Solar

Solar SPECIALREPORT

APRIL 26, 2012

Sustainablepower TOWARDS A GREEN FUTURE

EDITORIAL

Executive Editor Patrick Michael Supplements Editor Suchitra Steven Samuel Reporter Farhana Chowdhury

SPECIAL REPORT APRIL 26, 2012

PRODUCTION

Designers Mohammad Ejaz Khan Sidharthan Imaging Venugopal Prabhu

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CONTENTS Solar for energy sustainability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Experts in solar and PV electricity assessment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Mitigating risk and maximising profits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Solar system from a single source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Eco-friendly energy solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Solar industry needs support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Aiming for cost control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Solar power basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Education in renewable energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Dedication to green concepts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Swiss offers solar technology for Dubai abras . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Broadening scopes for eco-consciousness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Solar power station in Spain works at night . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Empowering women in rural areas through education . . . . . . .

Building the nation with new technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

04 05 06 08 10 12 13 14 15 16 18 19 20 21 22

SOLAR

Solar for energy sustainability As solar prices continue to fall and technology continues to improve, it is going to become an increasingly viable and sustainable source of energy Vahid Fotuhi

O

n a per capita basis, UAE residents consume more electricity than almost anyone else on the planet – certainly much more than people in Europe, Asia or North America. Alarmingly, our consumption is climbing higher and higher. In 2011, peak electricity demand in Abu Dhabi grew by almost 14 per cent, one of the highest in the world. And according to official government forecasts, demand is expected to continue growing by over 10 per cent until at least 2019.

Vahid Fotuhi This surge in demand is fuelled by rapid growth in the industrial sector (aluminium smelters, petrochemical plants, etc), residential and commercial megaprojects, higher requirements from ADNOC for oil and gas production, and larger transfers to the Northern Emirates. In 2013, the ‘export’ of electricity from Abu Dhabi to the Northern Emirates is expected to soar from 2,000 MW to over 3,500 MW. The big question is: will supply keep up with demand?

04

The answer is not encouraging. Most of the power plants in the UAE run on natural gas.

And despite sitting on the world’s fourth largest natural gas reserves, the UAE is finding it hard to get the stuff out of the ground fast enough.

The problem in due to country’s sub-surface DNA. A significant portion of gas reserves are in associated oil deposits that makes gas production more challenging. It is like trying to eat Jell-O using a straw.

Much of the gas is also ‘sour’, high in sulphur content, which makes it more costly to extract and process.

Faced with a periodic shortage of gas domestically and an inability to source cheap gas within the region, Abu Dhabi has had to turn to diesel. The trouble with using diesel is that it costs a lot more and the CO2 emissions are higher. For example, the cost of producing electricity in Abu Dhabi using a conventional gas-fired power plant is 11 fils/kWh. Using diesel, it would cost roughly quadruple that amount. In the Northern Emirates where the diesel generators are typically older and less efficient the cost can be as high as 70 fils/kWh. As a result, each year the Abu Dhabi government has to spend significant sums on diesel fuel costs to keep power plants running during peak demand periods. And as demand continues to rise, so will this financial burden.

Fortunately, there are some simple steps that can be taken to remedy this energy challenge.

One option is to bring utility prices closer to the cost of production and distribution. Currently, the government subsidises water and electricity costs up to 100 per cent depending

SPECIA SPE SPECIAL CIAL CIA L REPORT REPO REPO EPORT RT | APR APRIL IL 26, 2012 2012

on the end-user. Consequently, residents in the UAE pay only a fraction of what their European counterparts pay for electricity.

This naturally leads to inefficiencies and wastage. If the electricity wasn’t so cheap (or in some cases free) people would use it more carefully. As a result, demand would stabilise, thereby putting less strain on reserves. Despite the simplicity of such a policy, it is nevertheless politically sensitive and will therefore likely take several years to roll out.

Another option is to turn to renewable energy, particularly solar. This country is blessed with at least 350 sunny days.

And the sun shines exactly when we need it most; during the daytime when air conditioning units are running at full capacity. With an abundance of desert land, there is no shortage of space either.

Already the leadership of Abu Dhabi has taken the bold step of setting an ambitious renewable energy target: 7 per cent by 2020. This is equivalent to roughly 1,500MW of renewable energy. In Dubai, their target is 5 per cent by 2030, equivalent to at least 1,000MW. The next step is implementa-

tion.

Financially, switching to solar power would for the most part be a cheaper alternative to using diesel. Large-scale solar power plants are able to produce electricity at roughly 55 fils/kWh. Moreover, the cost of solar has been dropping by roughly 10 per cent year-onyear while diesel prices are expected to creep up in line with rising oil prices.

Of course, solar has its own challenges. For one, the volume of electricity generated by even large-scale solar plants is a fraction of what conventional power plants can produce. And because of the large land requirement, power plants are often far away from urban hubs which means higher transmission costs.

Despite these hurdles, solar’s future is looking bright. As solar prices continue to fall and the technology continues to improve, it is going to become an increasingly viable and sustainable source of energy. Let’s let the sun shine in.

(Vahid Fotuhi is the Chairman of the Emirates Solar Industry Association (ESIA)).

SOLAR

GeoModel Solar

Experts in solar and PV electricity assessment

The company builds upon 12 years of expertise in the solar energy domain GeoModel Solar is a leading international consultancy and technology company, operating solar and meteo databases, and software services for the solar energy industry. The company’s product portfolio supports prefeasibility studies, site selection, planning, design, financing and operation of Photovoltaic (PV), Concentrated Photovoltaic (CPV) and Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) energy projects.

GeoModel Solar helps to reduce financial risk in solar energy by high-accuracy solar data, online applications, and bankable consultancy. The company builds upon 12 years of expertise in the solar energy domain.

