Saur Energy Magazine March 2019

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Inside:

Venkatesh Dwivedi Director | EESL

Mahindra Susten's Mobile PV Module Lab

The Sunshine Sector's Gender Challenge

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

SAUR ENERGY I N T E R N A T I O N A L

GROUP EDITOR The renewables sector is supposed to be a 'sunrise' sector PRASANNA SINGH by all accounts. Not only is its impact on the future a key prasanna@meilleurmedia.com theme running across its selling pitch, but also the huge potential for growth and wider connect with consumers.

DIRECTOR MARKETING PRATEEK KAPOOR In that context, the proportion of women in the sector, prateek@meilleurmedia.com at under 15% by all accounts, is truly dissapointing. From the country that gave the world its 'Solar mamas', that EDITOR should be a cause for concern for everyone. Not only MANAS NANDI is it a gender issue, but also an issue of missing insights manas@meilleurmedia.com and inputs from the most critical consumers and beneficiarties of renewable energy.

ASSOCIATE EDITOR As a new age industry, with the privilege of having a MANU TAYAL manu@meilleurmedia.com higher purpose of making the earth a better place for all of us, the renewables industry has a special STAFF WRITER responsibility to fix this gap.

AYUSH VERMA Beyond that, you will find some great interviews editorial@meilleurmedia.com in this issue, covering the government backed EESL, Nokia's play in the energy sector, ISA's MANAGER- MEDIA SOLUTION Mohua Chatterjee on her passion for solar, GIRISH MISHRA girish.mishra@meilleurmedia.com Vikram Solar's CFO on the biggest challenge for manufacturing and more.

And of DESIGN HEAD course, all the news that matters to you, SANDEEP KUMAR with that extra bit of analysis to make you more than just informed about this WEB DEVELOPMENT MANAGER sector. Although this is the last issue of JITENDER KUMAR the financial year 2018-19, based on feedback from readers like you, we WEB PRODUCTION BALVINDER SINGH are beginning with some changes to the magazine from this issue, a SUBSCRIPTIONS process that will continue to ensure KULDEEP GUSAIN the content stays truly relevant for subscription@meilleurmedia.com you. We welcome your feedback Saur Energy International is printed, published, edited and owned by Manas Nandi and at editorial@meilleurmedia.com.

published from 303, 2nd floor, Neelkanth Palace, Plot No- 190, Sant Nagar,East of Kailash, New Delhi- 110065 (INDIA),Printed at Pearl Printers, C-105, Okhla Industrial Area, Phase 1, New Delhi.

Prasanna Singh prasanna@meilleurmedia.com

Editor, Publisher, Printer and Owner make every effort to ensure high quality and accuracy of the content published. However he cannot accept any responsibility for any effects from errors or omissions. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Editor and publisher. The information in the content and advertisement published in the magazine are just for reference of the readers. However, readers are cautioned to make inquiries and take their decision on purchase or investment after consulting experts on the subject. Saur Energy International holds no responsibility for any decision taken by readers on the basis of the information provided herein. Any unauthorised reproduction of Saur Energy International magazine content is strictly forbidden. Subject to Delhi Jurisdiction.

CONTENT PAGE

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VENKATESH DWIVEDI

Director (Projects) Energy Efficiency Services Limited

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30

MOHUA MUKHERJEE

SANTHOSH S NAIR

Program Ambassador Pro-Bono International Solar Alliance (ISA)

Director Energy Segment-Asia | Nokia

The Sunshine Sector’s Gender Challenge

POLICY

08 Cabinet Approves Second Phase of FAME Scheme Energy Efficiency Label for Resi Sector Launched

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MARCH 2019

FM Imposes Anti-Dumping Duty on Malaysia SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL | VOL 3 l ISSUE 07

COVER STORY

16

MARKET

12 India To Add 14-16GW New Wind Capacity By 2023 Deloitte India Proposes Road Map for EVs

CONTENT PAGE

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RAJENDRA KUMAR PARAKH CFO Vikram Solar

SHALINI SINGH

Chief - Corporate Communications & Sustainability | Tata Power

QUALITY CONTROL OF PV PLANTS WITH ON-SITE MOBILE PV MODULES TEST LABORATORY

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5 BIG HURDLES THAT HAVE EMERGED FOR INDIA’S SOLAR POWER PRODUCERS

PROJECTS

FINANCE

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50

DEWA Issues RfQ For 900 MW MbRAM Solar Park

EIB, Santander to GIVE €50MN FOR Energy Efficiency

NLC India Commissions 500 MW Solar Proj in TN

EverSource, NIIF to Invest $330MN in CDC’s Ayana

Nordex Bags Orders in Luxembourg and Italy

Siemens Picks 46% Stake in 200MW Poovani VOL 3 l ISSUE 07 | SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

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MARCH 2019

POLICY UPDATES

CABINET APPROVES SECOND PHASE OF FAME-II SCHEME The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the proposal for the implementation of the Rs 10,000-crore Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles in India Phase II (FAME-II) scheme for promotion of electric and hybrid vehicles in the country.

The scheme with a total outlay of Rs 10000 crores over the period of three years will be implemented with effect from 1st April 2019. This scheme is the expanded version of the present scheme titled ‘FAME I’ which was launched on 1st April 2015, with a total outlay of Rs. 895 crore. The government gave at least 5 extensions before finally coming out with the second phase. India has previously set a target to electrify 25-30% of its vehicles by 2030 and the main objective of the scheme is to encourage faster adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles by way of offering an upfront incentive on the purchase of electric vehicles and also by way of establishing necessary charging infrastructure for EV. Key Highlights: Demand Incentives on operational expenditure mode for electric buses will be delivered through State/city transport corporation (STUs).

In the 3W and 4W segment, incentives will be applicable mainly to vehicles

used for public transport or registered for commercial purposes.

In the e-2Ws segment, the focus will be on private vehicles.

Through the scheme, it is planned to support 10 lakh e-2W, 5 lakhs e-3W, 55000 4Ws, and 7000 Buses.

To encourage advanced technologies, the benefits of incentives, will be extended to only those vehicles which are fitted with an advanced battery like a LithiumIon battery and other new technology batteries.

The scheme proposes for the establishment of charging infrastructure, whereby about 2700 charging stations will be established in metros, other million-plus cities, smart cities and cities of Hilly states across the

country so that there is an availability of at least one charging station in a grid of 3 km x 3 km. Establishment of Charging stations is also proposed on major highways connecting major city clusters.

On such highways, charging stations will be established on both sides of the road at an interval of about 25 km each.

The incentives would be applicable only on vehicles costing less than Rs. 15 lakh. The average price of an electric car in India is now about Rs 10 lakhs.

Cars typically have a battery up to 20 kWh, so the discount under the new scheme would be around Rs 2 lakh. The government also has plans for a Green Cess to discourage new car buyers from buying petrol cars.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY LABEL FOR RESI SECTOR LAUNCHED

08 MARCH 2019

Power Minister R K Singh has launched the energy efficiency label for residential buildings at the Conference of Ministers for Power, New & Renewable Energy of States & Union Territories held at Gurugram.

This programme was developed by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), under the aegis of MOP energy efficiency label programme, for residential buildings. It will provide the information to consumers on the energy efficiency programme standard of the homes to be constructed across India.

This two-day conference, being held on 26th and 27th February 2019, was attended by various Ministers and SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL | VOL 3 l ISSUE 07

Secretaries of the States and Union territories and senior officials of the power & renewable energy sectors as well as public sector undertakings.

During the launch of the event, a schedule on implementation on the energy efficiency label for residential buildings was distributed.

The objective of the labeling programme is to make an instrument over the energy performance of a home which will gradually lead to an effective tool while deciding over the home prices in the future.

It also aims to provide a benchmark to compare one home over the other on the energy efficiency standards so as

to create a consumer-driven market transformation solution for Energy Efficiency in the housing sector.

The proposed labeling program is expected to save a substantial amount of electric energy through various energy efficiency efforts in houses nationwide.

With the implementation of an energy efficiency label for residential buildings, it is estimated to achieve an energy saving of up to 40 percent over the conventional houses with annual savings of 90 BU by 2030.

Besides, the labeling mechanism will reduce energy bills for home buyers.

The likely CO2 emission deduction by 2030 will be 320 MT CO2 annually.

POLICY UPDATES

FM IMPOSES ANTI-DUMPING DUTY ON MALAYSIA The Department of Revenue (DOR) under the Ministry of Finance (FM) has imposed an anti-dumping duty on the import of textured tempered coated and uncoated glass from Malaysia for a period of 5 years.

In January, the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) had issued its final findings for the anti-dumping duty investigation concerning the import of textured tempered coated and uncoated glass from Malaysia. The DGTR had recommended levy of anti-dumping duty of $114.58 (Rs 8,161) /metric ton for a period of five years.

After reviewing the submissions made by the parties and stakeholders, the DGTR noted that tempered solar glass has been exported to India largely by one producer, namely Xinyi Solar, whose exports are evaluated as non-dumped, and the Directorate found their exports to India to not be liable for an antidumping measure. According to the directorate, the domestic industry had suffered a material injury during the injury period and period of investigation. The injury had been due to various factors including imports of tempered solar glass from Malaysia.

“The domestic industry has suffered a material injury on account of price

suppression and undercutting by imports from Malaysia. The financial parameters on profitability and return on investment (RoI) are also noted to be adverse,” read the DGTR statement.

The government has now accepted the final findings of the DGTR and imposed the anti-dumping duty for a period of 5-years. In its official notification, the ministry stated, “the DOR has come to the conclusion that the tempered coated and uncoated glass has been exported to India from Malaysia below their normal values and consequently, the domestic industry has suffered material

injury and that the material injury has been caused by the dumped imports of the tempered glass from Malaysia during the Period of Investigation, and has recommended imposition of definitive anti-dumping duty on imports of the subject goods, originating in, or exported from Malaysia and imported into India, in order to remove injury to the domestic industry for a period of five years from the date of publication of this notification in the Official Gazette.”

The matter came under investigation after Gujarat Borosil filed a petition requesting the imposition of an anti-dumping duty.

PREZ SANCTIONS RS 11,814 CR FOR RTS PROG PHASE-II The President of India has approved the phase-II of grid-connected rooftop solar programme for achieving a cumulative capacity of 40 GW from Rooftop Solar (RTS) projects by 2022 with the total central financial support of Rs 11,814 crore.

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) said in its order for launch of phase-II of grid connected rooftop solar programme for achieving cumulative capacity of 40 GW from Rooftop Solar (RTS) projects by 2022, that, “The sanction of the President of India is hereby accorded for grid connected rooftop solar programme phase-II for achieving cumulative capacity of 40,000 MW from Rooftop Solar (RTS) Projects by the year 2022 with total central financial

support of Rs 11,814 crore including capacity building and service charges to the implementing agencies.”

As per the MNRE order the scheme consists of two components i.e. (i) Component A:Setting up of 4,000 MW of Grid Connected Solar Rooftop plants in residential sector with Central Financial Assistance (CFA). (ii) Component B:- Incentives to Discoms based on achievement for installing additional grid connected rooftop capacity in all sectors over and above the base level, with the incentives being limited to the first additional 18000 MW of rooftop capacity added in the country.

However, achievements above this level will not be eligible for any incentive.

Moreover, the Ministry has also provided

categorization for financial outlay for implementation of Component A and Component B are as follows: Besides, the year-wise funds required for implementation of component A and B are given below (Rs. in Crore): However, the Ministry further added that, the detailed operational guidelines for implementation of the scheme will be issued separately.

Last Month, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has provided its consent for the Phase-II of grid connected rooftop solar programme to achieve the ambitious targets of 40 GW cumulative capacity from Rooftop Solar (RTS) Projects by 2022.

VOL 3 l ISSUE 07 | SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

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MARCH 2019

PROJECT UPDATES

NIT FOR 1800 MW WIND PROJECTS IN INDIA The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has issued tender inviting bids for setting up of 1800 MW ISTS-Connected Wind Power Projects (Tranche-VIII) on a pan India basis.

The detailed Request for Selection (RfS) Document shall be available for downloading by March 29, 2019, onwards on www.tcil-india-electronictender.com.

Recently, amid a host of other tenders being issued by the nodal agency for renewables in the country, the Tranche-VII tender for the development of 1200 MW of ISTS-connected wind power projects in India was issued. SECI’s Tranche-VI Wind Energy Tender, for 1.2 GW, saw a total

of nine developers make bids totaling 2325 MW for the 1200 MW tender.

Softbank promoted SB Energy made the biggest bid for 600 MW, followed by ReNew Power, EDF, and ENEL who bid for 300 MW each, while Engie and Adani made bids for 250 MW each. Continuum and Ecoren made bids for 150 MW and 125 MW each, while Powerica made a 50 MW bid. This tender had a tariff ceiling of Rs 2.85, and while we await exact numbers, our sources confirm that bids are actually lower than the ones received in the Tranche 5 tender, ie, Rs 2.76 and above.

The Tranche 6 tender came at a particularly testing time for SECI and developers, with

bids received in Tranche 1 to 5 stuck due to a change in land policy in Gujarat, a key state for wind developers, besides Tamil Nadu.

With Tranche 6 bidders qualifying for consideration under the revised laws, developers would feel a lot more optimistic about quicker movement in this case, as would a worried SECI. The new policy envisages using government identified wastelands, besides a thrust on hybrid projects. More interestingly, the land would be allotted or leased directly to the winning bidders, and not to a land aggregating agency, as we had reported earlier.

NORDEX BAGS ORDERS IN LUXEMBOURG AND ITALY

REMCL ISSUES 60MW TENDER FOR ROOFTOP PROJECTS

European wind energy major, Nordex group has received its first order from Luxembourg, for a 23 MW project.

The manufacturer will be supplying seven N131/3300 turbines for the “Wincrange” wind farm. The customer is PW34 S.a.r.l., a project development company based in Derenbach. In addition, the Nordex Group has concluded a Premium Service Agreement covering 20 years. Moderate IEC Class IIIa winds prevail at the site in the municipality of Wincrange, in the north of Luxembourg.

The N131/3300 turbine is specifically designed for such low wind speeds. In spite of the high installed capacity, the sound power levels do not exceed 103 dB (A). Furthermore, the turbines are run in the sound-optimized mode to ensure that they are able to operate at this particularly sound-critical location.

Work on laying the cables in the “Wincrange” wind farm has already been completed and foundation construction is due to start in April. Turbine installation is scheduled to begin at the end of 2019, with grid connection planned for February 2020.

Furthermore, the group has achieved another major success in Italy. A project developer has opted for seven N149/4.0-4.5 turbines. A Premium Service Agreement for a period of two years is also part of the contract.

Recently, the company’s German counterpart Senvion secured a 30 MW contract with Renexia for the first offshore wind farm in the Italian Mediterranean Sea. The wind farm will feature ten Senvion 3.0M122 turbines, installed on monopile foundations in a water depth ranging from 3 to 18 meters. The installation and the commissioning will take place in 2019. Moreover, Senvion will provide full maintenance services for a period of 5 years with an extension option of up to 25 years. Senvion has specially adapted its 3.0M122 wind turbines to the particularly challenging offshore environment and developed a customized installation procedure suitable for the nearshore wind farm.

The Railway Energy Management Company (REMCL), a joint venture of the Indian Railways and RITES, has invited bids to set up total capacity of 60.17 MW of rooftop solar PV power projects on the rooftops of offices, buildings, and railway establishments across the zonal railways in India.

The rooftop solar PV projects are to be developed on ‘Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) basis. A single bidder can bid for one or multiple zones, but they must bid for the entire capacity offered for a particular zone.

This project aims to generate and supply power from rooftop solar PV systems under (Public Private Partnership) PPP Model.

The Solar Power Developers (SPD) will be responsible for Design, Engineering, Procurement, Erection (including civil and structural works), Installation, Testing and Commissioning of the solar PV system(s) including Operation and Maintenance (O&M) of the system(s) for a period of 25 years after commissioning of project(s).

The SPD will also supply power to Zonal Railways based on a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). The last date of bid submission is April 30, 2019. The bids will be opened on the same date. All bidders must submit an Earnest Money Deposit of Rs 12 lakhs per MW along with their bids. To be eligible, the bidder shall, over the past 3 financial years preceding the bid due date, have paid for, or received payments for successful commissioning of at least 100 kWp at a single location for a minimum value of 35% of the offered capacity. And, the total contract amount received or paid at the same time as per duly certified audited annual financial statements should be a minimum of 150% of the estimated project cost. In January, in a bid to become a net-green transporter, the Indian Railways announced that it is planning to replace 4,000 MW of coal-fired electricity to run its trains with solar energy from modules deployed on both sides of the selected electrified tracks in 10 states.

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MARCH 2019

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL | VOL 3 l ISSUE 07

PROJECT UPDATES

DEWA ISSUES RFQ FOR 900 MW MBRAM SOLAR PARK The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has issued a Request for Qualification (RFQ) for developers to build and operate the fifth phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum (MbRAM) Solar Park, with a capacity of 900MW. The fifth phase of the project will use photovoltaic solar panels based on the Independent Power Project (IPP) model and it will be commissioned in stages starting from Q2 of 2021. The move supports the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 to provide 75% of Dubai’s total power output from clean energy.

The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park is the largest single-site strategic solar park of its kind in the world. And is expected to generate 5,000 MW of solar energy by 2030 with investments worth AED 50 billion (Rs 961 Billion). Through its projects, the park will accelerate Dubai’s shift towards solar power.

The 13MW photovoltaic first phase became operational in 2013 using photovoltaic solar panels. The 200MW photovoltaic second phase of the solar park was operational in March 2017. The 800MW photovoltaic third phase will be operational by 2020.

The fourth phase of the solar park is the

largest single-site Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) project in the world based on the IPP model, with a total investment of AED 16 billion. The fourth phase of the 950MW hybrid power plant will use three technologies: 600MW from a parabolic basin complex, 100MW from a solar tower, and 250MW from photovoltaic panels.

The project will feature the tallest solar

tower in the world at 260 metres and the largest thermal storage capacity of 15 hours; generating power around the clock.

“We are committed to completing the phases of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park to the highest international standards with the latest solar power technologies.

NLC INDIA COMMISSIONS 500 MW SOLAR PROJ IN TN NLC India, state-owned mining and power generating company, has commissioned its 500 MW solar power projects in Tamil Nadu.

