOYD ENERGY BUYS FINAL STAKE IN SOLARARISE INDIA

ThomasLloyd Energy Impact Trust PLC – London-based Asia-focused renewable energy investment trust.

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homasLloyd Energy Impact Trust PLC – London-based Asia-focused renewable energy investment trust – Buys final 57% stake in New Delhi-based solar plant operator SolarArise India Projects Private Ltd. ThomasLloyd Energy bought 43% stake in SolarArise in March. ThomasLloyd funds USD38.5 million acquisition from existing cash resources. Completion expected in the coming weeks. “SolarArise is a Delhi based renewable energy platform which holds interests in seven solar power projects in India totalling 434 megawatt, of which 234 megawatt is operational and 200 megawatt is construction-ready. 100% of SolarArise’s operating revenues are generated under fixed price, long-term power purchase agreements,” ThomasLloyd Energy explains. “This puts us firmly on track with our deployment targets as set out at initial public offering,” says Nandita Sahgal-Tully, managing director of ThomasLloyd Energy’s infrastructure asset management arm. “Our strategy of investing in sustainable energy infrastructure in fast-growing economies to deliver financial returns alongside environmental and social benefits represents a large opportunity, in areas where the investment case is compelling and the largest impact can be seen with regards to achieving net zero,” she adds. Current stock price: 88.00 pence, down 1.4%.

Source: morningstar

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RENEWABLE ENERGY

MIDEAST POWER GRIDS: HOW TO INTEGRATE

RENEWABLES & MAINTAIN STABILITY

The energy transition is underway in the Middle East with net-zero targets set and an acceleration of renewable power investment. The shift to renewables brings challenges for grid stability. Siemens Energy’s Elyes San-Haji* lays out how these can be tackled.

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he current energy crisis is making one thing clear, we need to transition away from fossil fuels as soon as possible. A shift to renewables can offer a myriad of benefits, not just greener electricity, but more stability in prices, security of supply, and the potential to reduce geopolitical insecurity through a greater distribution of resources. The good news is that the technology is already available, the political will is there, and the social demand is there.

The shift has already started in the Middle East where installed renewable energy capacity rose 4.5% to reach 24,049 MW in 2021 according to international renewables agency Irena the largest current component is from hydropower plants in Iran and the regional total is set to soar in the coming years as major regional investments in solar and wind come online. In just eight years, from 2008 until 2016, investments in renewables across the region increased nine-fold to $11bn from $1.2bn in 2008. The pace will only accelerate from there. Today, several countries in the region are among global frontrunners in renewable energy development.

THE CHALLENGE OF INTERMITTENT SUPPLY The challenge going forward will be to manage the strong fluctuations that result from intermittent renewable energies. Power from wind and solar complicates management of the grid because they are variable – they vary with the weather conditions. You can’t ramp them up and down as we do with fossil fuel plants. This vastly increases the complexity of matching supply to demand in real time, and creates an urgent need for flexibility. The transmission network is the lifeline that connects everything, so addressing this challenge is one of the most important components of a successful energy transition. Today’s grids are not prepared for this challenge which affects network voltage, frequency and load flow. We need grid stabilization and storage in order to prepare our grids for the future and that means more investments in grid infrastructure. This was a topic of debate at the MEA Energy Week conference in June, and the conclusion was that if we want a successful energy transition and we want to build out renewables, it doesn’t come for free. We need to invest in and build out transmission grids. If we want a net zero future, it will cost us, but it is an investment in the future for the planet and future generations. In order to do that, utilities must invest in a holistic program. They will need proper storage technology coupled with Grid Control and Grid Stabilizers (SVC). The solutions needed to make the grid more resilient will help with fast-reacting voltage control under various load conditions, providing inertia and fast frequency response in case of sudden changes in generation or load and enabling dynamic load flow management to make the best use of the existing grids and renewable generation.

TECHNOLOGICAL SOLUTIONS Besides maintaining grid fundamentals such as stabilized voltage, strong frequency, and balanced power flow, it is also essential to ensure full and quick control under all circumstances.

While we are practiced and proficient at exerting control under

a steady state, it is challenging to do the same under fast changing conditions, so it was essential to introduce power electronics into high voltage transmission systems. One of the most important power electronics solutions on the market is the High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) system. This system can connect renewable energy bulk power sources with load centers as well as establish interconnected grids between countries. This makes them essential for the grids of the future.

One of Europe’s most important energy projects, the 190km Greenlink Interconnector which will link the power grids of Ireland and Great Britain, will rely on the HVDC system. This project will allow both countries to benefit from increased grid stability, security of power supply and cost-effective growth and integration of low carbon renewable energy. But the challenge we face is not limited to connecting renewable energy to the grid. We must also improve grid transmission quality and efficiency. Due to the intermittency and volatile nature of renewable energies, grid stabilization technologies will play an increasingly important role for a successful energy transition. We must look at supplying reactive power to the grid and ensuring stable grid voltage to avoid dangerous voltage drops. This will require investments in flexible alternating current transmission systems (FACTS). Such systems increase the power transfer capability of transmission lines and help to make grids more reliable by increasing voltage stability and regulation. With the removal of rotating equipment – like gas and steam turbines – from the grids of the future, we will also need to address the missing inertia. The energy stored in rotating generators enables them to remain rotating, reducing large voltage fluctuation in grids. Grid inertia is the factor that protects our grids from sudden blackouts so it must be substituted to ensure grid stability. One solution that could provide a substitute for missing inertia, whilst providing reactive and short-circuit power, is the so-called synchronous condenser which is basically a large rotating generator connected to the high-voltage transmission network via a step-up transformer. These solutions will need to become more widespread as countries’ energy mixes are increasingly weighted towards renewables. For example, renewable energy made up 53% of total Estonian power output for Q2 2020. We are already providing three 330 kilovolt synchronous condenser plants at Püssi, Viru and Kiisa in the north of Estonia. These will ensure stable operation of the Estonian grid while also providing or absorbing reactive power. Such projects will help with the smooth integration of renewables to our grids.