SolarGIS database The solar resource database, developed by GeoModel Solar, features a unique set of qualities that have triggered new standards in terms of accuracy, uncertainty, level of detail and accessibility. In the Middle East, the SolarGIS database includes more than 18 years of continuously updated information, calculated from satellite and atmospheric data by numerical models. The company expertise is strongly rooted on the most recent scientific knowledge, and an independent study by University of Geneva has recognised the SolarGIS database as the best available on the market.

The database covers regions of Europe, Africa, Asia, Brazil and West Australia. At the World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi in January 2012, GeoModel Solar launched a new set of online tools for Middle East: iMaps and pvPlanner.

These online tools make use of

the underlying SolarGIS database to provide fast and accurate assessment of solar resource and photovoltaic electricity calculation for any site in the region.

parison of sites. GeoModel Solar also delivers country studies that include a comprehensive evaluation of solar energy potential in a particular country.

conditions, climate probability statistics and variability, with focus on data uncertainty assuming typical as well as conservative scenarios in a regional context. For large projects, the locally measured solar data are correlated with a historical record of satellite-derived time series to reduce inherent uncertainties.

For Photovoltaic (PV) power plants, GeoModel Solar delivers PV Energy Yield Reports that include detailed power generation statistics and an analysis of technology options.

The results are bankable and are vital for optimising the project design for estimation of the financial risks and strategies, and contractual negotiations.

Expert consultancy

Feasibility, design optimisation, financing and due diligence – Once potential sites are identified, GeoModel Solar delivers a detailed Solar Assessment Report. In arid climates, like that of the Middle East, site assessment of solar resource involves a diligent analysis of geographic and atmospheric

Performance assessment – GeoModel Solar provides daily solar and PV power data supply for monitoring solar power plants in operation. The company also conducts regular performance audits of photovoltaic power plants based on the company’s in-house expertise, data and software.

Country assessment, site prospecting and prefeasibility – For the first stage of a solar energy project, GeoModel Solar offers high-quality data, maps and online tools for solar prospecting, ranking of priority areas and preliminary com-

SPECIAL REPORT | APRIL 26, 2012

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SOLAR

Mitigating risk and maximising profits It is vital for project developers and financers to consider only high-quality solar resource information The Middle East is blessed with an abundance of solar resource.

The viability of solar energy projects in the region has been established and some large solar energy projects are already in development. Now, the focus is on maximising revenues from projects that will be developed in the coming years.

The energy yield of a solar 06

power plant, which determines its financial profitability, is directly proportional to solar radiation. The inconvenient truth is that the predicted energy yield sometimes differs from the actual performance of the solar power plant. Inaccurate solar resource assessment has been identified as the main reason for such discrepancies.

Today, several solar databases are available on the market.

However, not all sources of data can be relied upon. Most databases are not detailed enough and they do not take into account the dynamically changing nature of clouds and

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atmospheric particles, such as dust, sea salt or water vapour, which can cut the amount of sunlight reaching the earth’s surface by vital percentage points. The level of airborne particles varies significantly by region, country and even locality. In the Middle East, the deviation in Global Horizontal Irradiation values can be as high as 15 per cent. Much higher deviation is seen in values of Direct Normal Irradiation, used for calculation of electricity output for Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) plants, ie, assets of value of tens to hundreds of millions dollars.

Remarkable differences in quality have been observed between solar data from various sources, and an inexperienced customer may not be able to find an answer to the principal question of what is the solar electricity yield.

Hence, to mitigate the financial risk of a project, it is vital for project developers and financers to consider only highquality solar resource information based on modern satellite technologies, atmospheric models and ground measurements, and supported by specialised professional and dedicated teams.

SOLAR

CONERGY

Solar system from a single source The Arabian Gulf region has a huge potential when it comes to solar PV – a technology that is most suitable for this climate Staff Reporter Hamburg-based Conergy AG is a leading solar company with over 1,400 employees across the world. As a system supplier, the company produces all the components for a solar installation under one roof and offers integrated engineering, procurement, construction and financing services for the development of solar power plants.

With the modules, inverters and mounting systems developed and produced at its three German manufacturing loca-

Alexander Lenz

Conergy puts a strong emphasis on local involvement and knowledge transfer — we believe this is the only way to build projects in a sustainable and cost effective manner while at the same time contribute to the local industry development in this new sector 08

tions, the company creates the Conergy System Technology — and through that an efficient solar system for private or commercial solar rooftop systems, as well as for Megawatt-Parks.

The Conergy System Services deliver the “Total Sleep-easy Package” for the Conergy System Technology. From planning and financing to the engineering and installation, all the way to the monitoring, maintenance, operational and commercial management and insurance, Conergy offers a service package to cover all possible services for a solar plant.

The Conergy System Sales takes the company’s premium products and services directly to the customer in nearly 40 different countries. With 24 subsidies in 14 countries on five continents, the solar group operates closer to the customer than any other solar company.

In an exclusive interview with Khaleej Times, Alexander Lenz, Conergy President — South East Asia and Middle East, talks about the company’s presence and role in the Gulf region.

As a leading supplier of solar systems worldwide, how do you see the drive towards a sustainable future unfolding in the Arabian Gulf region?

The Arabian Gulf region has a huge potential when it comes to solar PV (photovoltaic power generation) — a technology that is most suitable for this climate.

We strongly believe that sustainability and renewable energy will become important pillars for the region’s growth in the future considering the high domestic consumption of fossil fuels used to support the region’s surging demand for energy.

The Arab nations are currently taking a very detailed

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and cautious look at the benefits of each technology. Initial initiatives such as the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) and King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) solar rooftop systems in Saudi Arabia and a solar park in Masdar City in the UAE show that sustainability is no longer just a novelty but rather a necessity for them. Once these pilot developments prove themselves viable we expect that the drive towards a sustainable future will unfold in a rather short time frame.

What role has Conergy played in the region so far? Can you tell us about the projects you have been involved in; the technology involved; and the resultant savings in terms of carbon emissions?

