Saurenergy International Magazine January Issue 2021

SAUR ENERGY www.saurenergy.com

January 2021 | `200

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

DCP LICENSING NO. F.2(S-29) PRESS/2016 | VOL. 5 | ISSUE 05 | TOTAL PAGES 64 | PUBLISHED ON 1ST OF EVERY MONTH

eg oti

ati

on

s

Land Delays

ys ela

tD

en

ym Pa

Re n

Tr an sm iss ion Iss ue s

2021- Solar’s Fraying Government Umbrella

ce

an ist

li Po

t

s Re l a ic

High Power Solis-(215-255)K-EHV-5G to a New Era of Low LCOE

www.solisinverters.com

t: +91 224 9744 021 | e: indiasales@ginlong.com

To know more, reach out to us today 0522-4261672 / 4261697 (10 AM to 6PM)

bd.dcv@sidbi.in

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL VOL 5 | ISSUE 05

GROUP EDITOR

Prasanna Singh prasanna@meilleurmedia.com

|

E |D |I |T |O |R |I |A |L

|

From the

Group Editor SAUR ENERGY

DIRECTOR

Prateek Kapoor prateek@meilleurmedia.com

EDITOR

Manas Nandi manas@meilleurmedia.com

STAFF WRITER

Ayush Verma editorial@meilleurmedia.com

MANAGER - MEDIA SOLUTION Girish Mishra girish.mishra@meilleurmedia.com

DESIGN HEAD Sandeep Kumar

WEB DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Jitender Kumar

WEB PRODUCTION Balvinder Singh

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Kuldeep Gusain subscription@meilleurmedia.com Saur Energy International is printed, published, edited and owned by Manas Nandi and 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.

DISCLAIMER: 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.

T

he first part of 2021 is already looking like a huge improvement over the year gone by, thanks to a budget that has been received positively by the broader market. Though the benefits for the solar, and broader renewable energy sector will lie in the specifics of how the issue at discoms is fixed with the new funding, or progress on the Electricity Amendment Bill, the overall turn in sentiment should augur well for the sector.

In our cover feature, we look at the key issues that will not bear avoiding, from policies, to politics to the other issues that the sector must confront, to meet the massive ambitions for the decade to 2030.

The beginning of the financial year is also a good time to consider how smaller firms in India will compete going forward. With auctions on a relentless march to ever lower prices, smaller developers have almost disappeared from the scene, perhaps unable to wring out any profits at these prices. That is not a healthy sign for the long term health of the sector. After the turgid policy wrangles that have throttled rooftop solar, we would certainly not like to see a thinning out of developers in utility solar too.

To all of you who appreciated our past issues personally, a big thank you. Feedback is certainly as good as oxygen in our business, and we hope to become better at providing you the kind of information and insight you need, at the right time. This is also a reminder to you to check out our website, where we have broken fresh records in January, in terms of traffic and stories. Thank you for your part there.

PRASANNA SINGH Group Editor

|

I |N |S |I |D |E

|

CONTENTS VOL. 05, ISSUE-05

J A N UA RY 2021

S AU R E N E R GY . C O M

28

08

Policy and Legal

Power Ministry Reconsidering 10 kW Net Metering cap for Rooftop Solar

34

COUNTER VIEW

The Future of Swappable Batteries in the Electric Vehicles Sector

16

EV Updates

36

Grid and Transmission

21

Innovations

37

Milestone

Panasonic Life Solutions India to Provide Charging Infra to PMI for 1000 e-Buses

StoreDot Launches its 1st Gen ‘5-Minute Charge’ Li-ion EV Battery Samples

EPTA Seeking Resolution of RoW for RE Evacuation Projects in Gujarat

Pepsico Sets new Goal to cut Carbon Emissions by More Than 40% by 2030

26

Finance News

40

Report

32

FEATURE

44

Projects and Tenders

CDC Announces $30 Mn Green Lending Facility to Tata Cleantech Capital

Solis Makes A Point, With 1 GW Milestone In India

6

Solar now the Cheapest Source of new Power in Many Markets: WoodMac

GUVNL RFS For 500 MW Solar Projects Under Phase XII Out

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

34

|

I |N |S |I |D |E

|

23 COVER STORY

The 2021 Roadmap For Solar

18

SPECIALS

58

57

NISE Develops Solar Powered Products Besides Testing and Certification

JA N UA RY 20 21

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

7

|

P |O |L |I |C |Y |& |L |E |G |A |L

|

Power Ministry Reconsidering 10 kW Net Metering cap for Rooftop Solar

T

he Ministry of Power (MoP) has issued a clarification for its Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules 2020, stating that it will reexamine the provision for capping net metering at 10 kW for rooftop solar installations under the new consumer rules. The ministry stated

that in the draft of the Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules 2020, which was floated for stakeholders consultation, the cap was set at 5 kW capacity for individual rooftop solar systems for net metering. However, based on the comments from the consumers, industry and Discoms, the

provision was revised to 10 kW in the final bill. The decision, as per the ministry, was decided considering the financial health of the Discoms in the country. Stating that it is crucial for the sustainability of the entire value chain of the power sector, i.e. transmission, trading, generation and coal companies, the electrical equipment suppliers.