Digital technologies will also have a big role in the grids of the future. Smart grids will become a key enabler to the new world of renewable systems. It is important to use state-of-the-art digitalization technologies to safely manage the new grid ecosystem and leverage all automation potential. Data analytics and state predictions will boost the utilization of transmission assets tremendously by enabling better transparency, availability and operational efficiency. To deliver electricity in the required quantity, quality, and reliability, grids must be prepared with the right set of capabilities. Expanding, automating, and upgrading the transmission grids as well as ensuring grid stability are fundamental prerequisites for the success of the energy transition.

Source: mees

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RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECTS WORTH AROUND USD 197 BILLION UNDERWAY IN INDIA: UNION MINISTER BHAGWANT KHUBA Union Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy Bhagwant Khuba has invited international buyers to take a position in India’s clear vitality business, stressing that projects worth around USD 196.98 billion are underway in the sector.

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Addressing buyers at a convention in Munich, Germany, Khuba mentioned India affords a terrific alternative for investments. “Currently around USD 196.98 billion worth of projects are underway in India. I once again invite all the developed countries and major RE (renewable energy) players to utilise the opportunity India is offering to the world,” he mentioned. Khuba delivered the keynote handle at ‘Intersolar Europe 2022’ on “India’s Solar Energy Market”.

He mentioned beneath Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s bold Panchamrit targets set throughout COP26, India is all set to realize internet zero by 2070 and set up 500 GW of non-fossil gas capability by 2030. The minister additional mentioned India’s huge renewable vitality useful resource potential and powerful coverage backing present a powerful basis for reaching

producing 4.1 million tonnes of inexperienced hydrogen yearly. these objectives. He identified that India has seen unbelievable progress of RE capability in the final seven years and has achieved the goal of 40 per cent cumulative electrical capability from non-fossil fuels in 2021, a full 9 years forward of the goal of 2030. Government of India is dedicated to selling home manufacturing in the photo voltaic photovoltaic (PV) sector to realize its bold deployment objectives. Several coverage measures have been undertaken to assist the home PV manufacturing sector. The minister additionally emphasised that India is dedicated to growing home manufacturing of high-efficiency photo voltaic PV modules for which complete finances outlay of Rs 24,000 crore has been made. Further, to advertise inexperienced hydrogen economic system, India has estimated an outlay of Rs 25,425 crore. The Green Hydrogen Mission eyes

Source: PTI

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RENEWABLES REMAIN CHEAPEST, BUT COST REDUCTIONS ON HOLD

CSIRO’s annual GenCost report confirms wind and solar are the cheapest source of electricity generation and storage in Australia. The 2021-22 report is available now at CSIRO.au

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enewables remain the cheapest new-build electricity generation option in Australia, although inflation and supply chain disruptions will likely put cost reductions on hold for the next year, CSIRO’s annual GenCost report has found. Each year, Australia’s national science agency CSIRO, and the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), work with industry to give an updated cost estimate for large-scale electricity generation in Australia. The report considers a range of future scenarios to understand the mix of technologies that may be adopted and costs for each of these possible pathways. The 2021-22 report confirms past years’ findings that wind and solar are the cheapest source of electricity generation and storage in Australia, even when considering additional integration costs arising due to the variable output of renewables, such as energy storage and transmission. According to CSIRO Chief Executive Dr Larry Marshall the detailed scientific and engineering analysis reported on in GenCost provide important insights into the electricity market, helping industry and government navigate Australia’s energy transition. “Australia’s energy sector faces a number of unique challenges as we navigate the transition to net zero emissions.

GenCost is a rigorous analysis to help inform decision makers with detailed insights to support the decarbonisation of Australia’s energy system.The latest report shows renewables are holding steady as the lowest cost source of new-build electricity. With the world’s largest penetration of rooftop solar, unique critical energy metals, a world class research sector and a highly skilled workforce, Australia can turn our challenges into the immense opportunity of being a global leader in renewable energy,” he said. Projections in the report assume that cost reductions for all technologies will stall for the next 12 months because tight global supply chains will require more time to recover from the pandemic. However, after the current inflationary cycle ends, solar, wind, and batteries are all projected to keep getting cheaper. CSIRO Chief Energy Economist Paul Graham said researchers had observed year-on-year cost reductions for most technologies and this year’s report is no exception. “What will be different in the next year is that we will have a confluence of factors impacting project costs. The war in Ukraine has resulted in fossil energy price inflation which flows through to all parts of the economy through transport and energy costs. We also have tight supply chains that are still recovering,” he said. The final 2022 report also includes an update on costs of hydrogen electrolysers which are experiencing rapid cost reductions and could support a faster transition to green hydrogen, particularly in the current context of high natural gas prices. The updated analyses also found that: Both onshore and offshore wind costs have fallen faster than expected. Onshore wind cost changes reflect Australian projects. Offshore wind is yet to be developed in Australia however, cost reductions achieved overseas mean that Australian projects are expected to be lower cost than previously expected.

Solar and wind continue to be the cheapest sources of electricity for any expected share of renewables in the grid — anywhere from 50% to 90%. A 100% renewable system would not

be entirely made up of wind and solar but include other renewables such as hydro power, biomass, and green hydrogen.