Conergy has been active in the region as a full service supplier for solar PV systems for some time already. We are covering the region out of our Abu Dhabi office and we have built some landmark reference systems already — mainly in Saudi Arabia where we have designed and supplied the region’s largest rooftop system (KAUST, 2 MWp) and Riyadh’s first PV Rooftop System (0.2 MWp).

Meanwhile in the UAE, we were involved in the setup of 56 guard room units which are fully running on renewable energy. Our projects are generally equipped with our own Coner-

gy System Technology (Conergy Crystalline PV modules, Conergy Inverters and Conergy Mounting Structure). The environmental impact of these systems is considerable. The 2 MWp system in KAUST, for example, helps to save 3,320 tonnes of CO2 per year.

Conergy is also very actively involved in creating awareness and educating the public on the benefits of solar energy. In Saudi Arabia for example, we are collaborating with KAUST on training sessions for industry professionals and students which will cover the fundamentals of solar PV and will include the actual setup of a fully functional PV system.

What would you say are Conergy’s main areas of expertise and how are they particularly relevant to the Gulf?

Conergy has always been a pioneer in the Solar PV sector.

We have managed projects in challenging climatic conditions such as Saudi Arabia and Northern India and have been one of the first companies to complete a commercially viable power plant in Thailand. This gives us the necessary technical and management experience for projects in markets that are not yet familiar with this new technology. Furthermore, our products are among the best in the industry as they were designed to operate in challenging climates as what we have in this

SOLAR region. Last but not least we are a system supplier — which means that we participate in the manufacturing of key components and provide engineering, construction and financing services so that our clients can get a complete system from a single source that adheres to our highest quality standards.

Who are your major partners in the Gulf? Please tell us about your operations in the UAE. Conergy puts a strong emphasis on local involvement and knowledge transfer — we believe this is the only way to build projects in a sustainable and cost effective manner while at the same time contribute to the local industry development in this new sector. Our partners in the region vary accordingly, but in Saudi Arabia we are currently building a project in Riyadh with MTTS — a partnership we value very much.

Powering a Cleaner Planet, Empowering Sustained Profitability Local Expertise Backed by a Global Leader Conergy provides full turn-key solar energy solutions and unparalleled client focus to meet your solar energy objectives and maximize your return on investment.

As a system supplier, Conergy provides the components and EPC services required for a solar installation.

Where We Are, There Is Energy Conergy is driving innovation and market creation to nearly 44 countries around the world. Over the past decade, we have produced and sold over 1.6 GW of solar energy systems. It’s no wonder we say: Our world is full of energy.

Discover Solar Energy

Conergy Renewable Energy Singapore Pte Ltd - Middle East Telephone + 971 5677 50833 Email info-apac@conergy.com Website www.conergy.com

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SOLAR

VALUE ADDITION

Eco-friendly energy solutions Since completing successfully a project of 5 km of solar powered LED street lighting with battery and grid back up for Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, Value Addition has become one of the leading quality suppliers for DEWA Latha Krishnan Established in 1997 in the UAE, Value Addition is a leading engineering company that specialises in the conceptualisation, design, supply, installation, commissioning and maintenance of Solar Photovoltaic (PV) and thermal systems, oil/gas fired boiler, vapour absorption chillers and high power LED lighting.

“We are one of the leading sustainable energy solutions providers to the industries of the region and have more than 1,000 customers in the UAE and around the Middle East, Northern Africa and India.

Through our work we not only promote green energy but also make the existing fossil fuel based energy use more efficient for our customers, thus preserving environment by conserving energy,” informs Ragunath, Director of Value Addition.

The Value Addition team of engineers understand the importance of renewable energy 10

due to their vast knowledge base and understanding of heating, cooling, environmental pollution and its impact on climate. At the same time they also understand that fossil fuels cannot be done away with totally due to economical concerns. Therefore they conduct energy audits to help customers save energy and use it optimally without wasting. These turn out to be cost efficient and ideal solutions for customers.

“As a solution provider, we also provide retrofits, automation, etc. to improve the efficiency of existing equipment like steam and hot water boilers, oil heaters, etc. In the renewable energy sector, we have, in the past seven years,

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installed several large, medium and small scale Solar hot water systems, Solar PV systems, LED lighting and vapour absorption chillers, which in turn have given better mileage on reduction of carbon dioxide emissions to our customers,” explains Rajsekhar, Executive Director.

Value Addition has tied up with reputed manufacturers for the various solutions it provides to its customers. These include Viessmann of Germany for solar thermal systems and condensing boilers, Suntech of China for solar PV, Thermax of India for vapour absorption chillers, boilers, etc, SMA of Germany and Bluesky Energy of the US for inverters, Riello of Italy for energy efficient burners, RTG of

Germany for specialised control systems and Gemma Lighting of UK for high power LED lighting solutions.

Since completing successfully a project of 5 km of solar powered LED street lighting with battery and grid back up for Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, Value Addition has become one of the leading quality suppliers for DEWA. Several more such projects are in different stages of execution all over the country and abroad.

“Our slogan is ‘Adding Value to your business’ and we are fully committed to do that.

Also we hope to be the most respected organisation in the field of renewable energy,” the director of Value Addition declared enthusiastically.

SOLAR

Solar industry needs support The potential is there, but unless there is a structure and an incentive scheme in place, that potential will not materialise Vahid Fotuhi “Why don’t we see more solar power in the UAE?” This is the first question people ask me when I tell them I work in the solar industry.

As Abu Dhabi has just hosted the 2012 World Future Energy Summit this question is more relevant than ever. After all, as I am continuously reminded, there is no shortage of either sun or land in the UAE. So how come we don’t see more solar panels plastered in the desert beyond Abu Dhabi and Dubai? The answer is complicated. In fact, when I try explaining it to people I often sense their minds drifting away.

Recently, I had an experience with my son, Cyrus, which provided me with an excellent anecdote to illustrate the reasons behind the scarcity of solar power in the UAE. Cyrus is now five years old.