“The balance 200 MW of solar PV power projects, out of 500 MW solar PV power projects which were under implementation in the state of Tamil Nadu, has been commissioned,” the company said in a filing to BSE. “With this, the entire 500 MW solar power projects in the state of Tamil Nadu have been commissioned,” the filing added.

The filing further added that the company had moved from being only a lignite mining and power generation company to becoming an energy firm.

In July 2018, The Union Minister for railways, coal, finance & company affairs, Piyush

Goyal had inaugurated the Rs 1,302 crore worth of Neyveli Lignite Corporation India Ltd (NLCIL)’s three 100 MW solar power projects for commercial operation in Tamil Nadu.

The projects are located at Thoppalaakkarai and Sethupuram in Virudhunagar district and Sellaiya Sezhiyanallur in Tirunelveli district of the state. And, the power produced from these plants will be provided to Tamil Nadu Power Generation and Distribution Company (TANGEDCO) at a cost of Rs 4.41 per unit.

In January, NLC India (NLCIL), state-owned mining and power generating company, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Tamil Nadu government to develop 2,640 MW

of lignite-based thermal power projects and 1,000 MW of solar energy projects in the state.

NLC India through the MoU will invest close to Rs 23,800 crore in the state. The investment will include setting up of lignite mines with a capacity of 15.5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), a 2,640 MW lignite-based thermal power project, and a 1,000 MW solar PV project in the state.

The MoU was signed between NLCIL and the Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation (TANGEDCO) on behalf of Tamil Nadu Government. As per which, the Tamil Nadu government has agreed to provide facilitation and support to NLC India in the form of necessary infrastructural support for setting up these projects.

VOL 3 l ISSUE 07 | SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

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MARCH 2019

MARKET UPDATES

INDIA TO ADD 14-16GW NEW WIND CAPACITY BY 2023 According to numbers recently furnished in a report, India is likely to add 14-16 GW of new wind energy capacity over the next five years (2019-23) at an estimated investment cost of Rs 1100 billion (1.1 lakh crore).

Research and rating agency CRISIL has revealed in its, “Execution Headwinds - Viability and Implementation Risk Constrain Outlook For Wind Sector” report that it expects capacity addition to grow slowly over the next five years, driven by the allotment of central transmission utility’s (CTU) grid-connected capacities.

“The shift to a competitive bidding mechanism has slowed industry growth due to a significant fall in tariffs, triggering a decline in both bid response and profitability for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs),” stated the report.

Capacity additions will primarily be driven by central government (SECI) allocations with relatively stronger counter-parties like Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) and PTC, reducing risk as compared to direct exposure to state discoms. State auctions, on the other hand, have slowed as several states have signed power supply agreements (PSAs) with PTC and SECI to procure wind power under the schemes auctioned by them, to help fulfill their non-solar renewable purchase obligations (RPO) targets. “A shift to a competitive bidding mechanism in the wind energy sector has caused a slowdown in capacity addition as participants are yet to adjust, with tariffs having fallen to Rs 2.4-2.6 per unit, from Rs 4.0-4.5 per unit

under the feed-in-tariff regime. Such low realisations remain unviable for the entire value chain at current capital costs of Rs 6.8-7.2 crore per MW,” the report added.

Further, the report adds, that fiscal 2019 is expected to continue to see a slowdown in capacity additions as, despite tendering and auctioning occurring in spurts through the fiscal, most of the capacity is expected to come online only between end-fiscal 2019 and fiscal 2021. Thus, capacity pipelines are presently bunched up over those years with a weak outlook thereafter due to incremental challenges to execution.

DELOITTE INDIA PROPOSES ROAD MAP FOR EVS

12

MARCH 2019

Professional services and consultancy firm Deloitte India has suggested a road map showcasing the ways through which the country can achieve its ambitious targets for e-mobility.

India’s pledge to reduce carbon emission by 33 to 35 percent until 2030 solicits emerging automotive technologies and alternative fuel, especially in the transportation sector.

With rapid urbanisation and rising travel demand, green mobility is the way forward. Bringing electric mobility in public transport systems to homogenise efficiency, reduce pollution, and minimise congestion.

The report highlighted the potential business models required for mainstreaming electric mobility in the country. It identified potential business models to integrate electric vehicles (EVs) into the country’s transport system; synergising stakeholders to select an optimal deployment model.

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL | VOL 3 l ISSUE 07

It also highlighted the need for a seamless collaboration among various stakeholders, such as government, manufacturers, vehicle aggregators, power utilities, and energy suppliers, to integrate EVs in the current transportation system.

The report also analyses the coexistence of partnerships by enhancing first and last mile connectivity and providing integrated mobility solutions through e-rickshaws. It

also emphasizes the need for promoting public charging infrastructure to increase usage of electric vehicles and enhance interoperability.

Commenting on the report, Vishwas Udgirkar, Partner, Deloitte India, said, “Integrated efforts in a unified direction are important for sustainable and smart electric mobility. The aim should be to bring synergy amongst players involved in electric mobility, encourage innovation, leverage private sector expertise, enhance governance, and distribute risk among players with risk-bearing capacities.”

On the challenges front, Udgirkar further added that, “Urban transport in India is facing a challenge, and comprehensive logistics framework for favorable EV ecosystem in the country is the only way to address this. EV integration will not only transform the mobility pattern but will also create opportunities to redistribute responsibilities within the ecosystem.”

OPED

5 BIG HURDLES THAT HAVE EMERGED FOR INDIA’S SOLAR POWER PRODUCERS

14

MARCH 2019

After installations of almost 10 GW and above in 2017 and close to 8 GW in 2018, the solar sector is facing its biggest challenge yet, as hurdles have emerged for the continued growth of the sector.

Some of these challenges were always there, they are only bigger now, while others have emerged with time. The signs have been clear. Thus, while there were barely any cancellations in 2017, 2018 saw a plethora of cancellations due to ‘high prices’ or inadequate bidders. So just what are these challenges? We list them in no order of priority.

1. The Discoms: The state distribution firms, or discoms as they are collectively called, have been the biggest cause for worry. As the ultimate customers for solar power producers, their financial situation continues to be dire in most cases, and they have managed to make the collective power sector a fragile sector. with total outstandings crossing Rs 35,000 crores, solar developers also face the brunt of payment delays and worse. Most importantly, with the majority of renewable power being produced by private sector, their financing cost and access to funding itself is much more higher and limited, as compared to state producers like NTPC etc. It would be fair to say that behind almost every challenge today, the state of the discoms is a factor.

2. Land trips up solar too: With almost 5 acres of land needed for every MW of solar power produced, state land policies and access to the same was always going to be a challenge. It seems that the low hanging fruit, in the form of land acquisition is fast nearing an end. Gujarat is an extreme case of the consequences, where developers are actually changing plans due to the state’s policy change on land. But expect land costs to only go up, especially in South India, as pressure mounts. Add to that, transmission challenges, and you have a recipe for a much higher risk profile for new projects.

3. Costs and profits: If 2017 made India a global hotspot for solar development, 2018 was a year to sober up. Developers SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL | VOL 3 l ISSUE 07

who rushed in to bid at low prices all the way to mid 2018, are finding it increasingly harder to squeeze out profits on their bids, going by most industry insiders. Volatility in exchange rate movements, and bets on a one way movement (down) on panel costs have also not come true fully, limiting their ability to continue bidding.

Thus, while some developers established a foothold by way of a few projects, they seem to be holding out for more clarity on long term policy, especially when it comes to domestic sourcing.

4. Policy: As long as the sector continues to depend on government policy, we believe it will never quite thrive as it should. However, with the power sector being so critical to the government and consumers, the policy overhang is set to remain.

It is clear that the industry need to see some big bang reforms in the broader power sector to see benefits percolate down to it. The corporate solar market offers some hope,as intra state trading and buying could become easier.

Rooftop solar is the only silver lining here, offering an opportunity to continue growing with more freedom on pricing and quality. However, even there, it is the state level policies that have failed to deliver, making growth a real challenge. Another possible way out

is to literally go out of the country and apply their skills in other markets for better margins. Most new markets offer better margins for the quality developer, and opportunities there are set to explode in the next two years, much like India during 2015-18.

5. Finally, the complete disconnect between producers and manufacturers.

With the government intent on pushing manufacturing in India, there has rarely been a bigger disconnect between producers and manufacturers. Most solar producers are not in favour of manufacturing, as they believe India has fallen too far behind China, and Solar manufacturing is a lost case.

Manufacturers on the other hand continue to make a case for a base in the country too, considering the long term demand and opportunity to create jobs and more in this strategic sector.

As of now, the government has tried to balance the interests of both, and predictably, pleased none.

The safeguard duty has lead to barely any positive outcome, while adding enough uncertainty to cause a clear slowdown in fresh capacity additions.

Let’s hope the year 2019 will clear the air for all stakeholders in the system.

-PRASANNA@MEILLEURMEDIA.COM n

COVER STORY

The Sunshine Sector’s

Gender Challenge

Why the solar sector needs to have more women

Dr Megha Pushpendra Lead Strategic Communication, International Solar Alliance (ISA)

Mirunalini Venkatagiri Chellappan Director Swelect Energy Systems

Rajashri Nagarkar General Manager's Operation Meyer Burger India Pvt Ltd

Kelly Mermuys Country Manager 3E India and Sales Director Bazefield

Priyanka Mohan Managing Director Kor Energy

Neha Agrawal Head of Corporate Strategy & Rooftop Business, Vikram Solar

Deepika Mathur Director Sales and Marketing Solis Solar LLP

Sweety Arya Marketing Manager India Solis Ginlong Technologie

COVER STORY

A

s yet another International Women’s Day (IWD) came around on 8th March this year, the theme this year was ‘Balance for Better’- A balanced world is a better world. That got us thinking about the solar sector in India.

The many industry conferences with their rare women speakers had of course indicated as such, but the reality of women’s participation in the solar sector is truly disappointing.

Perhaps that is one reason why there are already multiple organisations working to improve women’s participation in the sector, Women in Solar Energy (WISE), Women of Renewable Industries and Sustainable Energy (WRISE), Women in Cleantech and Sustainability (WCS), Women in Energy, Women's Council on Energy and the Environment (WCEE), India’s Barefoot College for ‘Solar Mamas’ etc.

There is absolutely no doubt that as a young industry making giant strides in terms of growth and impact on society today, the solar sector needs to focus more than ever on its internal policies and attractiveness with respect to women too. It’s clearly an area that needs a lot of work, going by the small minority women still form, when it comes to leadership or the broader workforce. But let’s shift focus on some of those who are actually inside, working, and making a big difference. We bring to you their experiences in the solar sector, the opportunities as they see for them, and how overall participation of women can be increased. Besides of course, how they manage their work life balance! In order to make no mistake, the sector needs to have a better balance when it comes to the fairer sex, as it moves from a commodified, government policy driven sector to one that stands without subsidies, makes a case directly to its end consumer, and hopes to be adopted for its contribution to saving the environment too. The end consumer will increasingly be a woman too, and something tells us, the industry will understand her only when we have more women inside too.

We spoke to solar industry women veterans – Dr Megha Pushpendra, Lead Strategic Communication, International Solar Alliance (ISA); Mirunalini Venkatagiri Chellappan, Director, Swelect Energy Systems; Rajashri Nagarkar, General Manager's Operation, Meyer Burger India Pvt Ltd; Kelly Mermuys, Country Manager 3E India and Sales Director Bazefield; Priyanka Mohan, Managing Director, Kor Energy; Neha Agrawal, Head of Corporate Strategy & Rooftop Business, Vikram Solar; Deepika Mathur, Director Sales and Marketing, Solis Solar LLP; and Sweety Arya, Marketing Manager India, Solis Ginlong Technologie. Here’re their responses...

What prompted you to come into the Renewable sector? time) in 2008, the solar division was just setup and I started Dr Megha Pushpendra

out as a Product Engineer responsible for developing Solar Chargers. From thereon, Solar and Renewables have been my passion and continues to be my core interest.

The paradigm of global intent to take an ‘economically sensible and good for every one in every way’ nature of the subject Rajashri Nagarkar did. There is a famous saying that what you are seeking is seeking you. If solace was the word, I used to find it in writing a I was working with ABB earlier and then have been asked strategically right statement. Finding right cause to write such to shift to Bangalore for work. At the same time I have been a statement was my soul search. Both the things converged called for interview in PV sector and I found it’s interesting. and I started making my headway in this sector. Today, as Strategic Communication lead for ISA - I get to interact with Kelly Mermuys global audiences, stakeholders, industry, academia and After graduating as a bioscience engineer in Belgium, I cut beneficiaries at an elevated pitch. my teeth in a variety of renewable energy projects focused Mirunalini V C primarily on biomass, solar and wind energy. Thanks to my fascination for the sector and my natural curiosity, I built My interest in Renewable Energy Sector started out even up my expertise and gained valuable knowledge about before my career started. I always thought every one of us the field. Simultaneously I also developed a drive to work is responsible to make the world a clean and green place. towards a more sustainable future for us all - and renewable It so happened that my mentor and guide during Master’s energy of course plays a significant role here. During the was also thinking in the same lines and guided me to do my last decade of my career, I worked in a number of roles Master’s Thesis on Fuel Cell Based UPS and explore ideas in as I continued on my journey, but it’s definitely in India Renewable Energy Space. Moreover, during my Master’s my where I live and work now - that I became aware of the dad and I used to discuss a lot of ideas on what can be done global impact that can be realised by putting more efforts in the solar field and the potential that was ahead of us. After into renewable energy. The potential of India in renewable graduation, when I joined Swelect (known as Numeric at that energy is gigantic!

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Priyanka Mohan

Do share your experiences in the solar industry that makes it attractive for women in terms of opportunities.

Renewable Energy Specially Solar Energy is a need for today’s India. Lot of opportunity is there in both Private as Dr Megha Pushpendra well as Government Sector in rooftop solar market in India.

There is a need for professional EPC Players to cater to Mid The sector is relatively younger than other sectors, so there is size segment. We felt an opportunity there and entered in so much to leave your impression on, if you have the caliber to do. this market.

For me, working with multilateral institutions like; the World Neha Agrawal Bank, IFC, PWC and MNRE, GoI was the high point when I was trying to pick up ends right at the beginning. Climate change From the very beginning of my career, I wanted to make and working for sustainable development any ways gives you a meaningful contribution to my organization and by sense of oneness with global community. Then, this sector extension, the national and global community. The thought gives you chance to show yourself on international platforms had always driven me throughout my career, so when more than perhaps any other sector can. I represented ISA in I found the opportunity to work with Vikram Solar, I felt Paris Peace Forum this November, where more than 48 state that the choice I was looking for was right in front of me. heads gathered to commemorate the spirit of multilateralism.

Humungous potential of the sector, rising global support, and its incredible growth within the country had also enticed Rajashri Nagarkar me to step into the sector.

Although, our nation and the world have made incredible Actually my core strength is SAP and I join MeyerBurger for SAP strides by harnessing conventional fossil fuel based energy, implementation.But when I joined and gone through product its depleting reserves, negative effects on the climate training I was very much impressed with PV technology and and growing population highlighted the need for a more studied in details. Visited Install base, customers and its very interesting technology. There is not much awareness of this sustainable energy source.

Working with Vikram Solar enabled me to pursue a cause industry also its volatile industry so lots of uncertainties are for better future and life for the generations to come found. If we bring in policies which are more supportive then through promoting clean and green energy. Being able to there are good chances that women can join. serve and give back to the nation and the world through supporting Green energy transition appeared the right Kelly Mermuys path for me to walk in.

Currently, I work for 3E and Bazefield, that develop a software Sweety Arya platform that enables solar and wind farm operators to monitor and improve the performance of their assets. I’m in charge It's an honour and a privilege to be part of renewable of rolling out the software platform, named SynaptiQ and sector, there are so many reasons that drawn me to the made in the EU, for the portfolio management of wind and solar industry, one of them is love for the ‘Mother Nature’ solar farms across India. and renewable sector is literally a natural gift.

Doing this requires excellent communication skills that need Ginlong Solis fortunately gives me the chance to contribute to be used across different time zones and regions, a can-do to my nature. Sunlight, being the most abundant source of attitude and a proficiency in planning. This is where I personally energy on earth, is providing a way for mankind to generate believe female leadership comes in handy, because it is electricity and hence bring about more job opportunities characterised by empathy and the ability to listen. It’s also with great benefits on an individual and international level. crucial to keep the entire team focused on the project goals, So, who wouldn’t want to work in an industry that provides because those are the ones that will have an impact on the so many beneficial factors. planet. So it matters to do this together as a team. We create an impact together and make it happen!

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We were active into supplying raw material to various companies which were entering into Solar in year 2007-2008.

Looking at the potential and impact it can make not only to the society but also, if I think from the point of view of business, we were sure to explore and succeed in this sector as this sector promises Really Bright Opportunities.

Today we are doing Domestic as well as International projects and we proudly say that we have achieved this success because of persistence and unmoved focus on our goals.

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Mirunalini V C I truly believe being a woman need not be a limiting factor to enter any field. I did a short internship in Schlumberger and I have seen women playing an equal role in off shore projects. There was no differentiation on recruitment between men or women.

The skill and the tenacity was what mattered. Similarly, I have been involved in various segments of Solar Sector - As a product engineer, as a project design engineer, as a project manager located in project sites for 3-4 months (which was brutal), currently as solar module division head and handling certain energy sale

COVER STORY

projects. Having seen various segments in Solar, I see a huge What will get more women to join the sector? potential for women to be in any role they would be willing to be in, what matters is primarily the interest, eagerness to learn, and Dr Megha Pushpendra the perseverance to be in the sector.

Ground Activation! Sensible outcome oriented dialogue!

Priyanka Mohan Interventions at multiple levels in different strata of society simultaneously so that a self sustaining mechanism can be Clients usually are very much impressed when they see developed, and last but not the least-a reliable trajectory in professional women in technical field and understanding and career – competent with their men counterparts anywhere else. explaining technical aspects. Most clients feel women better understand their problems and comes up with right solutions. Mirunalini V C

Neha Agrawal

The best way to encourage more women to get into Solar would be to start the awareness and education from school and college itself. Also, the company’s and the candidate’s willingness to be open to take roles other than in back office or behind the desk must be inculcated. There a great number of avenues available for women in Solar in terms, product development, IOT in Solar, digitising energy, projects, design engineering, marketing, project management etc. The main key factors are passion and determination.