Solar and wind begin to require additional investments in storage and transmission once variable renewables reach ~50% share of generation. Solar and wind require new transmission connections to access the best resource. Storage, in the form of batteries or pumped hydro, together with existing flexible gas generation ensures that demand can be met reliably from these variable generation sources. Cost reductions for technologies not currently being widely deployed such as carbon capture and storage (CCS), nuclear Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), solar thermal, and ocean energy are lagging and would require stronger investment to realise their full potential. The status of nuclear SMR has not changed. Following extensive consultation with the Australian electricity industry, report findings do not see any prospect of domestic projects this decade, given the technology’s commercial immaturity and high cost. Future cost reductions are possible but depend on its successful commercial deployment overseas. AEMO’s Executive General Manager – System Design Ms Merryn York said analysis shows that timely investment in new, firmed renewables will provide the most economic form of electricity generation moving forward. “With growing opportunity to decarbonise Australia’s economy, understanding the investments that can support a low emissions power system, provide resilience to international pressures, and reduce consumer costs is critically important to enabling the energy transition,” she said

Source: csiro 48

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RENEWABLE ENERGY ANDHRA WILL LEAD RENEWABLE ENERGY SECTOR, SAYS JAGAN

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Jagan performed the first cement pouring ceremony for the IRESP, which is being established by the Greenko Group in Kurnool. sserting that Andhra Pradesh would be at the forefront of generating renewable energy once the world’s largest Integrated Renewable Energy Storage Project (IRESP) is executed, Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy said the project would be a game changer in generating renewable energy. Jagan performed the first cement pouring ceremony for the IRESP, which is being established by the Greenko Group in Kurnool. Appreciating the organisation for setting up the world’s largest solar energy storage plant in Andhra Pradesh, Jagan said the 5,230 Megawatt (MW) project will help deliver cost-effective, flexible and clean energy round the clock. “Its capability to generate clean solar, wind and hydro energy round the clock is the beauty of the project,” the chief minister remarked. He added that certain components of the solar and wind power would be used to pump the water back

into the reservoir during the non-peak hours so that it can be used in the peak hours. “The project would place Andhra Pradesh at the forefront in the renewable energy sector,’’ Jagan noted. Ensuring all possible help for the project, the chief minister said the $3-billion project would help decarbonise the economy. In an exclusive offer, he invited those who have an interest in green power as well as in decarbonising the economies and added that the State has the capacity to generate over 33,000 MW power due to its weather conditions and available resources. Elaborating on the Integrated Renewable Energy Storage Project, Greenko Group Joint Managing Director Mahesh Kolli said out of 5,230 MW, 3,000 MW would be solar, 550 MW wind and 1,680 MW would be a pump storage capacity for six hours. It is expected to be commissioned by 2023, Kolli said. Greenko Group CEO and MD Anil Chalamalasetty said they have pioneered the concept of energy storage and that this was possible due to policy support at the national and State level.

Source: PTI

SIMPLY BLUE GROUP UNVEILS MULTI GIGAWATT (GW) OF OFFSHORE FLOATING WIND PROJECTS IN SWEDEN

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Simply Blue Group Unveils c.5 GigaWatt (GW) of Offshore Floating Wind Projects in Sweden imply Blue Group, a leading Irish blue economy developer in floating offshore wind has unveiled plans for two multi-GW projects in Sweden. The 2 GW Skidbladner Floating Wind Project is located 100Km South-East of Stockholm and the 2.75GW Herkules Floating Wind project, is approximately 60 km Southeast of the Island of Gotland. Simply Blue Group is working in collaboration with leading wind energy consultancy Wind Sweden on both projects. In total Simply Blue Group and Wind Sweden are planning on developing c. 5 GW of floating wind in Swedish waters. Adrian de Andres, Director Market Development at Simply Blue Group said: “Floating wind has an important role to play in the Swedish Energy mix as well as Nordpool given it can be located further from shore and therefore its visual impact is significantly reduced. Our project selection has focused on sites that we believe are environmentally friendly and at the same time technically and commercially feasible.” He continued: “We believe floating wind cost reductions will be steep in the next decade and therefore will be able to compete with other renewable energy sources in the 2030s.

We are excited to bring our global floating wind expertise to Sweden while at the same time working with local companies.”

Jeanette Lindeblad CEO of Wind Sweden said “Europe and Sweden are facing an increasingly urgent need to increase the production of renew

able and fossil-free energy. Our collaboration with Simply Blue Group is a concrete example of how companies from different countries work together for a more sustainable future. To also be part of a project that is at the forefront of the technical development of offshore wind power, we see as both challenging and honorable.” This announcement comes just

Source: simplybluegroup

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INTERNATIONAL

COAL ROYALTIES: QUEENSLAND WINS WHERE NSW’S RENEWABLE ENERGY SUPERSTAR FEARS TO TREAD a day of contrasting state budgets, but in ways that many people wouldn’t expect – the Queensland state budget delivered by treasurer Cameron Dick and the NSW budget delivered by Treasurer Matt Kean (otherwise known as our renewable energy superstar).

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ueensland has addressed with clear vision the windfall war profiteering of the fossil fuel industry – and the state’s concurrent fiscal, energy and climate crises – by announcing a massive lift in the Queensland coal royalty rate on windfall gains – 40% when prices exceed $A300/t. NSW continues to receive just scraps from its coal export industry – a flat royalty rate of just 7-8% – as the fossil fuel sector makes windfall profits, even as our most vulnerable people are smashed with the multiple consequences of rampant domestic fossil fuel energy hyperinflation and associated mortgage rate rises. This set of circumstances further supports the case for federal treasurer Jim Chalmers to bring in a Carbon Export Windfall Tax, expanding upon the Gas Windfall Export Tax proposed this week by former Treasury Secretary Dr Ken Henry. A day of contrasting state budgets, but in ways that many people wouldn’t expect – the Queensland state budget delivered by treasurer Cameron Dick and the NSW budget delivered by Treasurer Matt Kean (otherwise known as our renewable energy superstar). Queensland has addressed with clear vision the windfall war profiteering of the fossil fuel industry – and the state’s concurrent fiscal, energy and climate crises – by

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announcing a massive lift in the Queensland coal royalty rate on windfall gains – 40% when prices exceed $A300/t. NSW continues to receive just scraps from its coal export industry – a flat royalty rate of just 7-8% – as the fossil fuel sector makes windfall profits, even as our most vulnerable people are smashed with the multiple consequences of rampant domestic fossil fuel energy hyperinflation and associated mortgage rate rises. This set of circumstances further supports the case for federal treasurer Jim Chalmers to bring in a Carbon Export Windfall Tax, expanding upon the Gas Windfall Export Tax proposed this week by former Treasury Secretary Dr Ken Henry.