“Stating that prior consultation was not done is not correct,” the ministry stated, in response to new representations and comments made by industry stakeholders.

However, the ministry also heeded the request made by the industry stakeholders.

And stated that it will examine all such representations and requests, and based on that it will take a call to balance out the interest of all the stakeholders in the bill.

“However, some representations have been received on the issue, which are being examined and based on this a call will be taken for balancing the interest of all stakeholders,” it stated.

India Signs Strategic Partnership Agreement With the IEA

T

he Framework for Strategic Partnership between the International Energy Agency (IEA) members and the Government of India was signed on January 27, 2021, to strengthen mutual trust and cooperation, and enhance global energy security, stability and sustainability. As per the terms of the partnership agreement, this new collaboration will lead to an extensive exchange of knowledge and would be a stepping stone towards India becoming a full member of the IEA. The MoU was signed by Sanjiv Nandan Sahai, Secretary (Power) from the Indian side and Dr. Fatih Birol, IEA Executive Director from the

8

IEA side.

“Today is a historic day. The signing of this agreement reaffirms and advances the invaluable relationship that IEA members and India have,” said Sahai. “Under the framework of this newly formed alliance, we will establish with the IEA the key steps for enhancing energy security and

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

substantive cooperation across the full spectrum of IEA activities. We hope this partnership leads to an extensive exchange of knowledge and can be a stepping stone towards India becoming a full member of the IEA.” The contents of the strategic partnership will be jointly

decided by the IEA Members and India, including a phased increase in benefits and responsibilities for India as an IEA Strategic partner, and building on existing areas of work within Association and the Clean Energy Transitions Programme (CETP), such as Energy Security, Clean & Sustainable Energy, Energy Efficiency, Enhancing petroleum storage capacity in India, Expansion of gas-based economy in India etc.

The IEA Secretariat will be responsible for implementation of the cooperative activities in India and for facilitating discussion between the IEA Members and India to further develop the Strategic Partnership.

|

P |O |L |I |C |Y |& |L |E |G |A |L

|

MNRE Releases Advisory, Clarifying Rooftop Solar Scheme to Vendors

T

he Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) released an advisory to clarify the Rooftop Solar Scheme regarding which many vendors are in confusion.

MNRE is implementing the Gridconnected Rooftop Solar Scheme (Phase-II) to generate solar power by installing rooftop solar panels on the houses. Under which the ministry is providing 40 percent subsidy for the first 3 kW and 20 percent subsidy beyond 3 kW or up to 10 kW of installed capacity. The scheme is being implemented in the states by local Electricity Distribution Companies (DISCOMs).

Moreover, some rooftop solar companies/ vendors are setting up rooftop solar plants by claiming that they are authorised vendors by the Ministry. The MNRE however stated, “It is clarified that no vendor has been authorised by the Ministry.

This scheme is being implemented in the

state only by Discoms. The Discoms have empaneled vendors through a bidding process and have decided rates for setting up a rooftop solar plant.”

To resolve this problem MNRE released the advisory after receiving many complaints that some rooftop solar companies and vendors were setting up rooftop solar plants by claiming that they

were authorised by the ministry. Along with this, MNRE has also received complaints that some vendors are charging more price than the rates decided by DISCOMs from domestic consumers. “Which is incorrect.

Consumers are advised to pay only according to the rates decided by Discoms.

The Discoms have been instructed to identify and punish such vendors,” it stated.

Under the Grid-connected Rooftop Solar Scheme (Phase-II), all the Discoms have issued an online process for this purpose.

Residential consumers willing to set-up a rooftop solar plant can apply online and get rooftop solar plants installed by listed vendors. For this, they have to pay the cost of the rooftop solar plant by reducing the subsidy amount given by the Ministry as per the prescribed rate to the vendor. The process of which is given on the online portal of the Discoms. The subsidy amount will be provided to the vendors by the Ministry through the Discoms.

CERC Finally Restarts, Will APTEL Pick Pace Now?