Always hungry for a new adventure, I felt he was ready to take on the challenge of riding a bicycle without stabilisers.

At first, he was hesitant. He felt he absolutely needed the support provided by the training wheels. But with the introduction of an incentive scheme 12

(chocolate), I was able to convince him to remove the extra wheels and instead settle for me holding the back of his seat as he cycled. Reluctantly, he agreed to give it a shot.

As we zigzagged through the park, I gradually released my grip and gave him the space to ride by himself. Initially it was just for a split second. But with each turn around the park, I shrunk my support further. By the fourth turn, my hands were completely off the bike as I trotted quietly behind him with a huge smile on my face. Cyrus had effectively reached ‘gravity parity’ – the point where he could ride the bike without any extra support.

Our solar industry today is very much in the same place as a young boy or girl who is on the verge of learning how to ride a bike independently.

The potential is there, but unless there is a structure and an incentive scheme in place that potential will not materialise.

Just like Cyrus needed a little help to get going, so does our solar industry.

Exactly what support does our solar industry need to take off?

First, we need to have a regulatory framework that gov-

SPECIAL REPORT | APRIL 26, 2012

erns the production and distribution of solar power.

Currently, it is legally not possible for most residents and business owners in the UAE to generate solar power and feed it into the electricity grid. Fortunately in Dubai, laws are currently being drafted that would provide a structure, like the hand holding the back of the bike, to guide the solar industry forward. This is a very encouraging step forward.

Second, the solar industry needs short-term ‘green subsidies’ which are tantamount to chocolate to a child. Whilst there are subsidies that apply to conventional power generation, these subsidies do not extend to solar. So solar is at a disadvantage. In order to make solar commercially attractive, there needs to be a green subsidy that bridges the gap between the cost of generating solar power and the regulated cost of conventional electricity. By closing this gap solar would become an instant success. Again, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are actively studying this policy tool to see how best it could be implemented.

The good news is that, in the meantime, the cost of solar power is dropping faster than anyone expected. Photovoltaic

solar panel prices have dropped 40 per cent over the past year alone. Prices are expected to decline further in the years ahead as supply gallops ahead of demand. This means that as solar becomes less expensive there will be less of a need for ‘green subsidies’. And over time solar will reach ‘grid parity’ – the point where solar power can be produced without any extra support.

It’s very much like holding the back of the bicycle seat. At first a lot of holding is needed, but over time the holding shrinks as the necessary skills and expertise start taking shape.

After several rounds of running in a crouched position behind my son, ready to catch him in case he fell, he whispered the words, “Daddy, let go.” He was ready. Nervously, I slowed by pace and let him go. As I looked ahead, I could see his cute red helmet fade into the distance. “I’m free!” he giggled proudly, as the morning sun beamed off his shoulder.

(Vahid Fotuhi is the Chairman of the Emirates Solar Industry Association (ESIA)).

SOLAR

MICROSOL INTERNATIONAL

Aiming for cost control Microsol is looking forward to increasing its capacity per annum by the middle of this year as it continues to boast high cell efficiencies at low costs Latha Krishnan Operating from its premises in the Fujairah Free Zone since 2003, Microsol International LL FZE (Microsol) is one of the leaders in producing and supplying mono and multi crystalline solar cells and solar PV modules.

The company’s modern cell manufacturing plant with 150 MW per annum is set to increase capacity to 250 MW per annum by mid-2012. Furthermore, robust expansion plans are afoot at Microsol with the recent acquisition of the premium German brand Solon being one of them.

“The manufacturing synergies of Microsol and Solon increases the range of our products while enhancing our geographical foot print to cover Europe, North America, the Middle East, and South Asia and making us a competitive and high quality player,” explains Suri Penubolu, Director of Microsol International.

Microsol intends to retain Solon’s high quality manufacturing of a variety of specialty modules, new system design and engineering, and research and development in Berlin. The company will also benefit from the project engineering experi-

ence of Solon for the newly emerging markets in the Middle East, India and South Africa. In addition, the Solon brand module production will be added to the manufacturing footprint in Fujairah.

The solar cells of Microsol boasts cell efficiencies at 18 per cent comparable with the best manufacturers at volume scale in the world. At the same time the company has managed to keep costs low.

“We are very focused on cost control, which has led to us successfully compete under the tough market environment of intense Chinese competition and falling product prices without losing our intrinsic profitability. We are also intent on furthering cell efficiency and yield improvements. Solon’s strengths in lowering cell to module conversion losses and high quality will only add to our competitiveness,” says Penubolu.

Solar products prices have reduced in the past two years and large-scale solar energy power plants have become affordable enough to compete with fossil fuel or nuclear energy based ones.

According to Penubolu, governments in the Middle East should realise the merit of solar energy and exploit it as this region is blessed with large land areas and year-round sunshine.

He stresses, “We require federal policies to take stock of current power consumption and costs, recognise the viability of solar energy and encourage research and development in it.”

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SOLAR

Solar power basics Solar energy could be utilised as heat or to produce electricity

Hisham El Shaarani What is solar?

The word solar is related to the sun. We have plenty of it in this region and so we need to learn more about it — and start using it. The sun is believed to be the main (and possibly only) source of energy on earth. Solar energy could be utilised as heat or to produce electricity. Those used to heat are called solar thermal systems and the ones producing electricity are called photovoltaic (PV) systems.

Solar thermal systems Solar thermal systems generally circulate water, pump it up to the roof and the thermal collector absorbs the sun’s radiation heating the water. Hot water then flows through a heat exchanger tank to heat potable water, space inside a house, or even form steam to rotate turbines and generate electricity.

Photovoltaic systems Solar photovoltaic systems work on a different principle.

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The solar cells are hit by the incoming radiation and due to the nature of their silicon material, a potential difference is created across the individual cells. The individual cells are wired in a particular arrangement to harness a usable direct current voltage. This could power a light bulb, a laptop or any electrical appliance.