But in an act of bravery and fiscal responsibility that will have Queensland Resources Council chief lobbyist Ian MacFarlane frothing, royalties will ratchet up to 40% for every dollar above $A300/t. It’s brilliant! The thermal coal export price is $US386/t ($A544) this month, and the coking coal price is even higher.

While fossil fuel hyperinflation continues to send shockwaves through the global economy and impact Australians in their skyrocketing mortgages and cost of living, this will deliver returns to Queensland taxpayers of some $147 with every tonne exported from July 2022. The Queensland 2022/23 budget (Table 4.6 below) details coal royalties of $7.3bn in FY2022 ($1.73bn in FY2021), falling to a forecast of just $5.5bn on the conservative presumption of a

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INTERNATIONAL rapid decline in coal prices. East Australian energy users can only pray this comes true. But absent this normal rapid commodity price cyclicality, the windfall to Queensland could be another $10-20bn in the next year alone given close to 200Mtpa of mostly coking coal exports and a 27% royalty share of windfall prices evident at today’s near record spot prices (except for Adani’s Carmichael mine, given its 7 year royalty holiday).

This is reminiscent of the corporate tax rate of up to 78% applying to fossil fuel firms in Norway, a progressive tax that has given 5.5 million Norwegians a Sovereign Wealth Fund of now US$1.3 trillion, making them the richest people per capita in the world. Sure, the Norwegian fossil fuel industry gets capital subsidies, but so too does the industry that has made Australia the third largest fossil fuel exporter in the world, right up there with the Saudi Arabian and Russian fossil fuel mafia. Under Josh Frydenberg’s total regulatory capture, Australian fossil fuel subsidies surged to $11.6 billion in 2021-22, according to The Australia Institute. Indonesia is the world’s largest thermal coal exporter, with NSW number two. The Indonesian government in April 2022 raised its royalty rate for coal miners from a single tariff of 13.5% to a range of 14% to 28% dependent on coal benchmark prices. This does beg the question of why the Queensland Treasurer didn’t also address the fossil gas cartel’s gouging of eastern Australians by exporting the vast majority of our domestic gas production for a measly $1.2bn FY2022 LNG royalty on some A$23bn of east coast LNG exports. The balance of the $70 billion Australian LNG export total delivered just $1.7 billion in FY2022 to the federal government, showing a retrospective revamp of the Petroleum Rent Resources Tax (PRRT) is also entirely overdue. NSW’s coal export royalty flat rate of just 7-8% is a tiny fraction of the 27% Queensland will get at today’s unprecedented hyperinflated prices. If sustained for a year, the difference in NSW coal royalties is a staggering cost to NSW taxpayers of $10-20 billion annually for a private, foreign tax haven-based gain using public assets. This is extraordinary by any measure. What did the NSW coal industry do to be rolling in this unprecedented manna from heaven? Beyond supercharging the “1-in-500 year” but now frequently recurring Lismore floods, and locking in regulatory approval for many of Australia’s 100 new or expanded fossil fuel projects,

and leaving us with a coal power fleet unable to source coal at a remotely acceptable cost for Origin Energy’s Eraring and EnergyAustralia’s Mt Piper coal-fired power plants – nothing. Absolutely nothing. This is war-profiteering. It should be super-taxed to offset the surging energy bills NSW taxpayers are facing across every purchase of petrol, fossil gas and our super high emissions electricity. The NSW Minerals Council has served its foreign tax haven based billionaires supremely, including the Chinese Yancoal, tax haven based Peabody Energy and ex-National Party Leader Mark Vaile-led Whitehaven Coal. And let’s not forget Glencore, which this week has again pleaded guilty to UK’s Serious Fraud Office for corruption and bribery, following their US$1.1bn fine and guilty plea to corruption and market manipulation in the US. Surely nothing to see here in Australia from our biggest multinational fossil fuel firm?

There has never been a more urgent need for federal government action to serve the people of Australia and end the era of regulatory capture under the lost decade of federal LNP government, authors of the infamous ‘gaslit recovery’ scam. This week’s contrasting state budgets in our two preeminent coal export states demonstrate incontrovertibly that it is time for federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers to back a Carbon Export Windfall Tax. NSW’s loss can and should become the Australian people’s gain. And while we are talking of windfall gains and war profiteering, after 60 years of mining industry subsidies, it is time to cap the diesel fuel rebate at say $50m per tax haven based firm per year. Josh Frydenberg’s March budget revealed just this one mining subsidy costs Australians $7-9 billion annually, whilst undermining Australia’s energy security by delaying the shift from expensive imported high emissions diesel to domestic zero emissions electric vehicles. Given iron ore and coal profit margins of well over 80% at current prices, our billionaires and tax haven based multinationals can afford to pay the same level of tax on their fuel that 25 millions Australians have been paying for the last six decades. At a time of Australian fiscal crisis, the mining industry should be made to share just a skerrick or two of their hundred billion dollars of annual windfall profits.

Maybe even WA should consider making their iron ore royalties progressive, not withstanding the inevitable IPA backlash!

Source: reneweconomy

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ELECTRIC VEHICLE

SWITCH INDIA LAUNCHES NEXT-GENERATION ELECTRIC BUS PLATFORM – SWITCH EIV 12 • Features customer-centric offerings on technology and passenger comfort, while being contemporary and futuristic • Available in two variants – EiV 12 low floor and EiV 12 standard • To address widest range of applications – intra-city, inter-city, staff, school and tarmac • Equipped with advanced lithium-ion NMC chemistry, offering range up to 300 kms with single charge, and up to 500 kms with dual gun fast charging • Electric drivetrains and batteries calibrated to ensure superior efficiency with long battery life, delivering lower total cost of ownership • Embedded with ‘Switch iON’, proprietary, connected technology solutions

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Switch Mobility Ltd (‘Switch’), the next-generation carbon neutral electric bus and light commercial vehicle company, launched its state-of-the-art electric bus platform ‘SWITCH EiV 12’ for the Indian market.