W

ith the Supreme Court yesterday allowing the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) to resume administrative operations, the stage is finally set for a semblance of normality to return to some of the highest dispute resolution bodies in the Indian power sector. While the CERC was effectively shut down

10

by the SC since August last year, the top tribunal, APTEL, is still in a funk, with the Corona pandemic being repeatedly cited to push all but the most important case hearings ahead.

Barely any significant judgements have been passed there since November. With the blame being placed squarely on the video led proceedings, the challenge for CERC to catch up

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

is even higher till normalcy returns. The CERC resolution follows the appointment of a legal member by the government. This also means that the fate of the 174 reserved judgements that was hanging in limbo, has been cleared, with the court not inclined to relook those, despite the judgements being written when the legal member was not a part of the

CERC. The court has laid down that any fresh adjudicatory work by the two existing members- I S Jha, former Power Grid Corp chairman, and Arun Goyal, IAS– can begin only when the member (law) takes charge.

Ravi Sharma, the advocate-onrecord who had filed the case against the government at the SC, says that “Hon’ble SC has accepted my suggestions to let both the members resume their and perform administrative functions but adjudicatory functions will commence once member (law) joins the office,” .

With a massive backlog stretching over almost 5 months now, the new members will find their work cut out, and it remains to be seen if the commission looks at ways to clear the same at a faster rate than usual.

ELEGANT YET POWERFUL

SMART AND POWERFUL MAX

M I N 2 . 5 - 6 k T L -X

M A X 5 0 - 8 0 K T L 3 LV / M V

Better User Experience OLED Display & Touch Button

High Yields 6 MPPTs, Max. Efficiency 99%

Aerospace Grade Material Lighter and Flame-Retardant

Smart & Capable Quad-Core, One-Click Diagnosis

Safe & Reliable Type II SPD, AFCI Optional

Safe & Reliable Type II SPD, AFCI, Anti-PID

Easy Maintenance Online Smart Service

Easy Maintenance Online Smart Service

(MAX 50-80KTL3 LV/MV) (MIN 2.5-6KTL-X)

Service Hotline: 1800 120 600 600 (TOLL FREE)

|

P |O |L |I |C |Y |& |L |E |G |A |L

|

India and Denmark Launch Green Strategic Partnership

I

ndia and Denmark have begun a new era in the form of a “far reaching Green Strategic Partnership” that will enable Denmark in delivering sustainable solutions to India. The Green Strategic Partnership is a mutually beneficial arrangement to advance political cooperation, expand economic relations and green growth, create jobs and strengthen cooperation on addressing global challenges and opportunities; with focus on an ambitious implementation of the Paris Agreement and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

The agreement is in line with the vision expressed by H.E. Mette Frederiksen, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Denmark and Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, who held a virtual summit on September 28, 2020. The two Prime Ministers acknowledged the importance of establishing the Green Strategic Partnership, under which India and Denmark will cooperate through relevant Ministries, institutions and stakeholders.

This partnership will build on and consolidate the existing agreement establishing a Joint Commission for

Cooperation (signed 6 February 2009) between India and Denmark that envisaged cooperation within the political field; economic and commercial field; science and technology; environment; energy; education and culture. Additionally, it builds on and complements the existing Joint Working Groups on Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Urban Development, Environment, Renewable Energy, Food Processing, Science, Technology and Innovation, Shipping, Labour Mobility and Digitisation. Modi also suggested to explore the opportunity for creating IndiaDenmark Skill Institute to help Danish companies operating in India to select the people that they require from the local skilled population. Speaking about the Green Strategic Partnership, the Danish Ambassador to India, H.E. Freddy Svane said, “The Green Strategic Partnership is a vital milestone in the ever closer cooperation between India and Denmark.

Both countries are working on governmentto-government level in the strategic sectors of energy, water and environment, urbanisation and IPR. This new age partnership will not only lead to creating a green and sustainable future but will also boost job creation, innovation and investments.”

MNRE Extends Last Date for BIS Testing to June 30, 2021

R

esponding to pleas by multiple manufacturers and trade bodies, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has extended the last date for self certification for SPV (Solar) inverters has been extended yet again from December 31 2020 to June 30, 2021 now. This is subject to the condition that relevant manufacturers will have valid IEC certificates corresponding to the relevant items specified in its notice from international test labs.

The order will come as a relief to many manufacturers who had been complaining about long delays at BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) testing labs, besides the issue of costs and testing facilities for high capacity inverters. We have seen how firms that did manage to get their BIS certifications have seen it as a big achievement in the recent past. The delays have been so problematic,

12

that right now it is probably a competitive advantage to have managed the certification. BIS is the National Standard Body of India established under the BIS Act 2016. The body has its Headquarters at New

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

Delhi and five regional Offices (ROs) at Kolkata (Eastern), Chennai (Southern), Mumbai (Western), Chandigarh (Northern) and Delhi (Central). Multiple branch offices are linked to these regional offices too.