Systems can vary in type, size and complexity ranging from a simple solar panel used to operate a light bulb to a large solar farm injecting power into the local utility grid and eventually powering factories, houses, shopping malls, office buildings, etc.

Photovoltaic systems can be either standalone or grid connected. Standalone systems will have a battery bank to store power during the night or during times when the sun is not strong enough. Grid connected systems do not need batteries for storage, but connect the generated power to the local utility grid (such as DEWA) after converting it into a form accepted by the utility grid.

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Photovoltaic systems can be either standalone or grid connected.

Standalone systems will have a battery bank to store power during the night or during times when the sun is not strong enough How much is a solar system?

We need to know if we could power our house with solar.

The fact is, solar energy is expensive. More expensive than our monthly electricity bills accumulating over the years.

It costs about Dh15,000 to heat water in a two-bedroom house or to power five light bulbs. A system to power a full five-bedroom house could cost over Dh500,000. Systems will keep getting cheaper as technology and production techniques advance further.

Solar thermal systems used to heat water are quite eco-

nomical as they save us the high electricity cost of an electric heater. Solar photovoltaic systems could make economic sense when local electricity grid is nonexistent such as in remote areas in the desert, or to light a street that has already been constructed and would cost a lot to build the underground cabling infrastructure to power. Many governments around the world have subsidy programmes that support green energy initiatives and hence make solar systems cheaper to the user.

The UAE government has recently committed to similar initiatives which could be seen in the coming years.

If you have any questions about solar systems, send an email to contact@rentech.ae (Hisham El Shaarani, Partner and Division Manager of Rentech Systems, Dubai, has an Electrical Engineering degree from the American University of Sharjah and a Master of Engineering in Solar Energy from Queen’s University Sharjah. He is a NABCEP Certified PV Installer)

SOLAR

Education in renewable energy Courses related to sustainable power sources can set students en route for a better future

Taking a note of energy issues and powering sustainable ideas for a better future, a newly opened solar academy in Dubai is making efforts to train professionals in renewable energy technologies.

A five-day training course was held recently at the British University in Dubai (BUiD) to mark the launch of PTL Solar Academy as each training session is focused on 20 participants.

“The Academy aims to provide knowledge of alternative and clean-energy solutions to efficiently meet the future requirements and develop a reduced carbon footprint economy and empower individuals,” said Prabissh Thomas, Managing Director of PTL Solar.

The Solar Academy is being developed as part of the green initiatives by PTL Solar in partnership with Solar Energy International (SEI) and the British University in Dubai (BUiD).

Dr Abdulla Al Shamsi, Vice Chancellor of British University in Dubai (BUiD) said, “It’s a great honour for the university to be a resident of training in renewable energy. We feel the country is on the verge of setting up a sustainable economy and having a course designed to train professionals in the energy sector will help boost the carbon economy. Going solar is the way forward.”

More courses will be made available in the coming months as students can ben-

efit from the expertise of international training providers.

“There are probably fewer more important challenges than those relating to mankind’s energy needs. Our joint wish is to stimulate awareness, professional enquiry and collaboration between business, government and academia with an invitation to all friends, peers and other associates to help make this happen for the good of Dubai, the nation and beyond,” commented Martin Prince, Registrar of British University in Dubai.

Renewable energy, particularly solar and wind, are expected to contribute to almost 15.7 per cent of the world’s energy by 2030 and global spending is projected to hit $7 trillion during this period. Of this, GCC countries combined are looking at an increase of 10 to 18 per cent annually between 2012 and 2020 on installed renewable capacity, according to World Energy Council reports.

The GCC countries are experiencing soaring power demands with the electrical power capacity estimated to triple over the next 25 years. Renewable energy production is featuring in meeting this demand.

To achieve these renewable energy strategies in the UAE and throughout the MENA region, it is critical to develop a workforce with the skills necessary to ensure quality installations, cost reductions and consumer confidence.

SPECIAL REPORT | APRIL 26, 2012

15

SOLAR

ECO SMART INTERNATIONAL

Dedication to green concepts Eco Smart International is in tune with providing services with an efficient and eco-friendly approach Eco Smart International is a certified ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems Company. Over the past six years, it has devoted itself to create a sustainable business that makes green concepts easy and affordable to thousands of customers across the world. Eco Smart is a solar power systems integrator as well as wholesale dealer of premium brands of solar power systems components.

Eco Smart offers to analyse the facility’s energy performance and present the client with the most effective options accordingly. Complete services are provided to manage and drive energy management from programme inception all through execution and maintenance. Clients can partner with the organisation on a single stage anywhere along the line.

Eco Smart is certified ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems Company. Its care and support continue well beyond the installation of the systems Customer benefits with Eco Smart - Eco Smart provides ecologically economic solutions from a wide range of products globally with local engineering support.

- Eco Smart provides the highest level of workmanship so that installation is efficient, reliable and aesthetically pleasing.

- Eco Smart has strategic partnerships with world-class manufacturers and industry experts for large project applications and optimum solutions.

- Eco Smart is certified ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems Company. Its care and support continue well beyond the installation of the systems.

16

SPECIAL REPORT | APRIL 26, 2012

SOLAR

Swiss offers solar technology for Dubai abras Protection of the environment is assured with no diesel discharge or engine sound

A Swiss boat-maker will offer Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) solar power technology for the existing abras without changing their traditional looks.

Guy Wolfensberger, Managing Director of Swiss-based Grove Boats said, “We have a plan for the RTA to provide solar power technology for the abras. We can provide the technology to replace the diesel engines with solar power.

With the technology, the traditional image and looks of these boats will not be affected. The solar-powered boats will also help protect the Creek’s environment as there will be no diesel discharge and no engine sound,” he told Khaleej Times at the fifth World Future Energy Summit (WFES 2012).