This next-generation E-Bus, backed by over 10 years of EV expertise, will address the growing bus segment in India. Available in two variants – EiV 12 low floor and EiV 12 standard, these proficient buses offer the best in reliability, range and comfort. The company currently has an order book of over 600 buses. SWITCH EiV 12 features customercentric offerings on technology and passenger comfort, while being contemporary and futuristic. EiV 12 delivers exceptional drive performance and efficiency, and is embedded with proprietary, connected technology solutions, ‘Switch iON’, enabling remote, real-time diagnostics and monitoring services, as well as world-class digital battery management tools. The EV architecture of EiV platform is common with the recently launched European Switch e1 bus.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Dheeraj Hinduja, Chairman, Switch Mobility Ltd., said, “The launch of our next generation electric bus platform in India is an important milestone for Switch Mobility. Our aspiration is to make electric products more accessible in India, UK, Europe and many more Global markets, thereby contributing significantly to the rapidly growing zero carbon mobility sector. With a strong lineage and proven expertise of Hinduja group and Ashok Leyland, in the commercial vehicle market, we are confident that through more such offerings of electric buses and soon to be launched electric light vehicles, we will accelerate our vision to be at the forefront in this evolving market”.

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Mr. Mahesh Babu, Director & CEO – Switch Mobility India, COO – Switch Mobility Ltd, said, “I am pleased to introduce Switch EiV 12 platform in India which is built on the experience of 50 million electric kms globally. The platform has a unique, advanced, global EV architecture to deliver superior efficiency, safety, and reliability. The products on this platform have been designed with cutting-edge technology to deliver delightful customer experience.

I strongly believe that Switch iON connected vehicle platform, offers multiple solutions to our fleet operators, to enhance the business value proposition.

Our team is working actively to bring out multiple products as part of the Switch electric intelligent vehicle platform in the near future’’.

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ELECTRIC VEHICLE The Switch EiV range of buses have been uniquely configured to meet customer requirements of varied applications like intra-city, inter-city, staff, school and tarmac, offering maximum passenger capacity and comfort. The buses are also equipped with a new generation of highly efficient, modular batteries with advanced lithium-ion NMC chemistry, specially formulated for the Indian market and climatic conditions. The modular batteries increase the capacity per battery cell for the same weight, enabling higher range of kilometers – up to 300 kms/day with single charge, and up to 500 kms/day with dual gun fast charging. The electric drivetrains and batteries are calibrated to ensure superior efficiency with long battery life, delivering lower total cost of ownership in the market. Maintenance of this ultramodern E-Bus can be carried out quickly and effortlessly.

The current range of Switch EV buses in India, having an uptime of over 98% consistently through the last few years, is a testimony to our product performance in terms of reliability and durability. The buses have clocked over 8 million kms in India, saving over 5000 tonnes of CO2, equivalent to planting more than 30,000 trees, thus delivering on key strategic milestones in support of the brand’s mission: to enrich lives through green mobility and deliver cleaner, smarter journeys that are accessible to all. Switch India has a dedicated team of 450 employees and manpower is expected to grow over 30% in the next five years.

Source: switchmobility

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ELECTRIC VERHICLE

KARNATAKA CM BOMMAI WANTS CHEAPER

ELECTRIC VEHICLES FOR QUICKER SHIFT TO EVS “The cost of electric vehicles should be affordable for the common man. Then only its usage could see an increase.

The manufacturers should focus more on this aspect,” Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai said as he called upon automobile manufacturers to focus on making affordable electric vehicles to increase their usage. The Chief Minister addressed an audience after inaugurating 152 EV charging stations and ‘EV Campaign 2022,’ organised by Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (BESCOM).

Bommai said the state government has come out with its new EV policy which has made BESCOM the nodal agency to establish charging stations in public places. Battery swapping is another important aspect of EVs and it would be given importance in the coming days, he added. Underlining the need for harnessing renewable energy sources, he said fossil fuels are depleting and are harming the environment.

Stating that EVs play an important role in addressing the shortcomings of fossil-fuel-based vehicles, Bommai said electric two-wheelers are hitting the roads in large numbers and soon electric cars, buses, and even multi-axle trucks would come to the market. “The state government has decided to induct more EV buses into Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC),” Bommai said. Stressing upon more research on alternative energy sources to replace fossil fuels, the Chief Minister pointed out that Karnataka is the largest producer of solar power in the country.

Speaking about hydrogen as fuel, Bommai said his government has signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with two companies for the production of hydrogen fuel as it is seen as the best among the renewable energy sources. He also informed the gathering that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has brought out a policy that raised ethanol blending in oil to 20 percent as part of the overall plan to reduce dependency on fossil fuels.

These initiatives would reduce our import of oil to a great extent in the coming years, Bommai said.

Similarly, an MoU has been signed for the production of ammonia from seawater, said Bommai adding that ammonia is being used extensively in the production of diammonium phosphate (DAP) fertilisers.

To increase the usage of electric vehicles, Karnataka CM Basavaraj Bommai has asked auto manufacturers to focus on making affordable EVs, reports PTI.

Source: PTI 54

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ELECTRIC VEHICLE EXPERTS STRESS THE NEED TO ENSURE 100% RENEWABLE ENERGY

ALONGSIDE ELECTRIC VEHICLES TO TACKLE CLIMATE CRISIS

Environmentalists claim that switching to electric vehicles alone may not solve the issue and that it must be coupled with renewable sources of energy in order to make a difference in the global climate crisis.