The BIS certification is critical to be considered for most projects involving government entities or funding, and go towards reassuring buyers of your product quality even otherwise in India. The process is obviously complicated, which explains the proliferation of multiple BIS registration consultants across India, besides accredited labs for testing. The government has steadfastly refused demands from a section of overseas manufacturers to allow globally respected testing standards as a substitute, which has meant that these manufacturers have to go through the whole process all over again in India to sell.

ii ii j;i� j■� II II., II •'ll II ,�, II JJ �1

the way to ENERGY

India Today Leading Magazine ofIndia Cover our Success Story in December 2020 addition • • • • • ,i,., I f'�;:;�:, ��-,�� ::i.:.�.,. j:-;; · ._ .. , i:�:-:::•• ,..._. _-.,�,-:-- .-..� �.--:.�•:--:..:::•,-:-

• ·• r..ah-. h 1.•1• • •• • • •• I• • ...... -,,. • • • • • · ....... ,_...,

�->-;�-::,: ;!�·�:�:::: ·; :·��-::�."

-.:•.-.-��:.:.�-=-,.r.�•••,:-- � ;,:;:•;�•r.-: •�;• ,', :.-·.:�

·.� .....,.., •..-

· .. :=•.-:�_:; :� ... &..a ._ • •�• .a ,.. ""••" u■ 11u , 1•1•• II I I ... � ■ ■ � .. -� ,..,. , • •• _. .4• •• ,,,. ,l,1,lo•N••• •1,-.L •1 * u •• 11• _ • h• �: :� �-� •:•,:��.:� :•:.:•• ;

• ��i:. .-�•; • �

�.. ,._;-": ••• �

I,:•,:•; •--:::•••:•:•:� ; ::•:. •; �:•."'.•.� •.•::-:

� '...•: L�

... .... .. ��=�\;;·f4_�'f(� fj:!.f.·;..��::,�-���:

.:;__� .:;_ ,;_ ·.�·.;::,: :.:· ·; ::;.; :,· ;;,-;..,, :.:· ,.,. · - ··-· • • •• •, . ···- • •• • • • , • ' .:.. ...... •l'l ....o, ';""

��;.-�.v� . ...

.....

,.,. • • r ....• ••• .... , r • ••• •• • ■-•o.-r.• n •.&•••- • • t •.r., , ... , .:. ,.,r ..

••••r• II ·•••· -•- •-•- ' ·• 0 -•"•·••• ·••·Eolloo ...., ..... ··, .., .

Manufatturingjlnit) 200 MW Pn:'dudion Capacity

330/335wP

400wP

l)(�ll l'UOIHJI.E IIONO PEil(�

.. . -

-

=:: :.:_�: ,_:_.-t:0'.:7- ::::_;._: ;.-,:.:_=-.:·_-:�·=-'

l'.f:�· :·�:·,_:::�_'.·;;'., I., .. I ■1 11 �1- • .. • ••

....

......

00 .& ..... •,_., • I, . r• I" ........... ..... II P .. . . , .... .. -·· .... ,.... . .. .. ..... •◄·-··-·· • • •• . •• .,. ,.., , ., , , Fo ,- .,.. ..... r. 1n11•• ,. ... r•••o.nu11 • ., ••u• • 11, .

1 • 1•1 .. · ·;--;• · · :.. . ..

. .....

:: : . : . .

,..,..,.(..,"Da.U.Y

.........:..•.

�-�

:. .',.

.. .. ... ........ ........ . . .. :·· ·. � ;,•:: .- :.-: .:,. ·: ··-.-

�.

:-:

.,; ,•• • ..... � .. ... _.,,......, 1_, · -·· .,., ,. · • 11. r •a.•·••• .. u• h.rl ••• •. ••• '•l••I,..,.._ • . . •••-••••·

•· •.•• ,.. :

�·,.':__.:-• . . ., . _ • • n,uo,, P ...-r ■ ,,� H , , ,..•.•rr•• •-••-"•• ••• •••• r•,

�-��.L · .. ,.�,", ·.;, ·; i

:·�-�-.:\.; ��:•<·,:-.,�

....:.:·:t.·.:.::..:: :.. ::. ':�:..: --�=:.� - ::: ::·_··. -�::.. ....... ..... ... ""' .. , ..... - ......... .- ....,, ...ou- ... ,,.r., ... . . ,:·_· .:.::..·�:: :t· .. ·.:."": ..�---'.:::·.. ::. : �-� ... .•.