Having a purpose (that is championed by all) to drive your career is the best opportunity one can get. Modern women have made their mark in the world’s leading industries through dedication and excellence. Solar being the most lucrative sector in India and probably the world, I believe it is time for us to step in and take responsibility of world’s future, securing growth and sustainability. Areas of solar where job potentials are high are- Sales, Engineering, non-technical, Legal, Finance, IT, and each of these areas have multiple departments like- Rajashri Nagarkar EPC, manufacturing, O&M, requiring skilled individuals. So, it would be fair to state that with more opportunities, the chances They should include some syllabus from beginning of schooling of growing, learning, and succeeding within solar industry so that awareness should be there. This might create more increases incredibly. I have personally experienced how a interest and awareness. growing sector can give a leg up to employees’ knowledge and career trajectory. Solar sector is waiting for you to set new Kelly Mermuys rules, new business benchmarks, new success stories that will I think there are plenty of intelligent women with self-confidence lead you to your career goal faster than any other industry. that can take on any job she is passionate about. Perhaps Deepika Mathur it’s not the industry as much as the women themselves that require a mindset shift.

I have had my share of ups and downs and all the experiences have taught me to be better than my own previous version. It Priyanka Mohan may sound philosophical, but as you achieve one goal and conquer next height, you are more motivated to achieve the Women should be encouraged to take up Renewable toughest target, which lies ahead. No doubt, being a woman, Energy as career as this offers them good career as well as I have to work extra to prove my worth but once you put a firm job satisfaction. Apart from having good career they will be foot, people accept you and welcome you. You just have to be better contributing to society. logical and focused. I am taking care of Sales and Marketing and this demands a lot of patience, knowledge of industry and Neha Agrawal exposure to multicultural working setup. Be open to accept challenge and criticism with cool composure. It really helps Women participation in industries within India and the world has grown substantially over the years. However, we must point you to grow as a strong leader. out that India ranked quite low(120th) among 131 countries in Sweety Arya female work force participation.

In such a scenario, focusing on solar can benefit India and I have a fantastic experience in this industry. Women have a provide country’s women workforce an opportunity. Solar can considerable opportunity to make careers in solar industry and be considered to be the perfect opportunity that promises join in on the highly skilled, well-paying solar jobs. ‘Solar mamas’ to create huge number of jobs (10 Lakh jobs to be created power up women’s development, C’mon, gals — join it, jump within 2022) in India. This sector has multiple, technical and on it - don't clip your wings. It’s a high time to join this industry. non-technical areas where women can excel. Especially, work The industry is young enough and hungry for talented people, force is extensively required in rural areas where most of the there is an opportunity to change the dynamic at the beginning large scale utility projects are being installed. There, solar can before we have as many walls and ceilings to smash through provide steady jobs, uplifting lives of women. later.

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prospect of the sector, lack of training institutions, and social Rajashri Nagarkar barrier of women working in the energy/manufacturing sector are still creating challenges for women to take up jobs in solar. I have support system at home. I ensure to spend quality Providing more exposure to different job areas in solar, time hour a day with kiddos. Keep communication with them establishing more institutes and offering technical and non- throughout the day. Plan my week in advance. Ensure not to technical job trainings extensively, and encouraging women travel during exams of kids. My husband is also very supportive socially to pursue a career in cities and in rural areas can help and with his help it’s easier to balance. the country see growth in women workforce in solar.

Sweety Arya

Kelly Mermuys

I think personally that work-life is easier to balance in India than I think training institutes and civil society organisations should in Europe. In India you can get so much affordable support for collaborate and strengthen connections with clean energy household and family matters. A working woman in India can enterprises to help trained women secure employment. This dedicate a lot of energy to her career without jeopardising sensitisation to women’s specific needs can help increase her family life. participation of women in the RE workforce. And, if the public and private sectors come together to bring such jobs to Priyanka Mohan women, particularly in poorer communities, India’s transition to clean energy could also improve the quality of life for This is the most difficult for woman to maintain work life balance and this is only achieved by proper time planning and supportive women and their families. family as well as colleagues.

Deepika Mathur

Encourage your female force to put their ideas into actions.

Be more receptive. Industry must accept that knowledge and talent has no gender. Logical reasoning and good ideas should be welcomed, no matter who takes it forward/ initiate.

Now a days industry acknowledges the efforts put by female employees to achieve goals and targets and I have seen many female leaders in this industry doing really good job.

Do you feel the sector is any different when it comes to finding a work life balance for a woman who has to manage work and family life?

Dr Megha Pushpendra Well, in today’s context it is true for all in the family. All four of us me my spouse our son and our daughter- try and do this trapeze walk. It is not just me – there are four balancing acts that are managed simultaneously to keep the square peg square!!

Mirunalini V C

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Neha Agrawal For me, working in Vikram Solar is working for my extended family. Hence, balancing doesn’t remain as a requirement anymore. The organisation is quite sensible of employee sentiments. As much as we contribute to the growth of the organisation, the leadership ensures we have happy and fulfilled family life, whether it is through extending any kind of household support, keeping in mind the families for all major events, providing time flexibility for any personal commitments, forced annual holidays with family. With all these benefits and a keen understanding from the family, balancing work and personal life is no more a challenge.

Deepika Mathur It’s a difficult task but not impossible. Having a supportive family and spouse make a big difference. Being a mother, I have priorities to look after kids and I make sure that I give enough time to them and be available whenever they need me. I don’t bring office at home. Making a schedule of everyday tasks also helps to reduce stress and balance work-home life.

Well, to be honest there is truly no such thing a balance of Sweety Arya work and family. I have a 4 year old kid and there are certain compromises to be made on both fronts. A great deal of Girls have power to change the world, and I believe that it’s support is required both at home and work to achieve a important to have your priorities in order — both personal and sense of balance which varies from person to person. For me, professional life , if you want to be a successful working woman, I have tremendous support from my family and the flexibility you have to draw a line between personal and professional and understanding from my colleagues at work. The main work and learn to say “NO” to things that don’t align with your driver to achieve this balance has been the passion that I priorities. It is the biggest mantra to successfully juggle both have towards work without which it is easy to give up. The personal and professional life because “It’s not a one-size-fits-all”. key to manage both is to stay organised. I usually set aside Nothing can dim the light that shines from sun and Nothing an hour every Sunday to plan my week, prioritise the tasks, can dim the light that shines from women power. delegate quite a bit and at the same time ensuring that I -MANU@MEILLEURMEDIA.COM n allocate specific time for family.

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THE CONVERSATION

VENKATESH DWIVEDI

Director (Projects), Energy Efficiency Services Limited EESL WORKING TOWARDS REMOVING VARIOUS HURDLES TO FACILITATE E-MOBILITY GROWTH

EESL has been working towards removing various hurdles to facilitate the growth of electric mobility in the country. With our approach of demand aggregation and bulk procurement, we have been able to contribute to addressing significant challenges like low demand, the high upfront cost of adoption, and so on, said Venkatesh Dwivedi, Director (Projects), Energy Efficiency Services Limited, a government-owned energy efficient solutions provider and South Asia's first and foremost energy efficiency leader. In conversation with Manu Tayal, Associate Editor, Saur Energy International, Dwivedi shared his views on various topics which the power sector is currently dealing with along with the company’s roadmap for the energy efficiency.

Following are the excerpts from that exclusive interview.

Q

Recently, EESL launched superefficient ACs with 40% higher efficiency than the current 3-star ACs. Will we see the offer taken to other markets beyond Delhi?

With this launch, EESL will create a roadmap for other municipalities to emulate, which will bring substantial benefit to the nation and strengthen government’s India Cooling Action Plan (ICAP). We are initiating this pilot in association with BSES Rajdhani. We are keen to take this programme across India and we are already speaking with other ULBs and DISCOMs to join us.

Q

How much can energy efficiency help India in achieving its commitment towards COP-21 Paris Agreement?

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Energy efficiency is one of the most environmentally sustainable pathways to meet India’s Paris Agreement commitment of reducing carbon intensity by 33-35 percent by 2030 from 2005 level, while also significantly contributing to energy security.

Energy cost reduction, decarbonization and air pollution mitigation, energy security, and energy access can all be enhanced by strong energy efficiency measures. Energy efficiency will also make the energy transition cheaper, faster and more scalable.

The energy efficiency measures of Government of India implemented by SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL | VOL 3 l ISSUE 07

Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) alone have led to energy savings of over 41 billion kWh and reduced India’s greenhouse gas emissions by 32 million tonnes.

EESL has been distributing the superior quality LED bulbs to domestic consumers at Rs. 70 leading to energy savings up to 90% in comparision to incandescent bulbs.

The scheme has been readily adopted What is your view on the impact by all the states, and as of now over 34 of programs like UJALA and Solar crore LED bulbs have been distributed Street Lights? which has saved over INR 17,000 cr in cost and saved 44,347 mn kWh of With the UJALA programme, EESL has energy per year. Consumers have saved provided an impetus to the growth of money, improved their quality of life, the industry creating favorable market and contributed to India’s economic conditions for new industries to develop. growth and prosperity.

The Indian LED market grew by 10 times India has firmly established solar energy in five years and annual domestic as its leading pathway to a sustainable production increased from approximately energy future. Bringing solar to the grid 3 mn LED bulbs in 2013 to 62 mn in 2015. can provide an affordable, renewable, UJALA has played an important role in and low-carbon source of energy that this rapid growth. EESL’s approach of can power India’s underserved regions. bulk competitive procurement attracted Towards this goal, the Ministry of New and tremendous interest and participation Renewable Energy (MNRE) launched the from industry. EESL’s model resulted Atal Jyoti Yojana (AJAY) to illuminate in lowering the manufacturing cost dark regions across five states through of LED bulbs enabling the benefit of solar power with high mast solar LED price reduction to be passed on to the street lights. consumers. Through UJALA, the cost of These lights will be installed on major LED bulb has been brought down by 85 roads, markets, and public places, percent over a period of three years. thereby contributing to safety, and This, in turn, has led to a much larger enabling a better quality of life. EESL is pool of bidders enhancing competition. implementing the programme in rural, Further, EESL’s specifications including the semi-urban, and urban areas that face three-year warranty requirement have less than 50% grid connectivity in states of ensured that LED bulbs procured meet Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand, high quality standards. This is helping and Odisha with 300,000 high-mast solar build market confidence in the product. LED street lights.

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THE CONVERSATION

Measures to promote e-mobility in government fleet, public transportation, supported by adequate public charging infrastructure and, availability of battery systems will be conducive to the growth of electric mobility in the country.

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Q

Kindly tell us how you successfully have been able to contribute to addressing implemented the pay-as-you save significant challenges like low demand, the model for LEDs? Is this model viable for high upfront cost of adoption, and so on.

EVs also?

In your view, what needs to be done on priority to promote and reduce We follow an innovative business model of zero-subsidy, zero-capex and pay-as- the cost of battery storage in the country? you-save for all our programmes, which obviates the need for any upfront capital The Government of India is committed investment in any interventions. The upfront to promote Clean, Connected, Shared cost is borne by EESL and the monetised and Holistic Mobility Initiatives. Also, it savings over time are used to recover acknowledges that affordable, accessible, the cost of investment. This leads to a inclusive and safe mobility solutions are reduction in the initial cost of adoption primary strategic levers for rapid economic of transformative solutions. This is done development and improving ‘Ease of Living’. Thus, recently, Union Cabinet through the following: has approved the National Mission on • Innovative risk allocation of procurement, Transformative Mobility and Battery Storage to encourage setting up of large-scale, installation, service and maintenance • Aggregate demand by including export-competitive integrated batteries incentives for all stakeholders & consumers and cell-manufacturing Giga plants in • P utting out large procurements to India through Phased Manufacturing Programme (PMP). This will enable holistic leverage economies to scale • Passing on the benefits to end users for and comprehensive growth of the more demand aggregation– virtuous battery manufacturing industry in India.

This localisation of production will enable cycle reduction of costs of battery storage We have witnessed the success of this which will drive further adoption of EVs model in UJALA and Street Light National and enhance the uptake of renewable Programme and we are confident that energy and storage solutions. the same will be replicated in EVs and all What has been the progress on the our other programmes. project with ISA for global solar water What do you think is the single biggest pump tender? bottleneck in the adoption of EVs in India? Do you believe 25% of all cars as We are working on the tendering process EV’s is a possible target by 2030? and we are hopeful that we will successfully complete the same in next couple of Electric vehicles are a critical imperative months. to India’s sustainable growth. The Kindly tell us something about EESL’s Government of India is working towards work outside India. What market enabling systematic adoption of EVs in the country. Measures to promote e-mobility scope have you seen there? in government fleet, public transportation, supported by adequate public charging EESL is constantly looking to unlock and infrastructure and, availability of battery sustain markets for energy efficiency. It systems will be conducive to the growth aims to become a global market leader in of electric mobility in the country. This implementing innovative business models, will not only help the industry to grow but to promote the rapid and profitable also enable greater access to greener adoption of energy efficiency solutions. transportation to consumers and ultimately Our ongoing international projects include: lead to more significant benefits for the • Saudi Arabia: Providing consultancy services to the National Energy Services environment.

Company of the Kingdom of Saudi In line with this, EESL has been working Arabia, to enable replication of India’s towards removing various hurdles to successful domestic and street lighting facilitate the growth of electric mobility in programmes the country. With our approach of demand aggregation and bulk procurement, we • Malaysia: Distributing 1 million 9-W LED

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bulbs to households across Melaka • Nepal: Supplying 10 million LED lamps and initiating programs for smart metering and street lighting • Bangladesh: Initiating programs for domestic lighting • U NEP: MoU to accelerate energy efficiency across 66 developing and emerging economies • E ESL has acquired Edina UK Ltd. to harnesses the potential for synergies between these two nations’ efforts, while building on the commitment made by the Prime Ministers of India and UK for an enhanced ‘Energy for Growth’ Partnership. In line with -this investment commitment, EESL is expanding its portfolio with a successful turnkey trigeneration product and service offering. The acquisition will enable EESL in accessing and financing a wider international market for its bespoke, containerised solutions. Additionally, EESL is also exploring strategic partnerships with cleantech organizations across Europe.

Q

What are the other areas EESL could get into in the coming time? Do you see a higher engagement with the private sector?

EESL is constantly looking for new technologies and to sustain markets for energy efficiency in India. This market has been estimated at US $12 billion, with a potential to reduce energy consumption by up to 20 percent.

EESL is already attempting to transform and scale the markets for several energy efficiency solutions like agriculture and municipal pump sets, domestic and street lighting, smart meters, electric mobility, solar lamps, solar rooftops, trigeneration and energy efficient motors.

We will continue to attempt stimulating markets for solutions, that are relevant to the bulk of the society and recalibrating the ecosystem to enable adoption of these solutions, along with driving largescale social impact.

EESL’s approach of aggregating demand ensures that the market attracts private players and foster industry participation – large, medium and small, while passing the benefits of cost reduction - created through bulk procurement - on to energy consumers.

EV UPDATES

BHEL INSTALLS 1ST SOLAR-POWERED EV CHARGING STATIONS State-run Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd. (BHEL) said the company is setting up a network of solar-based electric vehicle chargers on the Delhi-Chandigarh highway. The project is covered under the Department of Heavy Industry’s FAME scheme (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid) & Electric Vehicles in India).

“The establishment of electric vehicle (EV) chargers at regular intervals over the entire 250 kms stretch between Delhi and Chandigarh would allay range-anxiety among the electric vehicle users and bolster their confidence for inter-city travel,” BHEL said in a BSE filing.

The first in the series of charging stations was inaugurated by A R Sihag, Secretary, Department of Heavy Industry (DHI), in the presence of Atul Sobti, Chairman &

Managing Director, BHEL, in Haryana.

BHEL said its scope of work in the project includes design, engineering, manufacturing, supply and installation of the EV charging stations along with a central monitoring system.

“As part of its diversification initiative, BHEL has been expanding its footprints in the e-mobility business. The company has already installed direct current (DC) chargers at Udyog Bhawan in New Delhi. BHEL is also executing another commercial order for installation of DC chargers across various locations in the country,” the company added.

BHEL said, it is extending its offering in the e-mobility segment and has equipped itself to foray into manufacturing of EV chargers, electric buses and related critical components.

In January, BHEL announced that it will set up a network of solar-based electric vehicle chargers (SEVC) on the DelhiChandigarh highway.

Recently, the Rajasthan Electronics & Instruments Limited (REIL) had issued a tender for setting up of 270 EV charging stations across India.

The brief scope of work for the selected bidders will include the supply, erection and commissioning of seventy AC (Smart) Charging Equipment (Bharat AC 001) in Ranchi, Bengaluru, Goa, Shimla, Hyderabad, Agra, and a hundred and seventy DC (Fast) Charging Equipment (Bharat DC 001) and thirty DC Fast Charger 100 KW with 3 Guns (CCS, CHAdeMO and AC Type 2) on the Jaipur-Agra-Delhi highway and Pune-Mumbai Highway and cities.

OLA RAISES RS 400 CR FOR ITS ELECTRIC MOBILITY PLAN Ola Electric Mobility, the company backed by Indian car aggregator Ola, announced on Friday that it has successfully raised Rs. 400 crores (roughly $56.4 million) in a funding round led by several of Ola’s early investors including Tiger Global and Matrix India.

This was the first round of investment for Ola Electric, which reportedly is running several pilots to deploy electric vehicles and charging solutions. The funding will help Ola who in 2018 said that it has plans to bring 1 million electric vehicles to Indian roads within a few years.

In a statement, Bhavish Aggarwal, Co-founder & CEO, Ola said, “At Ola Electric, our mission is to enable sustainable mobility for everyone. India can leapfrog problems of pollution and energy security by moving to electric mobility, create millions of new jobs and economic opportunity, and lead the world.”

He added, “I’m excited to partner with Lee and Avnish again, and look forward to recreating a very successful partnership and a transformative business!”

Anand Shah, Head of Ola Electric Mobility said, “The first problem to solve in electric mobility is charging: users need a dependable, convenient, and affordable replacement for the petrol pump. By making electric easy for commercial vehicles that deliver a disproportionate share of kilometers traveled, we can jumpstart the electric vehicle revolution.”