Wolfensberger further added that converting the boats’ engines will be easy, simple and cost-effective.

His talks with RTA officials also included sales of solarpowered passenger ferries that can operate at the Nakheel and other waterways in the emirate.

He said similar talks are being held with Abu Dhabi’s Department of Transport officials to sell passenger boats for transportation around Yas and Saadiyat islands. He said officials visited their 24-seater 18

Guy Wolfensberger explains Grove Boats during WFES 2012 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. — KT photo by Nezar Balout

Aquabus 1050, which was in the UAE for the WFES exhibition.

“To secure a market share in the UAE, we are already setting up an office in Dubai, which will be the company’s regional hub. We already have 40 boats of different sizes with different features in Europe.

Now our goal is enter the Middle East market with the prime focus on the UAE and other GCC states,” Wolfensberger explained.

In addition to marketing the solar-powered vessels, the company also plans to set up a manufacturing plant in the UAE. Wolfensberger said they are already looking for inves-

SPECIAL REPORT | APRIL 26, 2012

tors and partners in the UAE to set up the plant.

Grove Boats, though based in Switzerland, has its boat making facility in Croatia. The company builds different types of solar-powered boats of different sizes that includes luxury boats, ferries and have manufactured a small sea cleaning boat recently.

The company, targeting the tourism industry including resorts and the public transport sector, is now designing new prototype and futuristic boats.

It makes boats with a capacity to carry ten to 100 people. The prizes for these boats vary from $100,000 to about $1 million.

We have a plan for the RTA to provide solar power technology for the abras. We can provide the technology to replace the diesel engines with solar power GuyWolfensberger

SOLAR

Aqaba Solar Cooling Pilot

Marriott Dead Sea

PNUW Collectors

MUSANADA School, Al Ain

Broadening scopes for eco-consciousness Latha Krishnan

With big names in its portfolio, MEI offers effective solar heating and cooling solutions, and is looking to expand in the near future

Millennium Energy Industries (MEI) is a leading industrial/ commercial scale solar energy solutions company operating internationally for large-scale projects, and in the Middle East for small, medium and large-scale projects.

Since 2002, MEI has been providing solar heating and cooling solutions for industrial, commercial, and residential clients on an Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) basis. Clients include Marriott Resorts, Movenpick Resorts; Jordache Jeans, and

Siniora Factories; Safeway, Schlumberger, Masdar City in Abu Dhabi, and various other universities, hospitals, resorts, hotels, residential communities, oil and gas, and industrial facilities.

MEI successfully engineered and implemented the world's largest solar heating system, a 25MW thermal solar district heating plant in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. “We are very proud of that big project in Riyadh. We just finished the Nestle Water factory and are now doing an Aramco project also in Riyadh.

In the UAE, currently we are in

the bidding process for several projects and have just completed solar heating for four schools in Al Ain under the Abu Dhabi Future Schools programme. We recently installed our second solar cooling system in Jordan,� informs AbdelGhani Barakat, Regional Technical Manager of MEI. MEI is expanding its operations in Europe and South America especially in Chile and Mexico. In Chile, the company is now tendering to install a huge solar heating system, which will be larger than the one it has installed in Saudi Arabia.

MILLENNIUM ENERGY INDUSTRIES Solar energy is practical, feasible and attainable, especially with Millennium Energy Industries, a leader in deploying industrial and commercial scale solar energy solutions in the Middle East and internationally. !

Hot Water !

Pool Heating !

Space Heating !

Solar Cooling !

Industrial Process Heat !

Industrial Steam !

Power and Water MEI is distinguished by its engineering know-how, track record, and its ability to integrate and custom-fit solar solutions to meet clients' needs in the most practical and reliable manner. Our service is based on a professional engineering approach to serve customers from conceptual and detailed design, all the way to installation and maintenance and operations.

MEI successfully engineered, implemented and commissioned the world's largest solar heating system, a 25 MW thermal solar district heating plant at the Princess Noura University for Women (PNUW) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

AQABA SOLAR COOLING PILOT

PNUW COLLECTORS

MARRIOTT DEAD SEA

For further information contact: Millennium Energy Industries (MEI) Tel: +971 2 666 6332

Fax

P.O.Box 61844 Abu Dhabi

email : info@millenniumenergy.co.uk

: +971 2 666 2292 PNUW PLANT

MUSANADA SCHOOLS AL-AIN

ARAMCO-KAPSARC

SPECIAL REPORT | APRIL 26, 2012

SOLAR

Solar power station in Spain works at night Sunless days are no longer an issue for solar energy-powered areas

A unique thermosolar power station in southern Spain can shrug off cloudy days as the energy stored when the sun shines helps produce electricity even during the night.

The Gemasolar station, up and running since May 2011, stands out in the plains of Andalusia. From the road between Seville and Cordoba, one can see its central tower lit up like a beacon by 2,600 solar mirrors, each 120 square metres (28,500 square feet), that surround it in an immense 195-hectare (480acre) circle.

“It is the first station in the world that works 24 hours a day, a solar power station that works day and night,” said Santago Arias, Technical Director of Torresol Energy, which runs the station.

According to him, the mechanism is “very easy to explain.”

The panels reflect the suns rays on to the tower, transmitting energy at an intensity 1,000 times higher than that of the sun’s rays reaching the earth.

Energy is stored in a vat filled 20

with molten salts at a temperature of over 500 degree Celsius (930 F). These salts are used to produce steam to turn the turbines and produce electricity.

It is the station’s capacity to store energy that makes Gemasolar so different because it allows the plant to transmit power during the night, relying on energy it has accumulated during the day.

“I use that energy as I see fit, and not as the sun dictates,” Arias explained.

As a result, the plant produces 60 per cent more energy than a station without storage capacity because it can work 6,400 hours a year compared to 1,200 to 2,000 hours for other solar power stations, he said.

“The amount of energy we produce a year is equal to the consumption of 30,000 Spanish households,” he said, an annual saving of 30,000 tonnes of CO2.