......... . ......... "" ....................... ........o.1 , ..... ..

• J' :• .:-,:·. •••

Insolation Energy Pvt. Ltd.

(Solar Panel, Batteries & PCU)

JAIPUR

Reg. Off.

G-25,City Centre,S.C.Road,JAIPUR - 302 001 (Rajasthan) INDIA 0141-4019103,4029103,Fax:0141-4049103

Works

25 KM Milestone,Jaipur-Delhi Bypass,Near Daulatpura Toll Tax, Viii - Bagwara,JAIPUR-303805 {Rajasthan ) INDIA, M:+91-9116122135 / 36

Delhi Off.

502-A, Arunachal Building, Barakhamba Road, Connaught Place, New Delhi-01, INDIA tr 011-43723333

(9 Toll Free: 1800 212 1806

@info@insolationenergy.in

G www.insolationenergy.in

(€

|

P |O |L |I |C |Y |& |L |E |G |A |L

|

Bengal Finally Opens Up Net Metering For Homes, With 5 KW Limit

W

est Bengal, a perennial laggard on the renewable energy front, and a huge defender of coal fired energy to boot, has finally started taking its first tentative steps towards more renewable energy. The West Bengal Electricity Regulatory Commission (WBERC) has finally allowed net metering for individual households from 1 KW, upto a limit of 5 kw. Earlier, residential category was kept out of net metering purview altogether, with only institutional, commercial,

industrial and cooperative housing allowed the benefit of net metering, again with a 5 KW limit.

Among large states in India, West Bengal has the worst record on meeting its renewable purchase obligations (RPO), at less than 5 percent of targets.

Worst, the state if among the higher users of ‘dirty coal’ in power plants located inside the state, as per a study by the Centre For Science and Environment.

The WBERC in its recent amendments to the

Cogeneration and Electricity Generation from Renewable Sources Regulations 2013 had allowed net metering for individual households from 1 KW but had restricted it to 5 KW. All sanctions over 5 KW came with gross metering, something that served to stifle any possible uptake at a large scale effectively. The few solar plants that have been made for over 5 KW have usually been for captive consumption so far in the state.

Allowing net metering for residential category is a good

move, although it remains to be seen if it has any significant impact, considering the other conditions. For instance, the state has retained the condition of sanctions equal to or less than original load sanction for a house. Under the net metering rules, the state has allowed setoff of up to 90 per cent of solar power generation for any month. Plus, all such energy will count towards the RPO of a distribution licensee of course.

The state has a target of 3 percent from solar energy for 2020-21.

Cabinet Approves MoU Between India and Uzbekistan for Cooperation in Solar Energy

T

he Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi was apprised of the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Uzbekistan for cooperation in the field of Solar Energy.

The main area of work under is to identify research/ demonstration/ pilot projects between the National Institute of Solar

14

Energy (NISE), Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) India and the International Solar Energy Institute (ISEI), Uzbekistan in the following mutually identified areas: Solar Photovoltaic Storage Technologies Transfer of Technology Based on mutual agreement, both parties

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

would work for the implementation and deployment of pilot projects in International Solar Alliance (ISA) member countries.

In June 2020, India and Denmark had signed an MoU on Indo-Denmark Energy Cooperation to develop a strong, deep and long-term co-operation between the two countries in the power sector. The agreement was planned to further provide collaboration in areas such as – offshore wind, long term energy planning, forecasting, flexibility in the grid, consolidation of grid codes to integrate and operate efficiently variable generation options, flexibility in the power purchase agreements, incentivise power plant flexibility, variability in renewable energy production, etc.

In April 2019, the Union Cabinet, chaired

by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, given its approval for a Cooperation Agreement between the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy of India and the Ministry for Energy, Utilities and Climate of the Kingdom of Denmark on strategic sector cooperation in the field of Renewable Energy with a focus on Offshore Wind Energy.

|

E |V |U |P |D |A |T |E |S

|

Panasonic Life Solutions India to Provide Charging Infra to PMI for 1000 e-Buses

P

anasonic Life Solutions India has formed a partnership with PMI Electro Mobility to provide hightech EV charging infrastructure. In the first phase of rollout the firm will provide PMI with EV charging infrastructure across 17 cities for operating more than 1000 electric buses. Commenting on the new partnership, Satish Jain, PMI Electro Mobility, said “PMI has to supply

1000 Electric buses to across 18 cities in India, on Gross Cost Contract Basis. The buses shall operate 200~220 kms on a daily basis. For which, a reliable charging infra partner is needed. Panasonic being one of the most reputable brands provides additional comfort. The chargers provided

by Panasonic are one of the most advanced, and fast chargers by which we will be able to charge our buses within 40 mins. PMI is

proud to be a strong partner in the current e-mobility movement in India and takes pride in being a major stakeholder in the public transportation sector.”