The new business will be led by Ola executives Anand Shah and Ankit Jain, who will have an independent charter to develop platforms and infrastructure to make electric mobility at scale.

Lee Fixel, Partner, Tiger Global Management added, “We are excited to invest in Ola Electric Mobility, which we believe is the early front-runner in this space and well-positioned to build

the ecosystem for electric mobility. As Ola’s first institutional investors, we are excited to begin this new journey with Ola Electric and partner in creating yet another impactful mobility business.” Avnish Bajaj, Founder and MD, Matrix India also said, “We couldn’t be more excited in repeating our successful early partnership with Ola, with our investment in Ola Electric Mobility.”

In November, NTPC signed MoUs with seven car aggregators including Ola for development and utilisation of public EV charging infrastructure. The announcement about funding comes a day after India’s cabinet approved a scheme to spend Rs 10,000 crores to subsidise sales of electric and hybrid vehicles as part of efforts to curb pollution and reduce dependency on fossil fuels.

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MOHUA MUKHERJEE

Program Ambassador Pro-Bono, International Solar Alliance (ISA) NEXT GENERATION WOMEN WILL HAVE OPPORTUNITIES TO INVOLVE IN DIFFERENT PARTS OF SOLAR VALUE CHAIN

Women of the next generation will have opportunities to be involved in many different parts of the solar value chain, including designing these new, energy-efficient solar gadgets or appliances, as well. We just need to start their familiarity with solar energy when they are still kids, believes Mohua Mukherjee, Program Ambassador Pro-Bono, International Solar Alliance (ISA), an international, inter-governmental organization headquartered in India. In conversation with Manu Tayal, Associate Editor, Saur Energy International, Mukherjee expressed her views on various topics related to solar and renewable industry, her experiences in the industry, women participation in the renewable energy segment etc. Following are the excerpts from that exclusive interview.

Q

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Tell us about how you found yourself in the renewables sector. Was it a planned move?

I became a fan of renewables while working in about 15 African countries from 2003 to 2009 during my previous job at the World Bank. I should mention micro-hydro plants before I talk of solar. In Tanzania and in Nigeria I saw communities depending on small hydros. But those of us who get grid electricity don’t have to do any more than switch on and off, and we never have to think about how the grid works.

Meanwhile, these rural consumers depending on microhydro or solar were unfortunately left alone to deal with all the problems as soon as the construction was completed and the plant was commissioned and all the engineers left the site! This was one feature of renewables that I definitely did not like. No one took responsibility for actual service delivery of renewable energy in those days. The villagers were not sufficiently trained either, so very often the renewable plants in the village (solar or hydel) were not working. But still we knew that renewables were the only answer, so better training and trouble-shooting arrangements were needed.

Why did we have to depend so much on renewables? I was already very familiar with the difficult financial situation of the discoms in many of the countries. I knew that areas without electric connections were highly likely to remain so for many decades to come. It was clear that there were not enough funds to expand the grid.

In those early days, solar energy was still very expensive and solar LED lamps and lanterns were still in the experimental stage, not yet commercially available. Surprisingly though, because people in many African countries were already used to paying very high prices for their use of diesel and kerosene in remote areas, they were willing to invest in high-priced solar panels just to get relief. African consumers already had a high monthly expenditure on energy. To them, those early expensive solar panels did not seem as out-of-reach as they would to an Indian rural customer who used to buy subsidized kerosene and diesel back then. I will never forget the joy and magic and party atmosphere throughout a village, that came from turning on one solar streetlight in Nigeria around SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL | VOL 3 l ISSUE 07

2005. I am fortunate to have been invited there to witness it. I used to wish in those days that something will happen to bring down the price of renewables so that more people could benefit from it. Rural areas with no hope of the grid any time soon, should be able to easily get access to affordable renewable energy, I used to wish hard. Now thanks to global market developments, it has come true! Solar prices have tumbled, to the point that many very efficient solar gadgets like lights, fans, TVs, coolers, are now available commercially.

In the African country of Togo, the government is even buying people’s solar home systems for them, because they know they cannot give grid connections. People will only have to pay for their energy used. It is transforming lives, especially of lower income families. The Togo government deserves great recognition for their leadership on this. Personally, I have been privileged to watch this sector from the front row, while it was undergoing a rapid transformation, for the last 15 years!

Q

What are the positives in this sector that will make it attractive for women, and people in general?

There is a wonderful mindset to be found in most people, male or female, who are working in this sector. Every one of them enjoys talking about what they do. It is made for people who truly love solar energy. They love the fact that it is clean, it is a free resource shining down from the sky, and it is not creating pollution or harming the planet. People working in solar have lots of good messages to share when they are working: --Installation companies enjoy marketing this solution to prospective rooftop customers, and explaining how much money the customer will save every month if their discom has net metering. This means that while they are taking power from the discom at night, they are producing power on their rooftop and selling it to the discom during the peak sunshine hours of the day. The amount purchased and the amount sold is netted off, and there is a huge drop in the electricity bill right from the beginning. This kind of customer education is a pleasure!

THE CONVERSATION

--Engineers who design large solar parks are also very enthusiastic about their work, particularly with the latest technology applications that allow them to remotely check the performance of each one of their thousands of panels, and know where to repair faults or replace equipment. I should amend my statement to say that these same engineers are probably the most stressed out people on earth when they have to submit a tender for a large scale solar project, because bidding is so aggressive in India these days! But I am sure they still love their field. We need more women to be trained as solar engineers. I see very few of them. Even fewer are trained as installers to climb onto roofs, but until we improve our safety culture in India, that’s OK by me!

--Then there are the finance specialists, who work on finance and legal aspects of solar power purchase agreements and various contracts.

--I have just one message to women who are considering employment in any aspect of the solar industry: SOLAR IS HERE TO STAY IN INDIA—please join us!

Q

What do you think can be done to ensure that the solar sector attracts more quality professionals, including women?

I think that education about solar energy should start in school, from the age of 10. I think small kids should be told that electricity can come from sunlight falling onto a solar panel. Alternatively it can also come from burning coal to get electricity to run our fans and lights. Kids should learn and go home and educate their parents and elders.

If we start opening kids’ minds to solar energy from a young age, this will not be seen as a boys or girls subject. If solar is part of the curriculum from age 10-16, and girls develop an interest in solar energy right from childhood, they will enter the sector in larger numbers.

Apart from solar engineers and electrical engineers who will design the specifications of new projects, the solar sector needs numerous other people with a variety of skills. Here are just a few thoughts: (i) communication and public relations to raise awareness in the general public about solar energy

THE CONVERSATION

adoption; (ii) environmental science (to figure out policies and strategies for endof-life disposal of solar panels, which need to be treated like electronic waste); (iii) project management; (iv) getting permits from discoms to connect rooftop panels to the grid; (v) contract management with customers of a solar company; (vi) loan negotiations with commercial lenders to a solar project; (vii) data analysis of various kinds, including from sensors and communications equipment that is installed to automate processes in a solar plant; (viii) conducting rural surveys and focus group discussions before construction of solar mini-grids; (ix) training a sales force including female saleswomen to find customers and boost demand for solar powered appliances in areas with unreliable grid electricity; (x) customer management and after-sales service for solar powered appliance sales.I believe that the next frontier in solar is already coming: we will soon all have various personal gadgets, like fans and lights and even fridges in future, which will be run on solar energy.

Even if we have a connection to the electric grid, some people have very high monthly bills. If they can substitute and use a solar-powered gadget for a few hours, then they will lower their electric bills. Plus the solar gadget is cute and fun to use!

(Disclosure: I recently bought a solar fan online, just to see how long it works during the night, after charging it during the day, and whether I consider it a good substitute.

So far the answer is YES! I love it!)

So women of the next generation will have opportunities to be involved in many different parts of the solar value chain, including designing these new, energyefficient solar gadgets or appliances, as well. We just need to start their familiarity with solar energy when they are still kids!

Q

Did you ever find your work in renewables more demanding than elsewhere? How do you manage your time?

28 MARCH 2019

I do what all working women everywhere do!

We just have to get on with it and become experts at juggling our own schedules and everyone else’s, who depends on us. Solar energy is no more or no less demanding than any other sector in that respect.

It really also helps if you love what you do, so that you can benefit from an internal hidden source of energy that comes from SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL | VOL 3 l ISSUE 07

Apart from solar engineers and electrical engineers who will design the specifications of new projects, the solar sector needs numerous other people with a variety of skills.

your passion for the work. It prevents you from feeling tired or stressed after the normal length of the workday. This passion gives you an extra boost to your internal battery, keeping it charged for an extra 2-3 hours after it should have already run out. This internal energy boost, if available, comes in handy for the extra work of juggling others’ needs and maybe sometimes putting your own needs on hold, which is unfortunately very familiar to most working women, regardless of which sector they are in. I think that the knowledge of being in a sector that is dynamic and exciting and good for the planet, cuts down on air pollution levels and makes use of a free and abundant natural resource like sun-shine, are all very positive points. For women who are scientifically inclined, I urge you to please consider going into research and development of new solar powered products—things we cannot even imagine yet today, that will be perfectly designed to run on solar power and grid power, or a battery, depending on whichever is available.

The Indian large-scale solar industry has amazed the world for the speed at which it has grown since 2015, and also for the competitiveness of tariffs that have been seen at auctions. We have earned our place on the international map for that.

But now, let us turn to the small-scale solar sector, so that we can bring the benefits of solar technology into the hands of the common man, who is living on a limited income, and let us help him to save some money on his energy expenditures by finding solar solutions for him. Women who are interested in solar---please come and join the effort! Once upon a time it was hard to imagine an individual ever owning a computer. They were shared assets in large university basements. Before we could blink, we went from desktops to laptops to netbooks and I-Pads. Our smartphones are now the most powerful computers, in our pockets and handbags.

We urge women to join the solar sector in large numbers—help us to take advantage of the remarkable price declines of solar panels, and help us to follow a solar journey as amazing as that of the personal computer. Today a lot of solar gadgets are imported. With the power of Indian women joining the sector in large numbers, I am sure that in a few years from now we will be proudly able to BUY INDIAN!.

OPED

DRIVING GREATER EFFICIENCY THROUGH TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION DR. UMA RAJARATHNAM

Head of Applied Research & Collaboration (ARC), Enzen Technological excellence can change the world as history testifies from the steam engine and the telephone, to the airplane and the internet, many successful inventions have relied on smarter use of technology to transform how we live, work, travel and communicate.

It’s marvellous how these inventions have become so integral to our lives – and how technology was used to inspire and deliver them. Yet such inventions needed the right attitude too: namely a continual pursuit of improvement, excellence and greater efficiency, with the aim of creating a better society for all.

In any industry or sector, advancements in technology only achieve their potential when they’re combined with the human desire to recognise the challenges before us and identify solutions. When this happens, it leads to technological excellence that delivers many positive outcomes. Examples are more efficient use of resources to help the environment, more people accessing the technology they need to improve society, and more businesses prospering to increase economic growth.

Similar forces are shaping the energy industry today. Energy and utility companies want to see their sector thrive and ensure more and more people have the ability to access and afford energy and water every day. Technological excellence is the key to achieving the kind of win-win situation that will benefit both companies and consumers.

Challenge, innovation and application

So what do we mean by technological excellence? It has three fundamental tenets: challenge, innovation and application.

‘Challenge’ describes the problem that needs to be overcome.

‘Innovation’ means the approach one must take to solve it.

‘Application’ is the use of correct technology to deliver the innovation.

In the ever-changing energy sector, the main objective is to provide services to consumers in a safe, reliable and sustainable manner. The process of challenge-innovation-application is essential to achieving this. This is evident in the many disruptive and digital technologies becoming more prevalent in today’s industry. Together, they’re equipping utility companies with the tools they need to deliver safer power, pressurised gas and clean water to homes and businesses alike.

A better understanding of consumers

Today, industries are finding ways and means to improve their processes and understand their customers better. More than ever, companies are looking towards machine learning, augmented reality and virtual reality as tools to assist with this.

Such technologies are allowing utility companies to automate

their processes and simulate real-life situations so they can test, learn, adapt and improve their services.

This automation has two main advantages. Firstly, it reduces human intervention, thereby decreasing the risk of human errors that are a main cause of inefficiency and accidents.

Secondly, it reduces overall costs, thus helping all stakeholders in the long run.

In addition, the energy sector generates huge amounts of data, which if interpreted correctly can lead to improved service and experience for both companies as well as consumers. By employing techniques like Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT) and predictive analysis and forecasting, also known as big data analytics, we can build a clearer picture of sector and consumer preferences and how they are evolving.

We can also predict growing consumer demand and adapt in order to meet these changing requirements. This enables utility businesses to better prepare for changes in demand, thus delivering uninterrupted power and water and superior levels of customer service.

In the 21st century, this insight is invaluable, especially as the industry continues to adopt newer models like distributed generation and integrates renewables such as wind, solar and hydro power. With so many different technologies being used, the ability to streamline processes, gather intelligence and enhance the productivity of the entire ecosystem is essential.

The human touch

We live in a competitive world where customer demands and needs are evolving rapidly. The task ahead for companies in the energy industry is to focus on ways and means to cater to these demands, while still safeguarding their own interests and operations.

Such a challenge brings opportunity too. Whether it’s using automation, AI or data analysis to make the supply of water and power safer, smarter and more efficient, or predicting errors and preventing disasters, we can make our industry better and more sustainable for future generations.

Technology will evolve, of course, and so will the way the energy sector operates. Over time, the need to perform better and more efficiently on a continual basis will become the industry norm - and the ability to do it well will be a deciding factor in the overall success of the energy and water industries.

Ultimately, the main differentiator will be the excellence companies and individuals can bring into the system – and the special spark of human ingenuity that makes the entire process successful.

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THE CONVERSATION

SANTHOSH S NAIR Director, Energy Segment-Asia, Nokia

Santhosh S Nair, Director, Energy Segment-Asia, Nokia spoke about the massive potential in the energy segment in India for Nokia. The Indian market is a critical market for Nokia, where, thanks to its huge telecom network investments, it already has close to 16000 employees. He was speaking to Group Editor, Prasanna Singh

Q

Tell us about the work Nokia is doing in India in the smart energy grid space.

savings is possible in certain areas, be it maintenance, or efficiencies.

Q

So where are these cost savings coming from, when it Nokia as you know is primarily a communications company. comes to Renewable Energy setups, especially Wind So for Nokia globally and for India specifically, there are a couple of sectors we are focusing beyond telco, while keeping Installations that you spoke about? telco as our major play.

We can see that there's a lot of growth in the energy and Primarily, especially with renewable energy, we have important transport segments. So, it’s about using our base skills for assets which are in remote areas and the wind farms are applications on the energy segment, where we can see susceptible to a lot of mechanical problems. So if there is change in wind direction, sometimes the pitch assembly gets possibilities in energy including renewables. worn out, that’s a problem. So to send a crew out there, and Nokia recently launched a private smart grid run by LTE bring it back for repairs, it's a cost. So identifying a problem in Brazil. How does that work? build up early on, can be really important. So that's a really good case of saving downtime.

So LTE (long term evolution) is where we are You must have heard about the wild fires in after moving from 3G to 4G and now 5G. So California. So according to public reports, in fact when we all talk about industry 4.0, out of 21 fires, 17 were attributed to utility it's all about IOT, (Internet of things) driven related issues. Like an electric pole falling efficiencies with many applications in down with live wires. So one of the options the energy sector. So every part of the could be to cut the time to respond to a energy network needs to be sensed. To livewire falling down, before it touches sense in real time, you need to have real down it need to be de-energized. It's connectivity. So all this 4G/5G evolution a big use case. is all about industry 4.0 really. Now there’s So basically you're saying you're a lot of edge computing* coming up offering a solution which kind with industry 4.0, in the energy sector to combines interlinked devices like cameras, serve as your eyes, in renewables, which IOT and more… are in remote areas. These assets need to be connected. That's where Nokia is pushing Any kind of sensing device, whether it is camera a lot. And we see that there's a real scope of for surveillance or it's a sensor which is set for predictive energy sector being more secure, with more reliable networks coming with LTE, that kind of speed and response maintenance, it all can be brought back, and it can be even looked at Edge computing way, especially in terms to any problems in the network.

An obvious challenge here is the spectrum, as that is controlled of autonomous vehicles where you need to communicate by telecom operators. So we work together with them where using video in vehicles. You need to have real time inputs. required. In places like Australia, large mining firms like BHP, Rio You don't have the luxury of getting it back the same day. So Tinto, managed to get spectrum for themselves by making a you need that kind of EDGE communication. So that's where case for secure networks for themselves. Even in the US, multiple these kind of solutions will come into play. utility firms are pushing jointly to have spectrum allocated for I also read about how this can make grid smarter to adapt their requirements. to renewables. How does that work?

In terms of actual impact.can you give us some idea of the impact?

Definitely. Managing renewables based supply is a big challenge for the utility because of the interruptable nature.

In terms of numbers, we're seeing that even 60-70 percent It can suddenly spike, or go down even. You have a solar set

Q

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*Edge computing is computing that’s done at or near the source of the data, rather than cloud servers at a data centre. Thus, it speeds up response and data processing even further.

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL | VOL 3 l ISSUE 07

THE CONVERSATION

up generating and a cloud cover can reduce the generation.

Wind direction can change and reduce the generation. And then the amount of renewables in the grid is now really going up. And in case of India, it's almost about 20% renewables now (Capacity). So imagine a situation where suddenly you lose a set of renewables which have been generating and you need to get back to stability. So you need to really sense the renewable generation on a real time basis. And optimise your demand-supply mix. So this is a challenge for every utility.

Especially transmission, and going forward distribution. So distribution utilities typically have not been doing this kind of a job. Now suddenly you have multiple generating sources and supplying it to you and then they need the right data to manage the quality of the lines . So that's again a use case where we need to react faster. Of course it's just not communication. You need analytics also. So that's where analytics and optimization is a part of it.

Q

So you spoke about the discoms . Where does India stand vis-a-vis other markets you've seen in terms of the quality of the grid right now?

I guess the Indian grid of course is comparable to many other markets. The difference in the Indian market is that we still own a shortage. A shortage in terms of transmission and distribution capacity. Some of the other markets have got a surplus capacity. So that's one major difference. And that's again maybe more important for having the said systems.