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ith the national capital recording a rise in the registration of electric vehicles, some environmentalists raised doubts about whether the transition to EVs will actually help fight the global climate crisis in the long run and said there is an urgent need to opt for renewable energy alongside it. Since electric vehicles rely on regular charging from a local electricity network, it is quite obvious that coal is being used at another source, one of them said. According to official data, there are 1,39,945 registered electric vehicles in Delhi as of March 21, 2022. This year electric vehicles accounted for more than nine percent of all vehicles registered in the national capital, up from nearly three percent in 2018. Though electric vehicles are expected to cut oil consumption and lower carbon dioxide emission, they said it alone will not help fight the global climate crisis. There is an urgent need to ensure 100 percent renewable energy alongside electric vehicles to tackle the climate crisis, Greenpeace India’s Avinash Chanchal said. He told PTI that since the transportation sector is one of the significant contributors to climate change, a paradigm shift in the industry is needed to phase out internal combustion engine cars.

“Changes in transport need to go hand in hand with changes in the wider energy system. We must increase reclamation and recycling in the batteries sector and see much more research and investment in battery technology. We also need to reduce the number of cars on the road and understand that ‘car as a system’ is not good for cities. It is manifesting the increasing social and economic gap in the urban space,” Chanchal said.

He further said that in their Greenpeace India campaign, they have been demanding renewable energy-fuelled electric buses that have great potential not only for reducing CO2 emission but also for improving air quality and noise protection in cities.

Environmentalist Bhavreen Kandhari said that since EVs rely on regular charging from a local electricity network, it is quite obvious that coal is being used at another source. “Fossil fuels are ‘dirty’ and renewables like wind and solar energy and electric vehicles are ‘clean’ – has become a fixture of policy assumptions in developed countries. In that case, questions also arise about where the rare earth metals or minerals required to manufacture EV cars will be mined? How will the dangerous battery pollutants of an EV at end of its life be disposed of?

And from where will additional power come for charging new EVs?” Kandhari asked. Ten-year-old globally recognized climate activist Licypriya Kangujam told PTI that electric vehicles alone will not solve the global climate crisis and that subsidizing and investing in fossil fuels need to be stopped. “We need to replace all the coal power plants and thermal power plants with solar power plants. We need to see more bicycles on the roads instead of more motor vehicles. Planting trees are the ultimate solution to fight climate change besides reducing our emissions,” Kangujam told PTI. She said that the inclusion of climate education must be made mandatory in the school curriculum to fight climate change from the grassroots. “We need climate education to find the climate solution. Children living in this world deserve to have clean air to breathe, clean water to drink, and a clean planet to live,” she said.

Source: PTI

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ELECTRIC VEHICLE

INDO-GERMAN STARTUP NUNAM DEPLOYS AUDI’S USED BATTERIES IN E-RICKSHAWS The startup’s primary goal is to develop ways to use old batteries as second-life power storage systems, thus extending their lives and using resources more efficiently

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ndo-German startup Nunam has deployed the luxury car maker Audi’s e-tron’s used batteries in its e-rickshaws, which are scheduled to hit the Indian roads under a pilot project early next year, a release said. The startup’s primary goal is to develop ways to use old batteries as second-life power storage systems, thus extending their lives and using resources more efficiently, it said. The non-profit startup based in Berlin and Bangalore is funded by the Audi Environmental Foundation and this is the first joint project between the German auto giant and the Audi Environmental Foundation in addition to Nunam, as per the release.

The foundation has been funding Nunam since 2019. The startup has developed three prototypes in collaboration with the training team at Audi’s Neckarsulm site which, in turn, benefits from the intensive intercultural exchange, it said. The batteries have been taken from test vehicles in the Audi e-tron test fleet.

These e-rickshaws are planned to be made available to a non-profit organisation, it said, adding, women in particular will be able to use the all-electric rickshaws to transport their goods to market for sale, all without the need for intermediaries. In addition to the rickshaws intended for road use in India, the trainees at the Neckarsulm site are developing an additional show rickshaw in cooperation with Nunam. “The old batteries are still extremely powerful. When used appropriately, second-life batteries can have a huge impact, helping people in challenging life situations earn an income and gain economic independence everything in a sustainable way,” said Prodip Chatterjee, cofounder, Nunam. Car batteries are designed to last the life of the car. But even after their initial use in a vehicle, they have a lot of power, according to Chatterjee. “For vehicles with lower range and power requirements as well as lower overall weight, they are extremely promising. In our second-life project, we reuse batteries from electric cars in electric vehicles; you might call it electric mobility ‘lite’. In this way, we’re trying to find out how much power the batteries can still provide in this demanding use case,” he emphasised. With a high-energy-density battery and comparatively low vehicle weight, the electric motor doesn’t have to be particularly powerful, since rickshaw drivers in India travel neither fast nor far, as per the release. In a third step, the batteries’ remaining power might be used for stationary applications such as LED lighting, it said. “We want to get everything possible out of each battery before recycling,” said Chatterjee. “Initiatives like the one pioneered by Nunam are needed to find new use cases for e-waste. Not only in India, but worldwide. So Nunam shares its knowledge to motivate more initiatives to develop products with second-life components that can drive the eco-social revolution forward,”

said Rdiger Recknagel, director at Audi Environmental Foundation. A 12-member strong team of trainees under the guidance of Timo Engler, head of automotive engineering/logistics training in Neckarsulm, is playing a key role in development of the show rickshaw, said the release. “The trainees and Nunam are in constant communication with each other we have a dedicated line between Neckarsulm and Bangalore. In building the show rickshaw, our trainees are focusing on range, charging time, and design the result is a rickshaw with Audi’s DNA,” said Engler. In the long term, electric mobility and solar energy can help reduce India’s dependence on fossil fuels such as coal, reduce the huge volume of exhaust emissions on India’s roads and provide people with a reliable power supply, said the release.