Panasonic Life Solution India’s electric mobility ecosystem portfolio includes AC chargers and DC chargers. With these services, the aim is to cater to the EV fleet owners, e-commerce, and logistics companies at large, thereby supporting them to manage their fleet efficiently.

Dinesh Aggarwal, Joint Managing Director, Panasonic Life Solutions India said that “the opportunity for electric mobility in the country is huge and it is paving the pathway for electrification across other modes of transport. We are excited about extending our e-mobility services across the states of Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, West Bengal, and Odisha in the first phase.

With this, we aim to create an infrastructure that will cater to the unsatiated needs of multiple stakeholders and inspire the public to use sustainable technologies such as EV instead of private vehicles in the country.”

E2W Firm Simple Energy to Invest Rs 45 Crore on Production Facility

B

engaluru-based EV start-up Simple Energy, which is all set to roll out its maiden electric scooter in the first half of 2021, is planning to invest around Rs 45 crore in setting up a production facility.

According to their founder Suhas Rajkumar, the startup will raise USD 8 million (around Rs 58.50 crore) in Series-A funding by March-April for setting up the plant and product launch. “We are investing Rs 45 crore in setting up the manufacturing facility,” he said.

The plant, which will initially have a capacity to produce

16

50,000 vehicles in the first year of the commissioning, will come

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

up at near Hosur in Tamil Nadu.

Besides launching the flagship Mark 2, the company may add another product in its portfolio during the current year but has not yet decided whether it will be a bike or a better-version of the scooter. “We are looking to set up our factory around Hosur (an industrial city in the Krishanigiri district of Tamil Nadu) at a capacity of 50,000 units for the first year. The plant set-up will begin from June-July, post the launch. We are keeping a minimal time gap between the launch and the delivery of the product,”

Rajkumar told local press.

Rajkumar said the capital requirement initially is around USD 15 million for rapidly expanding the business to 4-5 cities. The company will launch Mark 2 by the first half of this year in three prime locations – Bengaluru, Chennai and Delhi – to begin with and then gradually expand to other cities such as Mumbai, Hyderabad and Kolkata.

Mark 2 will have a range of 230 km and come with a removable battery, and a top speed of 100 kilometres per hour (kph).

|

E |V |U |P |D |A |T |E |S

|

Zypp Electric to Deploy 5k Battery Swapping Stations Across 100 Cities

G

urugram based provider of Electric Vehicles for last-mile delivery of essentials, Zypp Electric has set its goals of installing five thousand battery swapping stations in three years, across 100 cities. The company will install the battery swapping stations for electric two wheelers (E2Ws) and electric three wheelers (E3Ws).

Zypp provides eco-friendly deliveries that reduce the carbon footprint and makes the environment pollution free, with welltrained delivery personnel and provides customised last-mile

deliveries & an affordable fleet according to consumer’s requirements.

The last-mile delivery provider is operational in six cities, has set up 50 battery swapping stations across Delhi NCR, and Jaipur.

Their fleet of electric scooters is provided with chargeable batteries, prolonged durability, and easy access codes. The EV startup will be investing Rs 50 crore over the defined time in setting up these stations. A two-wheeler battery swapping and charging station will cost Rs 1 lakh to the company, said Akash Gupta, Co-founder, and CEO of Zypp.

The company, which works with 350 business-to-business (B2B) merchants to carry out last-mile deliveries for them, currently has about 1,000 electric scooters on its platform. It has partnered with top e-commerce and e-grocery companies like Amazon, Big Basket, Future Group, Flipkart, Spencers, and many more hyperlocal merchants and helped them deliver essentials to their end customer’s homes.

“We’ve got 1,000 electric scooters, and we are growing quite rapidly into expanding this to 10,000 over the next 12-14 months. In terms of growth, the business has grown almost 6X compared to the pre-COVID-19 period both in terms of revenue and number of shipments that we deliver,” Gupta said.

Electric Buses Start Off In Andaman, Supporting Emissions Clean Up

T

he Lieutenant Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands flagged-off a fleet of 14 electric buses on Republic Day. The project for 40 electric buses is being executed by National Thermal Power Corporation Limited (NTPC)

Vidyut Vyapar Nigam Limited (NVVN Limited), a 100 percent subsidiary of NTPC Limited, a PSU under Ministry of Power, Government of India. Charging infra for these buses has been established with the help of the local electricity department and

APWD in Port Blair. Routes in South Andamans have also been checked for load and driving conditions.