And I understand from the Indian situation is that they are actually looking at it. One of the good things is that now having these kind of solar parks with connectivity coming up and also having renewable driven set ups which power grid has been setting up. So things are looking up, but there’s much to be done.

that gives you a real time consumption pattern. So you can predict demand better.

Manage your supply at the right time. And also you know how much you're pumping into the grid from the generation and how much is being consumed. So any anomalies whether it is a theft, whether it is ignorance due to lack of data, you can always plug it. On top of that if you put analytics you can identify power theft or overdraws. That's at utility end.

Interesting things at customer end can help with energy efficiency, because now you can tell a customer that I would be able to provide you a better plan if you can shift your consumption, so flexible pricing nudges her there.

So today whatever telcos do, a utility can too. So prepaid metering becomes an option. And like a telco, more plans and more options for the customer. Thus, it can help both ways, by helping the utility to reduce their losses, improve collections, better accuracy of their billing systems and all these things on the consumer side.

Q

How can your solutions work at say, a mini-grid level?

Today, for power you are paying nine cents or 8 cents per unit (Rs 5.50 to Rs 6). Our solutions don’t really add to that cost anymore, and deliver efficiencies to boot, that could actually reduce the cost for everyone in the mini grid. With battery storage costs coming down, the possibilities from better management driven by our inputs go up further still.

With solar power prices coming down, the case is very strong.

Q

How does implementation work. Do you place your own people out there, or train people, or track remotely?

Nokia supports it. Nokia has got a good skill set supporting that as a vendor.We also work as service provider to operate it. But we haven’t seen that in many cases yet, because many of India is probably one of the most price sensitive markets the times people don’t want to do it in house, except maybe locally, right? How does that impact you? Does that mean minor service operation, managing network. you have to find innovative ways to sell your solutions?

So does the ‘Smart City’ push support your own marketing well?

While India is price sensitive, India has scale also. Scale sometimes compensates for lower prices. As you've seen in solar. India has brought down solar price to about 3-4 cents Smart cities is something we've been dealing for long. I mean now. But technology is complimenting that. So low prices are there's not even a definition of smart cities. Who is Smart City really a short term concern, technology should eventually IOT usages. It could be smart parking or security, or other things around utility infrastructures compensate.

Q

Q

Q

Q

As an example, in India's case, look at smart metering. Smart metering itself is a big business case for India because the distribution losses here are as high as 15, even 20%. Ideally, losses should be 6 or 7 percent. So if smart meters help bring down that it's already paid for.

It does this by ensuring you get to know at any point of time what somebody's consuming. Today a utility gets to know at the end of the month. If you see the parameters of consumption almost every 15 minutes or every 30 minutes

Market size.There's no strict benchmark really, so we generally look at potential for long term solutions and how much you can grow in a few years time. If it can sustain double digit growth or more in the next three years four years, it’s a good market.

With continuous growth of course. We also look at the changing industry landscape. If the industry is changing to a more deregulated industry for example, that's an important aspect, because deregulation brings you a lot of play for efficiency and digitisation.

So do you have models which are linked to productivity improvements and cost savings or how does it work?

When you look at the market for your services, what is that one single factor that attracts you?

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TECHNICAL FEATURE

MONITOR YOUR PV PLANT REMOTELY ON IOT BASED SCADA

32 MARCH 2019

For a Solar PV Plant Developer, getting the Inverter up, charging the switchyard and pumping power to the grid has been the primary focus. Installing SCADA ( Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) which is a computer-based monitoring and control system used to gather and analyse the real-time data from the PV plant is still an ‘optional’ task.

Its only after couple of years after the plant is commissioned, when the O&M team reports issues at the site that the plant owner realizes that monitoring is important to figure out the performance of the plant.

Based on Avi solar’s O&M field experience of more than 800MW PV plants, we analysed why is that most of the plants do not have a reliable plan monitoring system or SCADA. Here is a list of findings why the remote plant monitoring is not effective.

1. Leased line connections not working.

• Most SCADA needs a high bandwidth internet connection like leased lines, which are very expensive to maintain.

• Developers have not renewed the AMC with SCADA supplier • Many suppliers sold their system at low prices initially, but owners didn’t know that you need to pay a heavy premium every year.

3. Cables connecting the SCADA systems are damaged.

• Most traditional SCADA systems were interconnected using Kilometers of Fibre Optic / Copper cables, which have been damaged by unskilled labourers at the plant.

4. No Service / Support engineers visit the plant • Many leading SCADA suppliers provide you telephonic support. But to resolve major issues you need to depute service engineers at these sites which are usually in remote areas.

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5. SCADA is limited to control room only.

• Many plants have a monitoring system at the control room, which means you are at the mercy of site engineer. Data accuracy and relevance could be at stake if the plant can’t be monitored remotely.

6. No String Level Monitoring • Data collection is limited to Inverter monitoring only. String level faults cannot be detected.

The good news is that, there are retrofit solutions available which can replenish your existing SCADA and bring the plant data to your remote monitoring centre. IoT being the buzz word today, there are several options to get the data from your plant to the cloud in a cost-effective manner. There are several IoT platforms which can monitor data from PV plants. EagleSun SCADATM is one such platform exclusively developed for Solar PV Plants.

As the PV plant gets older, one needs to watch for performance degradations, losses due to aging of plant BOS like connectors, cables and terminations. Your SCADA needs to be operational and you need to have the plant data. It is strongly recommended that you monitor all the equipments, mainly the Inverter, Weather Station, String Combiner Box, Transformers, VCB and Energy Meters. If cost concerns exist for string-level monitoring, Zonal level monitoring solution can be considered.

The history of your plant will not only give insight into the performance parameters, it can also help you a great deal in forecasting & scheduling.

THE CONVERSATION

RAJENDRA KUMAR PARAKH CFO, Vikram Solar

AVAILABILITY OF DOMESTIC FINANCE AT VIABLE COST IS STILL A DISTANT DREAM The only challenge that we can foresee is in terms of availability of finance and cost of finance available for renewable energy sector. Sources of finance for both solar manufacturing industry and solar deployment industry are scarce, a large part of funding comes through the FII and availability of domestic finance at viable cost is still a distant dream for renewable energy industry, believes Rajendra Kumar Parakh, CFO, Vikram Solar, Kolkata-based high efficiency PV module maker and comprehensive EPC solutions provider with global footprints. In conversation with Manu Tayal, Associate Editor, Saur Energy International, Parakh shared his views on various issues which the power sector is currently dealing with along with his company’s future plans in the renewable space. Following are the excerpts from that exclusive interview.

Q

Do share details about Vikram Solar’s total manufacturing capacity till date. How has it grown over the past three years? Are there any plans for further expansion?

Currently Vikram Solar has an annual module manufacturing capacity of 1 GW, 950 MW+ of total Project capacity (Ground mounted + Rooftop, commissioned + ongoing), and more than 400 MW O&M projects.

In 2015 we reached 0.5 GW annual module manufacturing capacity and in 2017, we enhanced the capacity to 1 GW. And we have elaborate plans to enhance the manufacturing capacity further in future years.

Q

Vikram Solar recently commissioned a 200 MW solar project in Andhra Pradesh, kindly shed some light on this and generally what is the average CUF on such projects?

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We commissioned a 200 MW (2x100 MW) Solar Power Project for Andhra Pradesh Power Generation Corporation (APGENCO) on 19th February 2019.

We received the project of installing 2 blocks of 100 MW plants on 9th March 2017 after competing in regards of- Design, Engineering, Manufacturing, Testing, Supply, Packing and Forwarding, Transportation, Unloading, Storage at site, and commissioning capabilities. Project is spread across 1000 acres (500 Acres each for 100 MW) of undulated rocky terrain, and power to be evacuated at 33 KV level in 2 Pooling substations of 33/220 KV capacity, which will further evacuate power to 220/400 KV main Substation.

The plant will generate 446 MU (223 MU x2) energy annually and will power nearly 1,50,000 homes once connected to the grid. So, Capacity utilization factor of this project is 446 MU (223 MU x2) energy annually.

We are proud to have completed this 200 MW solar project or conservative clients such as- APGENCO, testifying our resolve and commitment to contribute to National and Global solar revolution.

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THE CONVERSATION

Q

Has the safeguard duty led to any significant positives for manufacturers? Why/ Why not?

Although, the intent of safeguard duty was to protect and give a leg up to domestic solar manufacturer. But unfortunately, it has failed to deliver any positive effects to domestic solar manufacturers.

For projects, which were auctioned before the implementation of Safeguard Duty, developers are inclined to buy imported solar modules as they can pass on the cost of duty to end of consumers, under change in law clause only if the modules are imported. Also for the project, which were auctioned out after the implementation of SGD, procurement would be done in second half of 2019. So the SGD didn’t yield any positive results for the domestic manufacturers.

As a domestic solar module manufacturer, the majority of our solar cells came from China (as Indian solar cell manufacturing capacity is low). Therefore, imposition of Safeguard duty on the cells and modules manufactured in SEZ (India) has made thriving in the market very challenging.

It has increased domestically manufactured solar equipment cost, thus pushing domestic module manufacturers out of the market and also raised project costs, which has adversely affected project growth within the country.

On the other hand, safeguard duties have failed to stop the imported solar equipment influx within country, as even after paying safeguard duties, the imported solar equipment are cheaper than domestically manufactured solar equipment.

Q

Besides the race of achieving ambitious targets for solar, has industry started planning and implementing a recycling policy for solar equipment too?

Report from International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the International Energy Agency (IEA) show that India will produce over 78 million tonnes of solar e-waste by 2050.

The PV waste will probably rise to 50,000-320,000 metric tonne by 2030 as a result of country’s solar targets. Therefore, it is important to have policies and guidelines to manage the disposal of PV waste.

The Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEF&CC) have introduced a few regulations under E-Waste Management and Handling. Additionally, NTPC and SECI based solar project tenders come with solar waste responsibility clause.

Also, MNRE levies responsibility of disposal of solar PV cells and modules to the developers.

However, the issue is that these regulations do not specify management of used solar power systems. Industry still awaits a clear policy regarding recycling of solar equipment’s which will create a level playing field.

Q

Any forays into Rooftop segment directly, for instance?

Or a retail play?

Vikram Solar has made great strides into the Rooftop solar development recently. Our total Rooftop Projects portfolio stands 62 MW (Commissioned+ under execution) and have In your view, what are the main challenges domestic delivered green energy solutions to Government entities solar industry is currently facing and where do you see such as - ISRO, IOCL, SBI, WBSEDCL, and AAI. The client list in the future of the Indian PV market? private sector includes - SL Group, Century Ply, KBL, Keventers Agro, UAL Industries and Anmol Biscuits, etc.

Indian solar industry is expected to show better results in 2019 In FY 18-19 we have commissioned – than 2018, which witnesses slow down caused by many tender • 3272 kw project for WBPDCL, West Bengal cancellations. The only challenge that we can foresee is in • 2100 kW project for Keventer Group, West Bengal (largest terms of availability of finance and cost of finance available single-shed Rooftop Solar plant in Eastern India) for renewable energy sector. Sources of finance for both • 1500 kw project for IMFA, Odisha solar manufacturing industry and solar deployment industry • 1500 kw project for Kirloskar Brothers Limited, Pune are scarce, a large part of funding comes through the FII and • 1300 kw project for SL nutrition group, Rajasthan availability of domestic finance at viable cost is still a distant • 410 Kw project for IOCL, Panipant dream for renewable energy industry.

• 405 kw project for Century Ply, Kandla, Gujarat And many more. We have plans to enhance our contribution With the overall electricity market in poor shape due to in rooftop solar sector in coming months. discoms financial conditions, how can the government Do you believe the large manufacturing linked tenders, reconcile the need for low priced power with domestic or even the 7.5GW tender in Leh-kargil could kickstart manufacturing, that developers claim, leads to higher costs? a wider manufacturing push in India?

State Discoms are in bad shape since a decade, In 2015 UDAY was launched to ease the financial burden of the state Government is trying to incentivize manufacturing through Discoms, however it was not much effective, financial health linking manufacturing with PPA. It is a step forward to boost of Discoms continuous to be bad shape. Owing to the financial manufacturing in India. health, Discoms are refusing to buy Solar power, at any tariff However, manufacturing and deploying solar are completely above INR 3. However, the average power procurement different game and tender document was not able to solicit tariff for Discoms is INR 3.47/kWH. In our view, until and unless good response during its first phase. However, based on the financial health of Discoms improves in a significant way, it inputs from the industry, the document has been revised. would be very difficult for the government to reconcile low We are hoping that it should draw good response from the industry. priced power with domestic manufacturing.

Q

Q

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MODULE UPDATES

LONGI COMMISSIONS NEW 5GW MONO MODULE FACTORY One of the leading solar modules maker LONGi Solar has commissioned another 5GW high-efficiency monocrystalline module plant in Chuzhou, Anhui, China.

The move comes as the company aims at enhancing its high-efficiency monocrystalline module capacity to meet rising global demand for highefficiency products.

Further, this 5GW factory was built with a total investment of about USD 328 million.

Also, LONGi Solar’s new facility with fully automated production line, manufactures high-efficiency modules, including the innovative Hi-MO3 bifacial mono half-cut PERC module and other next-generation products that meet the demand for highefficiency, high-reliability and high-yield products.

After equipment commissioning, capacity ramp-up, efficiency stabilization and finalization work, the company’s Chuzhou factory rolled out its first module in January 2019.

On production in new plant, the company said that, “Today, Phase 1 project with 2.5GW is in full swing, manufacturing modules for global customers. Phase 2 is in the commissioning stage and will start full production soon.”

Currently, the company’s monocrystalline cell and module capacities are all PERC, producing both monofacial and bifacial

products.

Commenting on the development, LONGi Solar, President, Li Wenxue said, “In 2019, our company identified a gap between fast-growing global orders and our highefficiency cell and module capacities.

LONGi Chuzhou factory will greatly narrow this gap. Besides manufacturing, the factory will also facilitate the transformation of technological and technical achievements to the mass production of new products.”

Besides, the Chinese module maker also said that it will move ahead its 45GW monocrystalline silicon ingot and wafer capacity expansion plans for 2020, and adapt cell and module capacities to market demand.

Meanwhile, mono PERC has been acclaimed and recognized in the global PV module market nowadays and high-efficiency PERC technology further enhances the power output and effectively reduces BOS cost.

PATENT CASE BASED ON STRUCTURE, NOT TECH: HANWHA

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Diversified Korean Group Hanwha, which has been in the news for its Hanwha Q Cells division suing rivals, said that the patent over which it is suing rivals is not restricted to any particular method of manufacture, but the solar cell structure.

The Seoul based firm issued the clarification after one of the three firms in the suit, Longi Solar, pointed out that it currently uses plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) technology, while the disputed patent relates to atomic layer deposition (ALD) technology. Thus, the Hanwha clarification seeks to keep the guns trained on rivals for now.

Hanwha Q Cells had claimed last week that its subsidiaries in the US and Germany SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL | VOL 3 l ISSUE 07

have taken legal actions against JinkoSolar, Longi Solar and REC Group over the unlawful import and sale of patent-infringing PV cells and modules.

Both Longi Solar and REC Group responded by saying they learned about the case only from media reports, and had received no official correspondence or even legal notices. JinkoSolar was the only one that had dismissed the allegations forthwith, claiming that the same donot have any technical or legal merit.

The Hanwha Q Cell release reads: “The patent claims asserted by Hanwha Q CELLS are not restricted to any particular method of manufacture,

such as atomic layer deposition (ALD) or plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD). The infringement claims relating to the ‘215 patent are directed to solar cell structure with a first dielectric layer including aluminum oxide and a second dielectric layer that contains hydrogen. The patented technology can be applied in many ways. A solar cell employing what is known as Passivated Emitter Rear Cell (PERC) technology is only one type of solar cell that may use technology covered by the ‘215 patent.”

Thus, claiming a much wider class of infringement on its patent than was earlier believed .

TECHNICAL FEATURE

QUALITY CONTROL OF PV PLANTS WITH ON-SITE MOBILE PV MODULES TEST LABORATORY Satish Pandey (Author), Basant Jain, Sandeep Jadhav and Preetha Pillai

Mahindra Susten Pvt. Ltd, Mumbai, India

Abstract- This paper explains the benefits of On-site mobile PV Test Laboratory developed in India by Mahindra Susten Pvt Ltd(MSPL)&launched in market in September-2017.

This On-Site Mobile PV laboratory is the only one existing in India which can solve the problem of Quality assessment by eliminating the losses caused by transportation of solar modules in remotely located Labs for testing. This on-site PV mobileTest Lab has the capacity to perform the PV module flash test at STC condition complementing it with EL and IR image taken on field to check for any degradation in PV module power(Pmax).Degradation study is performed all over the world to evaluate the performance of PV module and deal with warranty related issues. This kind of mobile Lab minimises generation loss as all the measurements are taken during the non-generation hours. Mahindra Susten Solar Mobile PV Test lab has been developed for conducting quality test.

There are various PV module testing Labslocated remotely all over Indiahowever, this may add the transportation cost and time. Thistechnical paper highlights the scope, advantages, features and need of the On-Site mobile PV modules test laboratory. A degradation study on various sites has been performed to check the feasibility of on-site mobile PV laboratory. A complete analysis and correlation of electrical characteristics, EL, IR and visual image is studied in this paper. This paper focuses on benefiting government body, customer, EPC and manufacturers for dealing with degradation related issues by recommending the cause and solution for module degradation.

Introduction

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Thereliability of the long-term performance of a PV plant depends on timely performance evaluation of the modules present in field which can also cause significant revenue losses if ignored.

The expected lifetime of PV modules can be achieved only if the quality of the plant is maintained according to the IEC Standard.This mobile PV Test Lab is one of its kind of mobile lab which provides a range of electrical and visual tests of PV modules as per IEC61215/61646 norms. The degradation of PV Module impacts the overall generation of the plant as each module is electrically interdependent with each other through string configuration. Hence proper quality check of the modules installed in the field is important so that proper action can be taken and power loss in the entire plant can be reduced. In India,PV module testing labs are available in various parts of the country. These labs are located away from the plant locations and not easily accessible. If any performance related discrepancy occurs in solar power plant, the conventional way is to send affected modules to the Testing Lab with the added cost of transportation and SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL | VOL 3 l ISSUE 07

additional damage to the module if not treated delicately.