Helped by generous state aid, renewable energies have enjoyed a boom in Spain, the

SPECIAL REPORT | APRIL 26, 2012

Gemasolar is the first station in the world that works 24 hours a day, a solar power station that works day and night SantagoArias

world's number two in solar energy and the biggest wind power producer in Europe, ahead of Germany.

For the Gemasolar solar product, foreign investors helped too.

Torresol Energy is a joint venture between the Spanish engineering group Sener, which holds 60 per cent, and Abu Dhabi-financed renewable energy firm, Masdar.

“This type of station is ex-

pensive, not because of the raw material we use, which is free solar energy, but because of the enormous investment these plants require,” Arias said.

The investment cost exceeds 200 million Euros ($260 million). But the day when the business repays all that money to the banks (in 18 years, he estimates), this station will become a 1,000-Euro note printing machine, he added, recalling that oil prices have soared from $28 a barrel in 2003 to nearly $130.

For now, the economic crisis has nevertheless cast a shadow over this kind of project. Spain is battling to slash its deficit as it slides into recession and has suspended aid to new renewable energy projects.

“We have three projects ready but stalled because of the aid suspension,” Arias said, admitting that in a difficult global economy the group has not managed to sell the Gemasolar techology abroad despite huge interest outside Spain.

SOLAR

Empowering women in rural areas through education

Barefoot College teaches women the basics of solar energy as part of their curriculum

Located in Tilonia village, 100 kilometres (60 miles) from the capital of the western desert state of Rajasthan, Barefoot College is a collection of environmentally friendly domeshape buildings.

Inside these buildings, about a dozen teachers take classes of pupils — mostly illiterate grandmothers from remote villages — teaching them the basics of solar engineering, dentistry, mechanics, public health and even radio jockeying.

Everyone sat on the floor or leaned on old desks, and almost everyone is poor. Many are unable to read or write, and some of them hail from as far away as Tanzania in Africa.

Barefoot was started by social entrepreneur Sanjit “Bunker” Roy in 1972 and has been breaking taboos ever since, educating women who are often considered second-class citizens and discouraged from getting an education.

Magan Kanwar, who teaches solar engineering, remembers being told by her father-in-law she should focus on knitting sweaters rather than dreaming of attending the school.

“But I just wanted to do something more than cooking and producing babies. This college gave me a chance to find the purpose of my life,” she told AFP. Lots of the women at the school have heavy-drinking and abusive husbands, she says, the school gives them some independence with which they can secure an income and future for their children.

“If there’s no food for their kids at least the women can work and look after them, ed-

A woman working on some soldering during a workshop to learn how to integrate circuit boards for solar lights at the Barefoot College in Tilonia town, in the Indian state of Rajasthan. — AFP ucate them, run the household,” she explained.

One of her pupils, 47-yearold Masamba Hameez Makami from Tanzania, will return home to install solar lanterns in her remote village that has no electricity, giving her neighbours lights at night for the first time.

Her stay at Barefoot is funded by the Indian government, which provided 28 scholarships last year for women from Africa to do the six-month solar engineering training programme.

The ministry finances several projects at the college under a long-term project to help women in African countries as well as regional allies of Afghanistan, Nepal and Bhutan.

“Very soon I will be able to electrify [provide electricity] my whole village,” says the mother of seven from Zanzibar.

To overcome the language barrier, Kanwar who speaks

broken Hindi uses sign language and colour-coded circuits to explain the solar process to Makami who speaks Swahili, an east African language.

“We women have our own code words,” Kanwar says wryly as she solders electric wires to a circuit board.

Barefoot’s founder Roy, named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in 2010, believes that the key to improving living conditions in poor areas is empowering rural women — the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day. Training older women rather than focusing on men is the key, he said.

“Men are very restless and compulsively mobile. The moment you give them a certificate they leave their villages,” Bhagwat Nandan, a senior coordinator at the college, told AFP. “We deliberately confer no

degrees,” he explained. “People are obsessed with the idea of getting degrees, certificates and recognition but we recognise the hands-on, learningby-doing process.”

The model created by the 66-year-old Roy has since been copied in 17 states across India and has been emulated in 15 countries in Africa and several others in Asia and South America.

Courses typically last between six to nine months and are free for students thanks to funding from a range of donors including the Indian government, international agencies, as well as private and corporate foundations.

An estimated 10,000 female students have passed through its doors, while alumni are running over 800 night schools across India providing a multiplier effect as knowledge is passed on by word of mouth.

The college is a model of grass-roots cooperation and frugality.

No one working there earns more than $150 a month but everyone receives a living wage, not a market wage. Living conditions are simple with many classes taken on the floor.

The institution, powered entirely by solar energy, also makes sure nothing is wasted.

Bhanwar Gopal, an artist, prepares colourful masks for plays and puppet shows by recycling World Bank reports.

“We keep getting these reports that no one reads, so we decided to put them to some use,” Gopal said. “We use the World Bank paper to fight poverty and social problems in our own style.”

— AFP

SPECIAL REPORT | APRIL 26, 2012

21

BUILDING THE NATION WITH NEW TECHNOLOGY Global Energy has been able to introduce energy efficient central water heating/cooling systems, dehumidification systems, solar lighting and heating systems SOLAR WATER HEATING PROJECTS

Global Energy has a reputation of being one of the leading service-oriented business establishments in the UAE for renewable energy solutions. The name of the group and its services has been synonymous with the attributes of quality and reliability.

Global Energy, recognising the needs, challenges and the growing demand of building automation and energy conservation, has been contributing to nation building through the introduction of various new technologies to the UAE. Through joint ventures with its principles, Global Energy has been able to introduce energy efficient central water heating/cooling systems, dehumidification systems, solar lighting and heating systems, etc.