The introduction of electric buses in the Island union territory will help cut down tailpipe emissions as well as DEC EMB ER 20 20

provide comfortable public transport for people there.

Electric buses have been a key part of the push for cleaner transportation, especially public transportation, as the latter has been both underfunded and fossil fuels driven till now in India.

In addition to the above project, NVVN has emerged as a successful bidder for providing a turnkey solution for 90 electric buses in Bengaluru under the Smart City project.

These buses will provide lastmile connectivity to the NAMMA Metro (Bengaluru Metro) network.Moreover, NVVN is developing and providing a complete range of zero-emission mobility solutions for various vehicle segments, to encourage faster migration to electric vehicles.

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

17

|

E |V |U |P |D |A |T |E |S

|

EV Startup Rivian Raises USD 2.65 Billion, Led by T. Rowe Price

R

ivian, an electric vehicle (EV) startup, provider of electric SUVs, has announced the closing of its latest investment round of USD 2.65 billion led by T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. This round also included Fidelity Management and Research Company, Amazon’s Climate Pledge Fund, Coatue, and D1 Capital Partners as well as several other existing and new investors.

On raising such a big investment, the Founder and CEO of Rivian, RJ Scaringe stated, “This is a critical year for us as we are launching the R1T, the R1S, and the Amazon commercial delivery vehicles.

The support and confidence of our investors enable us to remain focused on these launches while simultaneously scaling our business for our next stage of growth.”

This round is the first investment that the company has raised in 2021 so far. This makes a total investment of USD 8 billion Rivian has raised, since its start in 2019.

In July 2020, the start-up captured a USD 2.5 billion investment round led by funds and accounts advised by T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. “We have been eagerly anticipating the arrival of 2021, and with it, the exhilaration of Rivian starting to deliver its revolutionary

products to customers. It is invigorating for us to continue our journey with such a talented, mission-driven team building a robust organization for the long term,” said Joe Fath, T. Rowe Price portfolio manager.

In 2019, Rivian closed an investment round of USD 1.3 billion in December. The financing was led by funds and accounts advised by T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. with additional participation from Amazon, Ford Motor Company, and funds managed by BlackRock.

Transport Department Tenders For Operation of 575 Electric Buses in Delhi

T

ransport Department of Delhi has issued three request for qualification and proposals (RFQP) for the operation of 575 electric buses (E-buses) in the capital. Three tenders have been issued by the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) for RFQP of 275, 110, and 190 E-buses under the E1, E2, and E3 clusters respectively under the cluster scheme of GNCTD. As per the tender documents, the GNCTD has

18

inducted 2,897 buses under the Cluster Program for the Operation of Private Stage Carriages services in Delhi.

Interested bidders can submit their bids by March 16, 2021. A pre-bid meeting has been scheduled for February 5, 2021, to address the concern raised by the prospective bidders. As per the tender, the E-buses should be low-floored, batterypowered, air-conditioned private stage carriage vehicles under the cluster program of the GNCTD.

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

Bidders are expected to submit an earnest money deposit of Rs. 17.25 crore as a Bid Security.

GNCTD and the Department of Transport announced they would provide subsidies for the electric buses secured by the winning bidder. A 40 percent subsidy of the cost of the bus will be provided in line with Phase II of the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME II) program.

Consequently, The Delhi government has been

planning to build on an effective Electric Vehicles (EVs) charging infrastructure across the national capital for faster uptake of EVs, according to the Delhi EV Policy, 2020 targets 25 percent of all new vehicle registrations by 2024 to be Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs). To encourage the rapid adoption of electric vehicles, the government is focusing on the “speedy rollout of Electric Vehicle charging Infrastructure in Delhi”.

|

E |V |U |P |D |A |T |E |S

|

US to Deploy 50 Million EVs by 2030, Accelerating EV Adoption

T

he Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) has released a report, ‘Racing to Accelerate Electric Vehicle Adoption: Decarbonising Transportation with Ride hailing’. The Report gives insights into the Decarbonisation goals of the US. As the race is on to deploy over 50 million electric vehicles (EVs) in the United States in the coming ten years. That will put the US transportation sector on the way to restrain global warming to 1.5°C. However, to achieve this scale of deployment, the US must accelerate the

rapid decarbonisation of the transportation sector by electrifying transportation network company (TNC) ride hailing vehicles. Ride hailers like Uber and Lyft, is critical to accelerating the electric vehicle transition and provides key catalytic opportunities by increasing the availability of low-cost, efficient charging infrastructure; lowering EV operational cost and spreading awareness and education. Moreover, to electrify ridehailing vehicles at scale, key industry stakeholders must collaborate. The report

concluded three requisite implementations, after analyzing electric and gasoline ridehailing vehicle data. Those Three implementations are: Technological Capability: EVs must be technologically capable of replacing internal combustion engine vehicles in TNC applications.