This problem is solved by mobile PV laboratory developed

by MSPL.

Figure 1: Mobile PV Lab developed in India by Mahindra SustenPvt. Ltd.

In Fig 1 it shows the mobile PV lab developed indigenously by Mahindra Susten Pvt Ltd. Its robustdesign can reachvarious geographical regions of India and can produce reports on the degradation status of PV modules in less than 3-4 days.

This laboratory is maintained as per IEC/ISO 17025 standards for benchmarking and qualification testing as required for PV modules, thus it can contribute towards the goal of MNRE(Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, India)of seeking quality check in solar PV modules.

The mobile lab comprises three major equipment’s namely Flash tester, EL (Electroluminescence)Tester,andThermal Imaging camera. The flash test is being done with the help of an AAA-class Solar Sun Simulator which gives the I-V characteristics of the PV module at STC (Standard Test Condition). IR(Infrared)Scanner/camera is used to detect any hotspot in the module usinga thermal imaging technique.

The EL imaging of the PV modules helps to identify micro cracks and effect of PID(Potential Induced degradation) in Modules.

Key features of mobile pv TEST lab This lab has a failsafe system which comprises very robust design with no movable parts.The Sun Solar simulator is of AAA-class which can be used to test modules of all type of current technologies (mono-Si, poly-Si, Amorphous silicon (aSi, CIS, CIGS), CdTe, HIT & high efficiency). This lab is builtto meetISO/IEC 17025 Standards enabling it to maintain standards of PV Plant with proper Quality assurance procedure. The lab is accredited as per ISO\IEC 17025 norms by NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing & Calibration Laboratories) an autonomoussociety providing Accreditation (Recognition) of Technical competence of a testing, calibration, etc. NABL has mutual recognition arrangements withAsia Pacific Laboratory

TECHNICAL FEATURE

Accreditation Cooperation (APLAC) and International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC).

When compared to a traditional horizontally mounted system for I-V testing, the vertical mount structure for flash test and the EL measurements provides an all in one solution cutting down the time required for test analysis and report making. This is the first of its kind in India providing a range of electrical and visual tests including Flash test, EL Test and Thermal Imaging of PV modules as per IS14286/IEC61215.

It requires ZERO set up time for the Dark Room.The lab has integrated living space for an engineer for instant reporting.

It is equipped with integrated distributed generation to work without site auxiliary power supply (self-powered). Robust and compact model of Lab maintains the STC conditions required for testing, fail-safe operations integrated with the Climate 25c feedback to ensure any error due to non-uniformity of temperature and it is interlocked with Alarms.This robust model of PV Lab is a way towards PV module sustainability.

The traditional PV module I-V testing is performed in ambient environment with irradiance 700to 1000W/m2.These I-V results are then translated in compliance with the norms of IEC60891.

However, translation procedures are prone to error and require the testing of the module in operating time, for which combiner box/ string inverter should be disconnected during measurement as it disturbs the power generation process.

The mobile PV Lab I-V test can be conducted during the non-generation hours which don’t affect the generation of PV plant. Another advantage of PV mobile lab is that STC condition can be maintained in the lab and no need of any translation procedure which is prone to any high uncertainty for the power degradation calculation.

Advantage of Quality Control: The rapid performance assessment of PV modules is a big advantage for solar power plants in India. To survive in solar business the EPC contractors and manufacturers need to maintain the module quality for best output. Periodic check of module ensures sustainable outcome with assurance to customers which will enhance the productivity in market for the business. Government can build guidelines for setting warranty conditions and methods to follow by the consumer in field to avoid damage of the module. PV module quality control guidelines can be established by manufacturers to achieve module reliability from previous flaw by periodic PV plant survey. PV system designers can build models that can reduce the possibility of degradation in modules from recommendation of module quality inspection.Warranty claim of modules can be made easy by a certified method for Quality check which will help both module manufacture and client.

Overall perspective of Quality control through Mobile lab • Manufacturer: Manufacturer should have the time zero data of the modules as the defects caused due to transportation and handling cannot cover the warranty terms of the module.

• The Quality inspection of module can give the details of type of defects which can help to prove the claim for warranty if modules are degraded abruptly.

• EPC provider: EPC contractors install the modules on the field, so it may happen that the defects are due to workers improperhandling or dimension. So safety guidelines build after testing the modules can help to resolve the issue of warranty claims after installation.

• User: The user may be individual customer or utility. The user may not be aware of the reason of degradation so quality check with this kind of mobile PV Lab can give deep results with reason of degradation where claim to warranty can be initiated.

• G overnment Perspective: Government may want to setguidance for warranty terms and such kind of deep investigation can help to build guidance with detail survey which has compatibility with IEC Standards.

• Revenue: A 1GW plant with extra 1% degradation in the 3rd year of operation assuming average solar PV Tariff of $0.07/kWh if a 1MWp plant generates 1.60 million kWh/yr, 1% extra module degradation can cause loss in generationof 0.016millionkWh/yr. In a 1 GWp plant the generation loss would be 16millionkWh/yr which corresponds to $1.12 million per year. For remaining 22 years there would $24.64 million revenue loss in a 1GWp plant which is quite high.

Therefore, identifying faulty modules can save revenue loss by quality control.

Degradation OF PV Module There are many modes of degradation in a module which enforces the module to underperform or even affect life of the other modules in string. Some of the modes of degradation are discussed below: • Cell Degradation: This may be due to high series resistance or low shunt resistance in the module. Manufacturing defect is the cause of low shunt resistance in the module.

It can be identified by taking EL of the module. High series resistance can cause less voltage generation in the cell.

Transportation can cause cell damage which can degrade the module with time. Degradation of ARC coatings may be observed by brightening incolour of cell, this also may cause degradation of the cell • O ptical Degradation: Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, temperature or humidity can cause yellowing of encapsulate.

It can also occur due to diffusion of dirt and moisture ingress.

• Light Induced Degradation(LID): Light-induced degradation can be detected by continuously monitoring or by periodic measurement of IV characteristics.

• Temperature Induced Degradation: The irradiation emitted

by Sun is transferred into heat which causes temperature induced degradation of the module.

• Potential Induced degradation (PID): PID effect can also cause the entire string of module to degrade if not identified in the initial stage • Mismatchloss: This may arise due to bin class at the time of manufacturing and mismatch in Isc of the module in a string/Array & same will increased due to ageing • IAM: Over a period of time the Incident Angle Modifier have significate impact on performance due to deterioration of front glass layer.

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• S oiling: Soiling leads to mismatch issues in cell due to which cells may degrade and output of the module can be effected. It can also cause hotspot in modules due to which degradation of modules or bypass diode failure may occur, this may also permanently damage the module.

The degradation of the module depends on a number of parameters. Improper transportation can even produce cracks in good factory tested modules. Mismatch effect in modules or string not only causes power loss but also form hotspots which can degrade the module completely or more severe effects like sparkling or burning of modules can take place. If one of the modules is degraded, due to a mismatch in the string it can also degrade the other modules in the string. It is important to analyse the degradation cause in any plant so that effects can be minimized, and quality can be maintained.

Methodology approached for quality analysis using on-site mobile pv lab

Sustainability of PV plants can be achieved if the modules are checked for its quality and degraded modules are replaced.

This can only be done if the modules are surveyed periodically with the help of electrical characteristics, visual check, EL and IR of the PV modules. Figure 2: represents methodology for quality control in PV plant with mobile PV testing Lab. PV plant can be checked for its quality on timely basis with using this mobile PV Lab. The process of quality control initiates with identifying the modules to be tested. Identification of least performing PV string is done with the help of SCADA. If SCADA data is not available for small plants, identification of least performing string can be done by taking string I-V tracer. Depending on the performance of the string least and medium performing strings are selected for testing.

Visual Inspection of 10% modules from each plant has been performed. Furthermore, there were 20 sample modules from each type (Wp) selected from these inspected modules and were gone through Flash Testing.IR image of the PV module and string is taken to check the hotspot, faulty string, bypass diode failure affected module. After IR thermography inspection, the PV modules (sample as required) is tested in Standard Test Condition (STC) in on-site PV mobile. The measurement taken in Sun Simulator is compared with

nameplate / time zero data of the PV module to evaluated degradation characteristic of PV module. The temperature of the Lab is maintained at 25 °C and module is tested at AM 1.5 spectrum at 1000 W/m2 irradiance. The degradation in the module can be determined by the following: Degradtion(%/yr)=(Pmax2 -Pmax1)/(Pmax1 × Age of Module (in years))×100 Pmax2 - maximum power obtained during test in PV mobile test lab Pmax1 – Nameplate maximum power or time zero maximum power at STC. The EL measurements were done in a complete dark room to classify the micro cracks present in the module.

EL image of the module is taken in the lab which is used to detect defects in module i.e. to identify completely dead cells or partially defected cells. A co-relation between the results of IV of the module, IR image, EL & visual inspection is obtained to identify the problems in field and a proof to claim replacement of the modules if warranty conditions is not satisfied.

The mobile PV Lab has visited 57sites all over India till now and has tested different technologies and module make.The modules are surveyed depending on the requirement of site.

Figure 3:No. of Plants tested in different parts of India

Figure 3: represents number of plants tested in different parts of India. MSPL Solar Mobile PVTest Lab has a portfolio of more than 2GW plant from September-2017 to December-2018.

The results of the same is mentioned in below section.

Results

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Figure 2: Methodology for Quality control in PV plant with mobile PV testing Lab

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL | VOL 3 l ISSUE 07

Quality survey of the plant is initiated by shortlisting modules for testing from SCADA data. Selected samples go for testing and visual check of the module is performed to identify any defects on the module. A module with bird droppings can cause mismatch issues in module.

Figure 4: represents an IR Thermography image of ok module and module affected with hot-spot in field. The IR inspection of modules is done as per IEC 62446-3 temperature difference in cells leads to hot-spot which is detected by IR camera. This IR imaging of a module can detect hotspot

TECHNICAL FEATURE

or LID affected modules. Bypass diode failure or dead cells with high temperature can be detected using IR image.

IR image is taken in string level then modules with defects can be identified. It was observed that 0.06% modules per plant were found to have defects per year based on thermographic inspection.

Figure-4.a)Sample Thermography image of OK module

Figure-4.b)Sample Thermography image of not ok module

Figure 6: represents PIV(power, current, voltage) curve of a PV module at STC condition measured with help of Sun simulatorwhich give the electrical parameter of PV Modules as per IEC60904-1/IEC61215-4.1/IEC61646-10.1.

Figure 7: shows the average results of I-V characteristics test performed in mobile PV Lab Sun Simulator at STC condition where lab temperature was maintained at 25 °C. In each site 20nos (min sample of each Wp & type) of PV modules were tested and modules were divided into different make and technologies. Then average value of measured Pmax degradation was calculated for each manufacturer’s& history of PV Module data collected from different plants.

Figure 4:Detection of diode failure using IR thermography

Figure 5: represents the Electroluminescence (EL) image of PV modules. Figure 5.a) represent EL image of ok PV module and Figure 5.b) represent modules with cell crack. EL Test is necessary to identify faulty modules with cell cracks.The EL test was conducted to analyse the effect of installation onno of module cracks from pre-installation to post installation period.It was observed that after installation no of critical cracks increased by 0.1% (0.05% to 0.15%) which resulted into power generation loss between 2%-5%. Simultaneously,the Figure-5.a) Sample EL image of OK module

Figure 6:Measured PIV curve of a PV module at STC condition

Figure-5.b)Sample EL image of not ok module

no of noncritical cracks increased by 0.2% (0.15% to 0.35%) which hampers the power generation between 0-2%. The portfolio considered for this study was 2GW.

Figure 7: Average degradation rate observed in modules for different Technology Age-wise(%/ yr)( "-" minus shows degaradation w.r.t initial)

Figure 5: Sample EL image of one of the modules without &with cell cracks

The above graph shows Pmax degradation of module with outlier and without outlier.The performance of PV Module with degradation >1.2%/yr is considered as outlined modules as found various modules shown degradation upto 14% in 1st 3year of field operation. The modules were divided into various age group. Poly-Si modules with age 0-2 years showed a degradation of -1.68%/yr with LID effect, however modules with age group 2-5 years showed VOL 3 l ISSUE 07 | SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

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-0.91%/yr degradation. Approximately 5 % manufacturer’s Flash test results encountered with module degradation around 12% within first three years.

Thin-Film modules is found to have positive power in first 2 years, possibly due to over rating of modules. An average degradation of -0.62%/yr is seen in Thin-Film modules. It has been observed that after third year of operation even Teir-1 supplier’s module are degrading 4%-8% within a year, hence cumulative degradation of these modules becomes 8-12%/yr.

Conclusions

The on-site mobile PV Lab enables the testing of PV plant with the same efficiency as PV test Lab located remotely with added advantages of cutting down the handling loss of modules during transportation.

This PV mobile lab can help the testing domain of industries in India to get accurate test results with compatibility with IEC 17025 norms which is globally acceptable& this can empower the power of Sustainability in SPV Plant & Module manufactures. The whole idea has a potential to take ahead the power of sustainabilityin PV power plants.

PV mobile lab is future of market & can help the testing domain of industries in Global to get accurate & reliable

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test results. u T hermography inspection results shows that there are 0.06% modules are defected per plant per year u The EL tests shows that no of micro cracks increases (%) from pre installation to post installation which brings down the power generation of the respective string. u I n Flash test results it shows the Pmax degradation of healthy modules reflects 0.6% per year while the majority population (60%) of modules shows 2.6 times degradation than healthy modules. u R ecommended Periodic Testing is once a year on sampling basis u R evenue loss due to degradation in plants can be controlled with Periodic testing u P eriodic testing of PV modules will enable to take appropriate measures which will enhance the productivity of the plant. Hence, revenue will boost The degradation of Thin-film modules is found to be lower than poly-Si modules. Quality results within 2-3 days of testing are its asset, unlike traditional test in remotely located labs enable to maximize the plant performance with quick results. Replacement or warranty claim of modules can be initiated with the help of this lab hence repowering

INNOVATION UPDATES

IIT TO CO-DEVELOP SOLAR POWERED WATER GENERATOR

IIT Madras, in association with Teerthaa, a sustainability focused firm, has decided to develop an Atmospheric Water Generator device, powered by Solar Power.

Devices that can generate water from ambient air have been under development for such a long time that a whole category, called Atmospheric Water Generators or AWG, has been named for them.

By its very nature, these devices are required in places with poor access to water, and also, quality power. Hence, a majority of these devices so far had leaned on battery power packs, or even mechanical methods, to extract water from air. Also, most have been focused more on being easily mobile, as the use cases have been built around emergency uses or even military supplies. The IIT Madras and Teerthaa initiative, by going for solar power, is clearly looking for more semi permanent or use cases in areas where access is an issue for both clean water and power.

The MoU was signed last Wednesday by Ravindra Gettu, Dean (Industrial Consultancy and Sponsored Research), IIT-Madras, and Durga Das, CEO, Teerthaa.

Teerthaa, a firm earlier known as Akash Ganga, claims to have pioneered the technology of extracting water from thin air and delivered systems to 2,800 customers in the last 14 years saving six lakh litres of water every day, according to the release from IIT-Madras.

Called NERO, as it has been tentatively called, the team is looking for a product that meets Indian requirements of being low cost, efficient, and low maintainance, as solar generation

will also remove a lot of moving parts.

Durga Das, CEO of Teerthaa says, “We are interested in exploring and perfecting different technologies of Atmospheric Moisture Extraction (AME) as a part of our major national mission of availability of potable water for the masses. At present, we are producing AMEs based on vapour compression refrigeration technology in several output configurations. With NERO, we will bring to light and enhance the lives of millions of homes in the villages where water is scarce. Creating impact that reaches the masses is a mission very close to our hearts. We brought the 1st Indian built atmospheric water generator in India 14 years ago and hold a patent for the same. Now we will bring the first solution that will generate 4-5 litres of water without any electricity and maintenance free.”

Prof M.P. Maiya, who heads the refrigeration and air conditioning laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT-M adds that, “The proposed solar still based on desiccant technology traps water molecules from the atmospheric air during the night and yields water during the day by utilising solar energy.

It would be a boon to places where even the brackish water is not available.”

The tie-up is a welcome step for Indian entrepreneurs and research institutes to collaborate to solve global problems with made in India innovation. A low cost, efficient product like NERO has a large global market waiting for it, and with the International Solar Alliance (ISA) already in place, like solar water pumps, ready market access can be created much more faster today. Here's wishing the team luck!

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TECHNICAL FEATURE

OPTIMISE YOUR O&M PROCEDURES WITH IMPROVED PV ASSET MANAGEMENT

Implementing a solar plant dashboard for reduced Operation &Maintenance (O&M) costs and increased profitability

LIOR HANDELSMAN

Vice President of Marketing and Product Strategy|SolarEdge Would the average consumer invest in the stock market without real-time insight into financial performance? Not a chance. We live in a world that craves information, preferably easily accessible and digestible information, especially when it relates to a major financial decision.

Shouldn’t the same hold true for PV installations?

Commercial PV projects are increasingly seen as secure long-term investment opportunities. Like any financial asset, PV systems must be monitored and managed to realise their full potential.

With traditional string inverters, O&M providers have access to limited information. String level or system level monitoring can indicate underperformance of the array, but little else.

In order to inspect system issues, skilled technicians have to perform inefficient onsite troubleshooting on inverters operating under load and on DC lines at nearly 1500V. They connect expensive equipment to the arrays in an effort to ‘sift through the tea leaves’ of complex IV trace curves to detect issues.

Fortunately, the standard in PV monitoring has been optimised.

With MLPE (Module Level Power Electronics) devices, like power optimisers, O&M providers can remotely manage many of the issues. MLPE devices report module-level Voltage and Current at Max Power Point values on cloud-based monitoring platforms. This provides O&M companies high-resolution data on module-level performance to diagnose many issues, without the need to be onsite.

The most advanced PV monitoring and management solutions have the potential to take O&M from a manual, resourceintensive process to an automated, at-a-glance service. More than just a system overview, MLPE solutions deliver modulelevel insights and ensure a plant is performing to the best of its ability at all times. Intelligent, MLPE-supported cloud-based solutions also offer automated reports and alerts:

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• In-depth analytics and reporting on energy yield, system uptime and financial performance • Automated, pinpointed alerts for immediate fault detection • Remote diagnostics for smarter maintenance planning

Figure 1

For example, figure 1 identifies module 17 in string 1 of inverter 3 as underperforming compared to its neighbors. Module-level monitoring systems are able to detect underperformance like

Figure 2

TECHNICAL FEATURE

Figure 3

this and may be programmed to send automated alerts to the service providers.