Source: psuconnect

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Delivering true value 丨 Higher power, lower LCOE

Shaping the future.

Once again.

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ELECTRIC VEHICLE

CHINA’S FIRST ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING

ROBOT TO BE PUT INTO OPERATION

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ccording to the official introduction, users only need to scan a code with his smartphone to activate the charging process, after which the automated robot will grab an idle charging pile and move it to the top rear of the electric vehicle. The owner can then take the charging gun and plug in their vehicle. Once charging is completed, payment can be made through the smartphone applet and will allow users to settle with digital RMB. With the breakthrough of improving the efficiency of using charging piles, the State Grid Suzhou Power Supply Company has developed a rail-mobile shared flexible charging robot system by using technologies including robotic control and the Internet of Things (IoT), and combining advanced flexible orderly charging control technology.

At the same time, the robot can also realize the flexible and orderly charging in combination with community load, which will help save investment in charging facilities and social resources. Residents are also exempted from the economic investment and the pain of maneuvering around the installation of charging facilities. The whole system adopts a unified operation and maintenance

Recently, China’s first all-electric shared EV charging robot system developed by the State Grid Suzhou Power Supply Company was put into operation in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province. management to ensure safety during charging.

In the next stage, the company will actively carry out the distribution application of the system in older residential areas, public shopping malls and newly built communities.

In order to solve the current problem of charging facilities entering the community, Suzhou issued a document on February 25 this year, requiring all parking spaces in newly-built residential quarters to reserve 100% access conditions for the construction and installation of charging facilities, and charging piles with orderly charging (discharging) functions should be built according to no less than 30% of the total number of parking spaces. Recently, the Suzhou Municipal Government has also set the goal of building 200,000 charging piles by 2025 to meet the charging and battery swap demand of about 380,000 electric vehicles.

Source: pandaily 58

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ELECTRIC VERHICLE

SECOND EDITION OF ICREATE’S ELECTRIC VEHICLE INNOVATION CHALLENGE BEGINS

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Create, or International Centre for Entrepreneurship and Technology, is an autonomous centre of excellence of the state government that helps transform tech-based innovations into successful businesses. EVangelise will be organised in partnership with Startup India and the CII – CoE for Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Start-ups (CII-CIES). The focus will be on identifying the next generation of innovators in the EV sub-components segment, battery safety and EV infrastructure, a release said. “Gujarat has the highest adoption of battery operated twowheelers in the country, which makes it an ideal proposition for industries to invest in EV manufacturing in the state,” said minister of state for industries Jagdish Vishwakarma, while announcing the second edition of the competition. “We are further incentivising the demand side, with double the amount of subsidy on EVs than any other state, on a per kWh basis. iCreate’s EVangelise innovation challenge will help the industry access indigenous technology in this space,” he said. The competition is open to individual innovators, startups, students, researchers and EV enthusiasts. The grand finale will be held in December 2022. “While the EV industry is undergoing a paradigm shift in the country, it is crucial that we identify and address challenges at the sub-component level to smoothly transition our way towards sustainable mobility,” said iCreate C E O Anup a m

EVangelise ’22, the second edition of the iCreate’s electric vehicle innovation challenge carrying the cash prize of Rs 1.12 crore, was announced.

Jalote. He said the challenge this year aims to bring out the spearheads to solve real-world issues that the EV industry is facing globally at a sub-component level. The competition will be in two categories — tech development and manufacturing partnership — and will be based on three themes — vehicle traction, energy storage and infrastructure.

Source: PTI 60

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ENERGY STORAGE

INDIAN BATTERY RECYCLING COMPANY ATTERO WILL INVEST USD 1 BILLION TO BUILD FACTORIES IN THE US, POLAND, AND INDONESIA Indian battery recycling company Attero Recycling (Pvt.) has announced a massive overseas capacity expansion plan that involves setting up factories for processing discarded Li-ion batteries in the US, Poland, and Indonesia over the next five years.

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he plan, which entails an estimated investment of USD 1 billion, was first reported by news agencies including Reuters and Bloomberg on May 31. Attero is currently the largest battery recycling company in India. Nitin Gupta, co-founder and CEO of Attero, confirmed its plan with Reuters in an interview and said that there will be three new plants respectively located in the US state of Ohio, Poland, and Indonesia. If everything goes according to schedule, the plant in Poland will be the first to enter operation by the fourth quarter of 2022, followed by the plant in the US by the third quarter of 2023 and the plant in Indonesia by the first quarter of 2024. Attero’s recycling capacity is currently around 11,000 metric tons per year. The company aims to reach above 300,000 metric tons per year by 2027. Gupta hopes that by then, company will be able to satisfy 15% of global demand for lithium, cobalt, and graphite with recovered materials from discarded batteries. The article on Attero’s capacity expansion plan from website Electrive speculates that Attero’s recycling technology is based on a hydrometallurgical process is much less energy-intensive and much more efficient. However, Gupta did not disclose the actual recycling technology in the interview. Besides discarded Li-ion batteries, Attero also collects and processes other types of e-wastes across hundreds of cities in India. Moreover, the company has built plants in Mexico and Ireland to handle local e-wastes. Re garding investors and financial support, World Bank is among

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the Attero’s backers and has injected capital into the company through IFC. As for Attero’s clients in the battery recycling market, they include Samsung Electronics, Hyundai Motor, Tata Motor, and Maruti Suzuki India.