Since its inception, Global Energy has shown a steady growth and diversified its activities of specialised energy conservation products to the construction industry. A new technology that Global Energy is involved with is the exciting energy efficient solar hybrid water heating systems combined with the heat recovery from the chilled water or domestic cold water system.

These energy efficient solar hybrid water-heating/cooling systems combined with the use of solar thermal panels provide the most cost effective technology in terms of operational and initial capital cost savings achieved.

Global Energy’s diversification is demonstrated by the various types of projects it has executed over the years. The following are some of the areas covered by the company.

ENERGY RECOVERY WATER HEATING AND COOLING PROJECTS These systems utilise the solar energy combined with the heat recovered from waste heat. These are capable of producing hot water at 70 degree Celsius and cool water at 12 degree Celsius.

The costly operation of electrical or gas backup systems that are common in most standard solar heating systems are not required in this range of systems, making it the most perfect system for a total energy efficient and environment friendly system that is available in the market today.

To give an idea of the efficiency of the system, a complex that would require a daily hot water load of 90,000 litres that would be heated with solar thermal systems would require a space of 420 square metres combined with a backup power load of approximately 180kW. With this hybrid hot water system the space requirement would be reduced to approximately 340 square metres with a heat recovery system requiring a power load of only 50 kW while providing a cooling capacity of 70 refrigeration tonnes to supplement the chilled water system specially during hot summer months. This savings in power of over 72 per cent combined with the space savings of 20 per cent makes the system the best solution for UAE’s large commercial applications.

Solar heater systems offered are of high quality copper absorber plates in the collector panel to ensure maximum efficiency and durability in comparison to the pressed steel tubes commonly used in many solar systems. The solar system that Global Energy offers is by far the most technically advanced solar hot water system in the world today. This system is 40 per cent more efficient and effective when compared with conventional type solar hot water system that is available worldwide. These systems are ideal for villas and small commercial applications or in locations that have sufficient roof space for the installation.

SOLAR LIGHTING PROJECTS Global Energy also carry out various projects in the solar lighting field.

They are responsible for complete turnkey solutions from design, supply and commissioning of these systems. A common solution offered by Global Energy for the solar lighting industry are the solar garden and street lighting solutions for villas and commercial applications.

Global Energy resources and close association with its principle partners enables them to carry out turnkey projects and has been credited with successfully executing a number of energy recovery projects on a design and build basis to the entire satisfaction of the clients. Its sound financial background is demonstrated in terms of the projects executed over the past years of dedicated service.

PO Box 113560, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Tel: +971 4 4472718. Fax +971 4 4472720.

Email: solairdubai@eim.ae. Web : www.globalenergygrp.com

BUILDING THE NATION WITH NEW TECHNOLOGY Global Energy has been able to introduce energy efficient central water heating/cooling systems, dehumidification systems, solar lighting and heating systems SOLAR WATER HEATING PROJECTS

Global Energy has a reputation of being one of the leading service-oriented business establishments in the UAE for renewable energy solutions. The name of the group and its services has been synonymous with the attributes of quality and reliability.

Global Energy, recognising the needs, challenges and the growing demand of building automation and energy conservation, has been contributing to nation building through the introduction of various new technologies to the UAE. Through joint ventures with its principles, Global Energy has been able to introduce energy efficient central water heating/cooling systems, dehumidification systems, solar lighting and heating systems, etc.

Since its inception, Global Energy has shown a steady growth and diversified its activities of specialised energy conservation products to the construction industry. A new technology that Global Energy is involved with is the exciting energy efficient solar hybrid water heating systems combined with the heat recovery from the chilled water or domestic cold water system.

These energy efficient solar hybrid water-heating/cooling systems combined with the use of solar thermal panels provide the most cost effective technology in terms of operational and initial capital cost savings achieved.

Global Energy’s diversification is demonstrated by the various types of projects it has executed over the years. The following are some of the areas covered by the company.

ENERGY RECOVERY WATER HEATING AND COOLING PROJECTS These systems utilise the solar energy combined with the heat recovered from waste heat. These are capable of producing hot water at 70 degree Celsius and cool water at 12 degree Celsius.

The costly operation of electrical or gas backup systems that are common in most standard solar heating systems are not required in this range of systems, making it the most perfect system for a total energy efficient and environment friendly system that is available in the market today.

To give an idea of the efficiency of the system, a complex that would require a daily hot water load of 90,000 litres that would be heated with solar thermal systems would require a space of 420 square metres combined with a backup power load of approximately 180kW. With this hybrid hot water system the space requirement would be reduced to approximately 340 square metres with a heat recovery system requiring a power load of only 50 kW while providing a cooling capacity of 70 refrigeration tonnes to supplement the chilled water system specially during hot summer months. This savings in power of over 72 per cent combined with the space savings of 20 per cent makes the system the best solution for UAE’s large commercial applications.

Solar heater systems offered are of high quality copper absorber plates in the collector panel to ensure maximum efficiency and durability in comparison to the pressed steel tubes commonly used in many solar systems. The solar system that Global Energy offers is by far the most technically advanced solar hot water system in the world today. This system is 40 per cent more efficient and effective when compared with conventional type solar hot water system that is available worldwide. These systems are ideal for villas and small commercial applications or in locations that have sufficient roof space for the installation.

SOLAR LIGHTING PROJECTS Global Energy also carry out various projects in the solar lighting field.

They are responsible for complete turnkey solutions from design, supply and commissioning of these systems. A common solution offered by Global Energy for the solar lighting industry are the solar garden and street lighting solutions for villas and commercial applications.

Global Energy resources and close association with its principle partners enables them to carry out turnkey projects and has been credited with successfully executing a number of energy recovery projects on a design and build basis to the entire satisfaction of the clients. Its sound financial background is demonstrated in terms of the projects executed over the past years of dedicated service.

PO Box 113560, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Tel: +971 4 4472718. Fax +971 4 4472720.

Email: solairdubai@eim.ae. Web : www.globalenergygrp.com