Once alerted to the underperformance, the solar installer, with just a couple clicks of the mouse, can gather more data on the power, voltage, and current output of the problem module (figures 2 and 3). By comparing this module with others in the same array that are performing properly, the O&M provider can make determinations as to the possible failure modes.

With such precise data at their fingertips, solar professionals and system owners can now easily and accurately identify performance challenges (in the above case, likely a failed bypass diode) and rapidly resolve problems. The result is a winwin; solar installers can more efficiently manage portfolios from a central location and identify problems before setting foot at the project site. This gives O&M providers a “Know Before You Go” advantage. They can load the truck with the correct parts to fix the issue the first time. Less on-site maintenance calls (also known as “site visits”) for the professional means a lower support cost and the ability to support more sites more efficiently. Plus, system owners win, with less system downtime eating into their profits.

Since the MLPE devices are persistently connected to the array, they are able to store data in the cloud for the system’s entire lifetime. By analysing historical project data in a monitoring platform (figure 4), such as SolarEdge’s cloud-based monitoring platform, module-level monitoring and management tools can also help stakeholders evaluate and predict system performance, and financial returns, for a given period. This comparative year-over-year snapshot enables smarter financial planning for the system owner.

Figure 4. Comprehensive performance data, with year-over-year comparisons

and an indispensable component of lucrative long-term PV investments. n

With a mature yet growing solar market, India solar PV owners and installers have recognised the need to minimise risk and make better-informed decisions on how to support their PV assets for 20 years or more. With the breadth of capabilities offered, it’s no wonder that MLPE devices connected to cloud-based monitoring platforms are taking root as a defacto, dashboard-like solution for efficient problem solving, VOL 3 l ISSUE 07 | SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

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EVENTS ECOBUILD SOUTHEAST ASIA 2019

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Location : Glasgow, UK Phone : +44 20 82712179

START DATE : 22-May-2019 END DATE : 24-May-2019

Location : New Delhi, India Phone : +91 9711 737395

E-mail : ae.helpline@reedexpo.co.uk

E-mail : kulbeerg@eigroup.in

SOLAR ASSET MANAGEMENT ASIA

SNEC 13TH INTERNATIONAL PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER GENERATION & SMART ENERGY CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION

website : https://asia.solar-asset.management/ START DATE : 30-May-2019 END DATE : 31-May-2019

Location : Tokyo, Japan Phone : +31 10 3027910

website : www.snec.org.cn START DATE : 04-Jun-2019 END DATE : 06-Jun-2019

Location : Shanghai, China Phone : +86 21 53893020

E-mail : jens@solarplaza.com

E-mail : info@snec.org.cn

PV 2019 PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR EXHIBITION & FORUM

THE 11TH GUANGZHOU INTERNATIONAL SOLAR PV EXHIBITION 2019

website : www.pvfair.jp START DATE : 10-Jul-2019 END DATE : 13-Jul-2019

Location : Yokohama, Japan Phone : +81 3 52978855

E-mail : info@pvfair.jp

website : www.pvguangzhou.com START DATE : 16-Aug-2019 END DATE : 18-Aug-2019

E-mail : janicepv2018@gmail.com

RENEWABLE ENERGY INDIA EXPO 2019

INTERSOLAR INDIA 2019

website : www.renewableenergyindiaexpo.com

website : www.intersolar.in

START DATE : 18-Sep-2019 END DATE : 20-Sep-2019 E-mail : Pankaj.sharma@ubm.com

Location : Guangzhou, China Phone : +20 2918 8152

Location : Greater Noida, India Phone : +91 99 90962410

START DATE : 27-NOV-2019 END DATE : 29-NOV-2019

Location : Bangalore, India Phone : +49 7231 58598215

E-mail : feth@solarpromotion.com

OPED

DOUBLET MODULE – THE MAGIC OF TWO! MR. SUNIL RATHI

Director- Sales and Marketing Waaree Energies ltd With the widespread adaptation of solar energy in early 21st century, it was clear that solar photovoltaic (PV) shall be the next big source of energy in world’s energy mix. While its advantages were obvious, the global energy market started seeking out a more superior PV module. Efforts were made in almost all the field, right from adopting the more efficient solar cell already developed in labs, using glass with an ARC coating, enhancing backsheet or improving the properties of encapsulant. Other than upgrading the bill of material (BOM) of a solar PV panel, sincere efforts were made in upgrading the electrical equipment’s which directly and/or indirectly upgraded the overall output from the solar plant. While all these changes were being implemented, the design or construction of a solar module remained more or less the same i.e. 60 or 72 full cells interconnected in series with each other (Figure 1 left side). However with a deeper technological drive to obtain more power output the available resources, a simple yet and a novel design upgradation in the design of solar module was developed. The upgraded design of the solar PV module utilized half cut cells instead of full cells. Further these half cut cells were not all inter-connected in series but a set of series connected half cut cells were interconnected in parallel with other. To simply, the doublet module (Figure 1 on right) consist two module of half cut cell connected in parallel with each other. With such novel arrangement the final output of such module remains almost the same thus making the module being installed without making significant changes to the plant’s balance of system. However, other than this, the doublet modules have numerous advantages which are mentioned as below.

Significant reduction in resistive losses

The current output from a solar cell is dependent on the number of light particles (photons) falling on it which further depends on the area of the cell. Thus increasing the area of cell directly increases the current output of solar cell. The doublet module uses half cut cell which directly halves the current output from the cell. Halving the current from the cell has a significant effect on the resistive losses of the module.

The resistive power loss is directly proportional to the square of the current flowing through (or generated by) the cells. Halving the current reduces the resistive losses of the module by one fourth (refer Figure 2). Primarily this reduction in resistive losses directly reduces the nominal module operating temperature (NMOT) (NMOT denotes the operational temperature of the module when under operation in the field). Further, such decrease in the resistive losses directly leads to an increase of efficiency of module by around 1%. Additionally, such gain is improved significantly with increase in irradiance as the current output of the module is directly proportional to the irradiance.

Figure 2: Resistive losses in doublet module

Advantages of enhanced design

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Figure 1: Traditional full cell module (on left) and half cut cell based Doublet module (on right) by Waaree Energies

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The constructional changes of the half cut cell based doublet modules are numerous. Firstly as mentioned above, the doublet module have significant reduction in resistive losses.

Further the doublet module has increased open area when compared to the traditional module. This allows more light to be reflected into the module from the backsheet which enables enhanced power generation from the module.

Further the compared to the traditional module, the exited

OPED

electrons in the doublet module have to travel almost half the distance before they are connected at the module’s junction box (JB). Comparing to traditional module, the electron faces less resistance which further increases the power output of the module (refer to Figure 3). Further such constructional change also enables the module to perform better in shade which is explained in the next section.

Figure 3: The path travelled by exited electron in traditional module (on left) and doublet module (on right)

Better performance in shade

The solar modules are installed in such a way that their generation is not hampered by shadow at any point of time.

However within its lifetime of 25 years, there may be times when a module or the string experiences shadow. Such shadow may be due to many reasons such as expansion of nearby building, shadow due to nearby trees, bird shit, cloudy atmospheric conditions etc. which may be temporary, for few days or even permanent. Shadow even if on any cell(s) in the string hampers the generation of the string and hence the solar module. Longer exposures to shadow causes hotspots and thus the modules are fitted with reverse protection bypass diodes (read our blog on “Mismatch in Solar Cells & Modules” for further information). Considering normal operation, both the traditional and doublet module produces the desired power output. Let us now consider that the lower half of solar module is in shadow. All the strings of the traditional module are under performing and hence all the 3 bypass diodes of the module are activated resulting in zero power output from the module. In case of doublet module, the bypass diode is in between the two strings of upper and lower half of module.

While the lower half is under shadow, the upper half of the module is continuously generating power. Hence, none of the bypass diode is activated and the module generates half of its rated power.

Advantages of using split junction box

A junction box (JB) houses electrical interconnection within the string of the module. It also houses bypass diode(s) (reverse biased) which protects the module from generating hotspot in case of shadow. A typical split type JB consists of three separate boxes collecting current from separate strings. This primarily leads to better dissipation of heat from the JB. Further

Figure 4: Effect of shadow on traditional and doublet module

the split type junction boxes have reduced cable length at their output i.e. around 0.5 meter from the 1.2 meter cable length of traditional JB. Also as discussed in previous section, the doublet module keeps performing even when in shade.

This enables the bypass to be less active as compared to traditional modules. This could overall enhance the life of the bypass diode and further the solar module.

Figure 5: A typical split type JB

Waaree Energies have understood the advantages of half cut cell module and have introduced their half cut based doublet module both in mono/multi crystalline and PERC based solar cells. With the given advancements in solar module technology, we believe that it’s time when the end customer gets the maximum energy output. Additionally, our stringent quality checks also ensures that the reliability of the module is not compromised at any stage in manufacturing or when performing in the field.

Let us all pledge to make solar energy the primary source of energy in the near future.

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FINANCE UPDATES

EIB, SANTANDER TO GIVE €50MN FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY The European Investment Bank (EIB) and Santander España are providing businesses and the self-employed with a credit line – including EUR 50 million of EIB funds – for professional projects improving energy efficiency. This is a pioneering project for the Spanish financial system, developed by Banco Santander in partnership with the EIB and the European Commission.

The agreement is part of the financing instrument implemented by the European Commission to promote investments contributing to better energy efficiency and climate action (Private Finance for Energy Efficiency) and falls under Banco Santander’s Responsible Banking strategy and its commitment to sustainability.

Companies using this credit line will be able to benefit from the EIB’s favourable financing conditions in terms of both interest rates and maturities to perform the necessary upgrades to improve their energy efficiency. It also has a technical advisory component to support and strengthen Banco Santander’s capacity to assess energy efficiency projects and

estimate their energy savings.

This new credit line, which will be implemented in the form of a loan or leasing, targets modernisation projects delivering energy efficiency improvements by tailoring energy use to actual realtime needs, for example by replacing inefficient lighting with LED equivalents, installing thermal insulation in roofs and facades, replacing air conditioning systems, installing thermal solar power, automating buildings and replacing conventional windows with double glazed alternatives with a thermal break.

These improvements will help to cut polluting emissions and increase the use of renewable energy by facilitating the

installation of solar panels, for example.

The investments will also enable companies and self-employed to reduce their energy bills. Energy costs represent a considerable share of a company’s operating expenses, meaning that investment in measures enabling more rational energy use generates significant savings of between 10% and 30% on the final energy bill. These funds can then be directed to other investments to improve businesses’ quality and competitiveness.

Amounts of between EUR 10 000 and EUR 5m are eligible for financing with a maturity of between three and ten years, with the option of a one or two-year grace period depending on the financing period. The energy efficiency investment project cannot exceed EUR 10m in total.

The European Commission and EIB have developed a simulator for Banco Santander enabling customers to validate their project via the bank’s website (www. bancosantander.es). The simulator records key information about the company, the project cost, the type of eligible investment and the current energy use.

EVERSOURCE, NIIF TO INVEST $330MN IN CDC’S AYANA

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EverSource Capital (a joint venture between Everstone Capital and Lightsource BP) and the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund of India (NIIF) have announced a partnership with UK-based Finance Institution CDC Group, to invest a cumulative $330 million (Rs 2341 crore) in its renewable energy platform, Ayana Renewable Power.

EverSource Capital manages the $700 million Green Growth Equity Fund (GGEF), which has NIIF and the UK government as anchor LPs. Ayana was launched to develop utility-scale solar and wind generation projects across growth states in India. It is currently constructing 500 MW of solar generation capacity with a strong future pipeline of renewable energy opportunities. With a management team that has a track record of successful execution of renewable energy projects, Ayana is well placed to play an important role in India’s ambition to build 175 GW SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL | VOL 3 l ISSUE 07

of renewable energy capacity.

CDC’s Head of Asia, Mr. Srini Nagarajan, said, “CDC’s commitment to climate change was key in the innovation of Ayana last year and its alignment with the global goals. We are delighted we achieved our early objective to attract fresh capital and we are proud to partner with NIIF and EverSource Capital. Their domestic expertise will further strengthen Ayana and support its mission in developing affordable and accessible renewable energy across India.”

This investment is a part of CDC’s commitment to invest a further $ 1.7 billion in India and neighbouring countries over the next three years. “Within infrastructure, we see further opportunities to provide investment to businesses operating within power generation, power transmission and distribution, transport, the gas midstream, and the water sector,” Nagarajan added.

Sujoy Bose, MD & CEO, NIIF, said, “The

Indian renewable energy sector has seen strong traction underpinned by healthy capacity additions with globally competitive tariffs. We are pleased to be partnering with CDC and EverSource Capital and backing a strong management team with a successful track record of developing renewable energy in India. We look forward to working with our partners who bring complementary strengths and substantial capital to the platform.”

Dhanpal Jhaveri, CEO, EverSource Capital, said, “This partnership brings together like-minded institutional, climate focussed and experienced partners. EverSource has a deep understanding of renewables business with an extensive track record of scaling up world-class businesses in India and will provide strategic and operational value add to Ayana in building a high quality rapidly scalable utility-grade renewable energy business.”

FINANCE UPDATES

SIEMENS PICKS 46% STAKE IN 200MW POOVANI PROJECT German power and energy major Siemens confirmed that its financial services arm has picked up 46 percent stake in Greenko Group’s 200 MW Poovani wind power project in Tamil Nadu for an undisclosed amount.

Its financial subsidiary Siemens Financial Services (SFS) has signed a definitive agreement with Greenko Group for the 46 percent equity investment, making this its first investment in a wind farm in Asia, the company said in a statement issued here.

For Greenko, the deal, coming after its own acquisition of Delhi-based Orange Renewables for almost a billion dollars, this will be a welcome move, to keep its financial leverage in control. Besides the potential in a long term engagement with Siemens. The Hyderabad based Greenko has an existing portfolio of 4.5 GW of Wind and Hydro assets, and a pipeline of projects worth close to 8GW. The Siemens deal, once closed, will add to its impressive roster of investors, that include the Abu Dhabi Investment trust, Singapore’s GIC, TPG growth, and EIG Global Energy Partners.

“Completing our first equity investment in renewables in the region further underscores our company’s commitment to bringing optimal energy solutions to India backed by innovative Siemens Gamesa Technology, Siemens Financial Services chief financial officer of Energy Finance Steffen Grosse said.

The company, however, did not disclose the amount it has invested for the equity stake. Typical valuations in the wind energy sector have been in the region of Rs 7-9 crores per MW of installed capacity.

The Poovani project is backed by Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) and involves installation of 100 units of Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy’s SG 2.0 - 114 wind

turbines in Tamil Nadu.

Clean and affordable energy generated from this project will offset around 651,000 tonne of CO2 from environment and electrify nearly 155,000 households annually.

Speaking on the development, Anil Kumar Chalamalasetty, chief executive officer and MD of Greenko Group, said that “attracting an equity investment from Siemens Financial Services demonstrates the evolution of the Indian energy market with inter-state transmission of renewable energy, confidence of international financial institutions on project and technical capabilities and the necessary regulatory frameworks to further support growth.”

The deal also signals a welcome return of big ticket equity investments in the renewables sector, where developers had increasingly started scouting for debt deals recently.

L&T CONSTRUCTION BAGS CONTRACTS FOR PT&D BIZ

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The construction arm of Larsen & Toubro, L&T Construction, has secured a number of Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) orders worth Rs 1,000 crore to Rs 2,500 crore for its power transmission & distribution (PT&D) business in India and abroad.

The company has bagged orders for design and construction of two 400kV substations and associated transmission lines in Andhra Pradesh (AP).

Further, these substations and connected transmission systems form part of the 400kV ring network being implemented to ensure uninterrupted power supply for the AP state’s new capital city, Amaravathi.

The company has secured another project for the Phase-II of Bangalore Metro, to execute the Receiving SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL | VOL 3 l ISSUE 07

Substations and the Extra High Voltage cables from Grid Stations.

Another order has been bagged by the company to execute the power supply system and SCADA works for Mumbai Metro Line 7.

Additionally, it has bagged another order for the design and construction of a 15MW grid-connected floating solar farm under Visakhapatnam Smart City project. It is among the biggest floating solar projects in India.

Moreover, EPC orders have been secured by the company from reputed developers for the implementation of solar power generating systems totalling 200MW in the state of Tamil Nadu.

Meanwhile, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), it has bagged an order for the construction, supply, installation, testing

and commissioning of a 132/11kV Substation and its associated works.

Last month, an order has been secured by the company in UAE for the construction, supply, installation, testing and commissioning of a 132/11kV Substation and associated works. The PT&D business has also won an order for a 132kV Cable Circuit.

Besides, in India, it has won an order to convert overhead lines of a power distribution system to an underground cabling system in the cyclone-prone coastal town of Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu.

The company has received another transmission line package from Bihar State Power Transmission Company Ltd. Besides, the PT&D business has also secured add-on orders from some of its existing transmission line projects.

THE CONVERSATION

SHALINI SINGH

Chief - Corporate Communications & Sustainability|Tata Power NURTURING QUALITY IS TAD STRONGER IN WOMEN THAN MEN There is an intrinsic advantage in being a woman-leader in the sustainability & CSR space. Without generalising to a point of fault, I think it would be fair to say that the nurturing quality is a tad stronger in women than men, purely from a standpoint of natural disposition, believes Shalini Singh, Chief - Corporate Communications & Sustainability, Tata Power, part of Tata group and a leading player in the electric utility space. In conversation with Manu Tayal, Associate Editor, Saur Energy International, Singh shared her views on various topics related to women in the solar space. Following are the excerpts from that exclusive interview.

Q

Q

At Tata Power I play a dual role of Chief of Corporate Communications and Chief of Sustainability which comprises of Sustainability and CSR initiatives. I am also the Managing Trustee and CEO of Tata Power Community Development and Chief of Tata Power Skill Development Centre. I have been with Tata Power for over 15 years now and have been a women director on the board of subsidiaries such as Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited and Solar MP Limited. Before joining Tata, I worked in the communications space for various bluechips like Accenture, Arvind Mills, Airtel (Bharti Group) and Kale Consultants.