Glencore also buys recovered metals from Attero and then sell them Tesla. Gupta told Reuters that his company is not only addressing a serious environmental problem but also seeking to become a major participant in the electronics supply chain. Specifically, Attero can supply “green” metals such as nickel, cobalt, and lithium to gigafactories. This, in turn, limits mining activities that tend to cause more pollution and consume more resources such as water. In another interview with news website Tech in Asia, Gupta pointed out that Indonesia was an “obvious choice” for overseas capacity expansion because the country is rich in nickel, but at the same time its government intends to maximize the value of this resource and set up a domestic e-mobility system. Reuters noted that Attero’s competitors include Li-Cycle Holdings and Redwood Materials that are respectively based in Canada and the US. Many manufacturers for batteries and electric cars are also getting involved in battery recycling. For example, CATL’s subsidiary Brunp specializes in battery recycling and is collaborating with German chemical supplier BASF in this field.

Source: energytrend

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HYDROGEN

HYDROGEN AT RISK OF BEING THE GREAT MISSED

OPPORTUNITY OF THE ENERGY TRANSITION Hydrogen Forecast to 2050

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ydrogen has a crucial role in decarbonizing the world’s energy system, but uptake will be too slow. Governments need to make urgent, significant policy interventions, according to a new report by DNV. Høvik, Norway : In Hydrogen Forecast to 2050, DNV predicts the amount of hydrogen in the energy mix will be only 0.5% in 2030 and 5% in 2050. However, to meet the targets of the Paris Agreement, hydrogen uptake would need to triple to meet 15% of energy demand by mid-century. “Hydrogen is essential to decarbonize sectors that cannot be electrified, like aviation, maritime, and high-heat manufacturing and should therefore be prioritized for these sectors,” said Remi Eriksen, Group President and CEO of DNV. “Policies do not match hydrogen’s importance. They will also need to support the scaling of renewable energy generation and carbon capture and storage as crucial elements in producing low-carbon hydrogen.”

According to Hydrogen Forecast to 2050, electricity-based green hydrogen – produced by splitting hydrogen from water using electrolysers – will be the dominant form of production by the middle of the century, accounting for 72% of output. This will require a surplus of renewable energy, to power an electrolyser capacity of 3,100 gigawatts. This is more than twice the total installed generation capacity of solar and wind today. Blue hydrogen – produced from natural gas with emissions captured – has a greater role to play in the shorter term (around 30% of total production in 2030), but its competitiveness will reduce as renewable energy capacity increases and prices drop. Global spend on producing hydrogen for energy purposes from now until 2050 will be USD 6.8tn, with an additional USD 180bn spent on hydrogen pipelines and USD 530bn on building and operating ammonia terminals, according to DNV’s forecasts.

Cost considerations will lead to more than 50% of hydrogen pipelines globally being repurposed from natural gas pipelines,

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as the cost to repur pose pipelines is expected to be just 1035% of new construction costs. Hydrogen will be transported by pipelines up to medium distances within and between countries, but not between continents. Global hydrogen trade will also be limited by the high cost of liquefying hydrogen for ship transport and the low energy density of hydrogen. The hydrogen derivative ammonia, which is more stable and can be more readily transported by ship, will be traded globally. Early uptake of hydrogen will be led by hard-to-abate, high-heat manufacturing processes such as iron and steel production which currently use coal and natural gas.

Hydrogen derivatives, such as ammonia and methanol, are key to decarbonizing heavy transport like shipping and aviation, but these fuels won’t scale until the 2030s according to DNV’s forecasts. Hydrogen will not see uptake in passenger vehicles, and only limited uptake in power generation. Hydrogen for heating of buildings will not scale globally, but will see early uptake in some regions that already have extensive gas infrastructure. “Scaling hydrogen value chains will require managing safety risk and public acceptance, as well as employing policies to make hydrogen projects competitive and bankable. We need to plan at the level of energy systems, enabling societies to embrace the urgent decarbonization opportunities presented by hydrogen,” added Eriksen. significantly by region, heavily influenced by policy. Europe is the forerunner with hydrogen set to take 11% of the energy mix by 2050, as enabling policies both kickstart the scaling of hydrogen production and stimulate end-use. OECD Pacific (hydrogen 8% of energy mix in 2050) and North America (7%) regions also have strategies, targets, and funding pushing the supply-side, but have lower carbonprices and less concrete targets and policies. Greater China (6%) follows on, recently providing more clarity on funding and hydrogen prospects towards 2035, coupled with an expanding national emissions trading scheme. These four regions will together consume two-thirds of global hydrogen demand for energy purposes by 2050.

Source: dnv

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CLIMATE CHANGE

DEVELOPING COUNTRIES’ CLIMATE ACTIONS CONTINGENT ON DELIVERY OF FINANCE,TECH TRANSFER: UNION MIN Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav said ambitious implementation of climate actions by developing countries is contingent on the adequate delivery of climate finance, technology transfer, and other support.

P

articipating in the BRICS high-level meeting on climate change, the minister highlighted the relevance of the forum to jointly address climate change, to explore approaches to accelerate low-carbon and resilient transition, and to achieve sustainable recovery and development. The BRICS high-level meeting was chaired by China’s Minister of Ecology and Environment Huang Runqiu, and attended by environment ministers of BRICS nations, including Brazil, Russia, India and South Africa. Yadav underscored India’s commitment to strong climate action, including the promotion of sustainable lifestyles based on mindful consumption and reduction of waste. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is leading by example by taking several robust steps in the field of renewable energy, sustainable habitats, creation of carbon sinks through additional forest

and tree cover, transition to sustainable transport, e-mobility, mobilising the private sector to make climate commitments, he said. Yadav mentioned how India has progressively continued decoupling economic growth from greenhouse gas emissions.

He added that “ambitious implementation of climate actions by developing countries is contingent on the ambitious and adequate delivery of climate finance, technology transfer, and other implementation support, as mandated by the UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change) and the Paris Agreement”. The minister expressed optimism towards the delivery of climate finance according to the Glasgow decision and Climate Finance Delivery Plan released by the COP 26 presidency. BRICS environment ministers expressed commitment to strengthen collaboration on climate change, and broaden and deepen the contents of cooperation. The countries also agreed to carry out policy exchanges and cooperation in areas of environment and climate change.

Source: PTI

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