What makes my current role in Tata Power unique and exciting is the other hat I wear as Chief-Sustainability, CSR & Chief-Skill development centre. I consider this unique because of the larger role and the potential impact it can have on the world at large. Today we have women in jobs that were considered a no-go area for long. Women have proven time and again that there is no such job that only a man can do. But this can be easily misunderstood as confrontational or doing it to prove a point. To me it is much more than that. Irrespective of gender every professional worth her or his salt, deep down, wants to make a difference in the world, that is, beyond what the job role demands. But how many get such an opportunity and that too not only as a team member but as one who leads.

I believe there is also an intrinsic advantage in being a womanleader in the sustainability & CSR space. Without generalising to a point of fault, I think it would be fair to say that the nurturing quality is a tad stronger in women than men, purely from a standpoint of natural disposition. So to make the best out of skills I have acquired and honed as a communicator along with certain advantages natured has bestowed seemed like a good way forward to have a meaningful and fulfilling career.

So the renewable business within one of India’s largest energy companies is perhaps the best option for someone like me. I am also on the Niti Ayog’s committee for Women Entrepreneurship Committee.

Not just solar, but in the larger context of renewable energy, women have unprecedented opportunities to tap into today. As a mass movement (that is greater adoption of renewable energy across the world), this is certainly a sunrise industry. Being new, it does not suffer the same level prejudices other more traditional sectors suffer from. Before getting into specific success stories within Tata Power, it is necessary to understand why women are a natural fit in this space. As key decision makers at home, as caregivers, as entrepreneurs and also as leaders within the communities, women have a big role to play in the renewable space. There is a strong advocacy element that comes with this role. Whether we like it or not, a push for behavioural changes, like adopting a clean energy lifestyle, finds greater acceptance when it comes from women. This unique consumer psyche is in fact universal. Today renewable energy is finding greater acceptance among new consumers in the market. This new ‘Reflex Generation’ are more demanding than their parents or those from an earlier generation. This generation quite rightly expects brands not only keep an eye on prices but also how they do their business in terms of impact on the community, environment etc. This generation also has some influence in their ecosystem ie their parents etc to enable them to adopt renewable, something they probably would have never considered on their own. This is a big advantage that must be exploited to its fullest measure possible because the outcome will help the world move toward a cleaner environment and fight the scourge of global warming and its consequences on human survival.

At an anecdotal level, I can give you several examples that will encourage other women to join hands in the renewable energy movement. For example, Tata Power’s Club Enerji program that targeted school children, parents, teachers and school administrators with the message of energy conservation and sustainability. The success of this outreach from Tata Power is quite significant. Today we have covered over 530 schools

What prompted you to come into the renewable sector? Also tell us something about your journey as working woman.

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Share some of your experiences in the solar industry that will encourage other women to join the sector?

THE CONVERSATION

nationwide, sensitizing over 19 million participants and saving more than 25 million units of energy. Remember, we had started this project as a pilot in just 12 schools in Mumbai in 2007. Also today we also have over 1500 Mini Clubs that has managed to create 238,385 Energy Champions, and 283,473 Energy Ambassadors, making it one of Tata Power’s most successful community support initiatives.

Similarly our resource conservation program lays emphasis on saving water, fuel, paper and electricity targeting the youth and influencers in their lives like teachers, parents etc. This program was piloted in 2011-12 and is advocated on five essential pillars -- afforestation, waste management and energy, fuel and water conservation. In 2012-13, after successfully piloting this program, we took it nationwide and it is truly making a difference in the lives of people at large. Outside the energy space, our work in the conservation of biodiversity is also making a big difference to women.

The Act for Mahseer (fish), among other objectives, helps women in rural India find an alternative source of livelihood even while they work in farms.

This is perhaps women empowerment at its best, literally teaching them how to fish than provide one for the next meal!

Q

In your view, what should be done to increase the overall women participation in the industry?

There is a lot we can do. Participation in the renewable energy need not take only the formal route. Creating an ecosystem for training women to become an integral part of the renewable energy sector will be the first big step. We are already doing this and a lot more can be done here in terms of reach. As mentioned earlier, women are a perfect fit for bringing about behavioral changes when it comes to how we consumer energy in our daily lives. So in the area of advocacy, all the way up to the village level, women can be the change agents at grassroot level. Creating targeted self-help groups is another initiative that can be taken up nationally. All of these are interconnected and policy and decision makers at a national and global level must look at them like that, because it not only moves the world to a cleaner future but also a fairer and sensible one in terms of creating opportunities for women.

Q

A working women has to look after her family and office both simultaneously. How do you balance this?

The choices women have today is far wider than what it was earlier. Career or family is also not a very binary as it is made out to be where women have to choose between just these two.

I agree we have a long way to go where women can have both and perform both these roles well and enjoy a more holistic life. I think it is simply a question of balancing these two without taking too much pressure from either side. Many are doing it quite well. But as a society we also need to create a fairer ecosystem for women to pursue a career and a wholesome family life without compromising too much on either. For example, we still don’t have a very conducive environment for women who wish to take a break to start a new family and wish to come back to work after a couple of years break. This not only deprives the country of the benefits of a healthy and productive citizens but is also not fair to women who carry this cross entirely on their own.

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PRODUCTS & LAUNCHES

SIEMENS AG LAUNCHES JUNELIGHT SMART BATTERY Siemens AG, Europe’s largest industrial manufacturing company has made its move into the battery storage system segment with the launch of its Junelight Smart Battery System recently.

With the Junelight Smart Battery, Siemens is offering its first battery storage specially geared to the requirements in private homes for the storage and use of self-generated energy. The lithium-ion storage combines functions for intelligent and safe energy management and modern design. Homeowners can use it to maximise the share of their self-generated energy, e.g. from photovoltaic systems, for their own consumption, to minimise their energy procurement costs and to make a long-term contribution towards the reduction of CO2 emissions.

The Junelight Smart Battery coordinates the predictive charging and discharging procedures depending on the weather-related yield forecast of the photovoltaic system and the individual consumption profile of the household.

Using the mobile Junelight Smart App, all energy flows – from production, through storage, right down to consumption and grid in-feed – can always be monitored in real time.

The storage capacity can be flexibly adapted to individual needs at any time, encompassing up to 19.8-kilowatt hours (kWh). The Junelight Smart Battery is now available in Germany and will be launched in Austria in April 2019.

When charging and discharging the battery, the Junelight Smart Battery automatically takes user-specific weather and consumption forecasts into account. This means the battery is only completely charged in times with high photovoltaic power dissipation, thus minimizing power losses. The high quality and safety of the Junelight Smart Battery have been

confirmed by the VDE Association for Electrical, Electronic and Information Technologies: both the manufacturing process and the complete system have been certified according to all relevant standards. In addition, each software update is tested by the VDE in terms of safety-relevant influences. This guarantees maximum safety for both persons and buildings.

The capacity of the Junelight Smart Battery allows for unlimited modular expansion at any time: up to six battery units with a net capacity of 3.3 kWh each can be retrofitted and flexibly adapted to changes in consumer behaviour, e.g. when connecting heat pumps or charging electric vehicles.

PVILLION CREATED NEW SOLAR POWER CANOPY PRODUCT

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Brooklyn-based flexible solar structures and products manufacturer Pvillion has created a new solar power canopy product the “Pvilion Solar Sail Canopy”.

Using its proprietary lamination process, coupled with its expertise in tensile structure design, the has developed a permanent solar-powered canopy product that is scalable for providing its user’s shade and a source of power when needed.

These innovative lightweight structures not only provide shade and solar energy but LED lighting and mobile charging using built-in USB ports. Either grid-tied or off-grid, Pvilion’s canopies are customisable with scalable battery back-up systems depending on the installation needs.

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comes with a 15 A charge controller, 2 USB type electronic device ports, 2 LED wash lights and an 800 W rating for the solar energy output.

The cantilevered double pole solar sail simultaneously provides shelter, shade,

and energy.

Ideal for placing over benches, seating, tables, and gathering spaces. With the design allowing free movement in and around the structure. It comes with a 500W solar energy output rating and similar configuration of ports and controller.

The products come with a 20-year material warranty, and a solar output warranty of 80 percent rated power after 20-years of use.

“It’s a pretty basic concept – it’s a surface that’s getting hit by the sun all day and previously wasn’t creating electricity.

Now it is,” explains Colin Touhey, CEO of Pvilion. “We’re taking areas that get hit by the sun, providing shading and putting solar cells on them to serve a multi-purpose.”

PRODUCTS & LAUNCHES

SOLIOM'S WIRELESS SOLAR HOME SECURITY CAMERA Soliom Outdoor Wireless Solar Home security camera, the company claims is the world’s first solar powered wire-free Wi-Fi wireless camera.

The S60 camera has a built-in 4000 mah battery which needs to be conventionally charged once during the setup phase and beyond which if placed in an area with sufficient (2 hours) sunlight every day the camera will remain perpetually charged using the panels retrofitted to the system.

The S6O features two-way talk, night vision, local storage, sensitive motion detection, and many more features. It is capable of recording videos at 1080p and is enabled with free cloud storage for the latest 20 videos recorded by the device. Soliom S60 has two ways of motion detection

technology integrated (PIR & RADAR).

With its 0.7-second amazing fast trigger speed allows you to catch any motion and less false alarm. The camera when triggered records 8-second videos which can be locally stored, or a microSD card can be added to the system to record longer videos (25 seconds).

The S60 has a full HD daytime video quality

with the refined 5 layers of a glass lens. It also incorporates high quality LED lights to enhance the night vision. It has a max 30-49ft (10-15m) night vision distance and automatically switches from day to night mode.

Soliom S60 is wi-fi enabled wireless IP camera with Soliom free app to remotely monitor yard entrance and/or property at any time with live view video. Two-way audio allows the user to hear and speak to anyone near the system.

The camera unit is IP66 weatherproof rated and can withstand rain and snow, with a temperature range of operation between -20o and 60o.

The Soliom S60 is available online for $149 dollars on the company’s website and is applicable for worldwide shipping.

SOFAR SOLAR READY TO LAUNCH ITS 3RD GEN INVERTER

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Sofar Solar, one of the leading string inverter companies in China, has revealed that it plans to launch its latest third generation inverter “SOFAR 1-3.3KWG3” at the Solar Solution exhibition to be held in the Netherlands from March 19 to March 21, 2019.

The new model includes SOFAR1100TL-G3, SOFAR1600TL-G3, SOFAR2200TL-G3, SOFAR2700TL-G3, and SOFAR3300TL-G3.

The company claims the new inverter has the following advantages: Firstly, the G3 inverter of Sofar solar has a milky white appearance, simple and generous design, which can help better integrating into the home environment and bring modern science and technology to owners.

Besides, the G3 inverter of Sofar solar fully customizes modular hardware system.

The smart use of internal space, close arrangement of rules and reasonable optimization of internal space make the whole machine smaller in size and lighter in weight. For the installer, one-hand installation can be achieved.

What is more, the G3 inverter of Sofar solar has a unique core design and important components choose world famous brand which can keep the device design margin sufficiently and ensure long service life.

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Afterward, the G3 inverter owns 97.7% max efficiency and has ultra-high switching frequency design, wide input voltage range, DC support 1.4 times over, to Improve machine performance and increase user revenue.

As well as providing customers with a higher quality inverter, the chassis of the inverter is designed with all aluminum, and the input, output, and communication interfaces are designed with lightning protection, the whole machine has IP65.

Finally, the G3 inverter with rich

communication ports, such as WIFI/ GPRS/Ethernet/RS485 can be selected flexibly to realize Intelligent control, which helps user keeping track of the operation of the power station at any time by downloading the Solarman APP. The Solar Solutions exhibition plays an important part in energy exhibition of Western Europe. It attracts thousands of visitors, such as producers, importers, resellers, installers, property-project owners.

Most notably, many of the company’s new products and technologies will be announced at this exhibition.

SOLARMAXX BRINGS A SOLAR CARPORT AT MAHAVEER CANCER HOSPITAL

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Solar Installations over your car parking areas, or carports as they are known, offer a convenient and effective option for institutions to start their solar journey.

Here, we have the case of a healthcare institution traveling down that path.

SolarMaxx, a leading PV module manufacturer in the country, has installed a solar carport at Mahaveer Cancer Hospital in Jaipur.

Solar Maxx claims that the 120 kW installation will save the hospital close to Rs 13 lakhs annually on its power bills.

The system incorporates an ABB inverter along with an all-in-one sun-to-socket portfolio backed by a comprehensive package of communication, monitoring and control solutions and services. It also produces higher power output and optimised Levelised Costs of Electricity (LCOE) and plant productivity.

Like most new installtions today, the SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL | VOL 3 l ISSUE 07

system offers real time information with its Remote Solar Monitoring System capable of analysing energy consumption and generation, optimising energy usage, various performance parameters, supervise the functioning and progress of the components of a solar power plant.

Beyond monitoring the energy consumption of the plant, SolarMAXX claims that the monitoring system also offers many tools to help detect problems and defects with panel strings, and recommend repairs to the setup.

Earlier, in January 2018, in order to use clean energy for water pumping, street lights, treatment plants, hospitals, public health centres, administrative buildings, treatment plants, community centres and libraries the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) announced that it will be using solar power to fulfill its energy demands in a year.

In November last year, Skoda Auto had also gone for a Carport at its Aurangabad plant, installed by Fourth Partner Eergy.

In January 2019, Growatt, a global leader in inverter technology, donated its inverter, the 20KTL3-S for the rooftop solar plant at the Indore Cancer Foundation Charitable Trust (ICF), a not-for-profit charitable organisation in central India.

To reduce carbon footprint and power its facilities with clean energy, ICF proposed an initiative of a 20kW solar plant on the rooftop.

After learning about the program, the inverter firm donated a 20kW inverter, while also working with other parties to contribute to this solar project. The 20kW rooftop project is expected to produce an energy output of approximately 32,000kWh annually, which will provide electrical power for the whole facility and help cut the bills.

OPPORTUNITIES

DGM-Sales (Rooftop Solar), Ardent Executive Search (OPC) Pvt. Ltd. Ardent Executive Search (OPC) Pvt. Ltd., a reputed company in the field of solar and power prod-ucts/projects is looking for a DGM-Sales (Rooftop Solar) for its Noida office.

The qualification criteria for eligible candidates is a degree in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering followed by M.B.A., and a minimum work experience of 15 years with experience in solar rooftop sales, having held a senior sales manager position previously.

The salary package for selected candidate will be in the range of Rs 12-16 lakhs (pa) Key responsibilities and duties will include: 1. To comb the geographies extensively and enter into the dialogue with the prospective customers.

2. B uilding enduring relationship with the existing and new clients and key accounts.

3. T o liaison with the State SNA and DISCOM for approvals and sanctions.

4. T o establish strategic tie-ups and to create a web of channel partners for deeper penetration.

5. To represent the organisation in local conferences and seminars.

Apply for the post here. https://bit.ly/2W6jlAV

External Technology Innovation Lead, ReNew Power Renew Power Ltd., India's largest renewable energy IPP (Independent Power Producer) with a ca-pacity of over 6,500 MW of wind and solar power assets across the country, is looking for an Ex-ternal Technology Innovation Lead for its corporate office in Gurugram.

The qualification criteria for eligible candidates is a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in a scientific, engineering, or other quantitative discipline, and a minimum work experience of 7 years, with expe-rience working on technology initiatives in the commercial world. The salary package for selected candidates has not been revealed by the company.

Key responsibilities and duties will include: 1. Working with the CTO and ReNew senior leadership to deeply understand ReNew’s technology needs and define a multi-year strategic roadmap for technological innovation.

2. S cout the landscape of clean energy innovation by conducting research across subscription data-bases, attending conferences, and maintaining close links with partners around the world; distrib-ute a weekly newsletter to senior management.

3. Prepare proposals for developing and implementing novel

technologies at ReNew and present them at ReNew’s Technology Review Steering Committee, which brings together business lead-ers across the organisation to review funding proposals for new technology initiatives.

4. Drive cross-functional project teams to execute technology development projects.

5. Evaluate strategic investment and partnership opportunities with start-ups around the world.

6. Conduct due diligence on opportunities in new technologies and markets.

7. P resent alongside the CTO at quarterly technology presentations to ReNew’s senior leadership.

8. Interact with technology vendors and partners in India and abroad to source exciting partnership opportunities for enhancing ReNew’s technology capabilities.

Apply for the post here. https://bit.ly/2F9NBUY

Manager Civil Engineering - Solar, Siemens Gamesa Renewable Power Pvt. Ltd. Siemens Gamesa Renewable Power Pvt. Ltd., a global technological leader in the wind industry with an installed base of 75 GW worldwide, is looking for a Manager Civil Engineering (Solar) for its office in Chennai.

The qualification criteria for eligible candidates is a bachelor’s degree in Civil engineering followed by a masters in the same field, and a minimum work experience 12-17 years with experience in solar segment.

Drawing its expertise from wind, Siemens Gamesa India entered into solar business in 2015 offering a wide spectrum of Solar EPC Solutions. As of today, Siemens Gamesa India has commissioned over 500 MW of solar power projects in India & is currently executing a few large projects.

The salary package for selected candidates has not been revealed by the company.

Key responsibilities and duties will include: 1. Detailed knowledge on Module mounting Structure (MMS) design, 2. Handling customer queries on technical aspects & Decision making, 3. Able to highlight potential risks in contracts and methods to mitigate the same, 4. Propose cost effective solutions and has good understanding on Solar Energy market, 5. To visit Site and appraise the same, 6. Foundation design for civil buildings, 7. Design of Module cleaning systems /Robotic cleaning / latest cleaning technology in recent mar-ket.

Apply for the post here. https://bit.ly/2WcPebp VOL 3 l ISSUE 07 | SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

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TURNKEY SOLUTION PROVIDER *PAN India Presence *Complete Solution in Ground Base & Rooftop *Coming with EV Charging Station

1111, 11th floor, Unitech Arcadia, South City-2, Sector-49, Gurgoan-122018 Mobile: +91-9871115441 | Landline: Direct (0124)-4377220 Landline Office: (0124)-428990 | pawan@raditeenergy.com | info@raditeenergy.com