Financial Competitiveness: Steps must be taken to improve the financial competitiveness of EVs for ridehailing such as lowering the price and increasing access to charging, implementing enabling EV leasing and rental models, and leveraging the used EV market.

Charging Infrastructure: Robust infrastructure is essential and can be made viable through coordinated stakeholder action and further focused research.

Although EV financial competitiveness and technological capability are necessary for EV adoption to accelerate, they are not sufficient in themselves. A robust charging network is also a precondition for ride hailing EV adoption—without it, drivers will not have the confidence to adopt EVs.

Ola to Access Siemens’ Integrated Digital Twin Design For EV Manufacturing

I

ndian ride-hailing firm Ola has announced that it has partnered with Siemens to access the integrated digital twin design for building its electric vehicle (EV), AI-driven manufacturing unit.

Back in 2020, Ola signed an MoU with the government of Tamil Nadu to build the largest electric two-wheelers (E2Ws) manufacturing unit by investing 2,400 Crores.

According to the firm, the factory will generate almost 10,000 jobs with an initial capacity of 2 million E2Ws units a year. Also, it will be the largest scooter manufacturing facility in the world. It will serve as

Ola’s global manufacturing hub catering to its customers in India as well as key markets across Europe, UK, Latin America, and ANZ. Additionally, the factory will be built on Industry 4.0 principles and will be the most advanced manufacturing facility with having almost

5,000 robots deployed across various functions.

Subsequent to this partnership, Ola will now have access to Siemens’ integrated Digital Twin design and manufacturing solutions to digitalise and validate product and production ahead of actual operations. It will be AI-Powered with Ola’s proprietary AI Engine and tech stack deeply integrated into every aspect of the manufacturing process. This will provide unique control, automation, and quality to entire operations, especially with Ola’s implementation of cyber-physical and advanced DEC EMB ER 20 20

IoE systems.

These advanced technology systems will seamlessly blend with Ola’s workforce to provide the perfect synergy of humans and machines to build the production system efficiently and deliver the highest quality products for Ola’s customers.

Additionally, Siemens has recently released its new public fast charger Sicharge D. It is suited for highway and urban fast-charging stations, city parking as well as shopping malls. The Sicharge D has a scalable charging power of up to 300 kW, either from the start or through plug-and-play upgrades.

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

19

|

E |V |U |P |D |A |T |E |S

|

EV Battery Startup Gegadyne Energy Welcomes $5 Mn Investment from V-Guard

M

umbai based, quick electric vehicle (EVs) battery provider Gegadyne Energy Labs Pvt Ltd announced receiving an investment of USD 5 million from electric appliance maker, V-Guard. Gegadyne Energy has developed and pioneered the Quick Charging Battery Technology through a Portfolio of International Patents. Gegadyne Energy’s battery consists of unique proprietary Nano-material composites and advance battery architectures to enable quick charging batteries with high energy density similar to lithium-ion batteries.

As the company says, the EVs of the future will not only be defined by the size of the battery pack but also by the battery technology that it uses. Gegadyne claims it has built a technology that allows batteries to charge from zero to 100 percent in around 15 minutes. Gegadyne’s battery composites are efficiently developed to enable batteries with better storage capacity and higher cycle life as it consists of drop-in technology which generates consistent energy output and optimal capacity maintenance. The material has a high energy density, is very stable under constant cycling, and features very high power capacities. Their materials are synthesised via simple, inexpensive, and environmentally-friendly processes, which can easily be scaled for EV, industrial storage, or consumer electronic battery production. Expressing his thought on receiving the investment, Jubin Verghese stated, “We are elated to have V-Guard Industries as an Investor on our mission to build the next generation of battery technology that will revolutionise the field of energy storage and catapult India to be self-reliant in advance battery chemistry.”

“This will help for better utilisation of capital for all high-value work. It’s still early days for the scale that we wish to grow to.

We have tens of thousands more to go to cover the world with our technology, for it to be in every battery pack sold across the globe,” he added.

20

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

NextEra Energy to Pursue Electrification of School & Public Transportation in US & Canada

N

extEra Energy, the world’s largest generator of renewable energy from wind and solar resources, has announced that to has entered into a framework agreement with First Student and First Transit to establish a joint venture to pursue the electrification of tens of thousands of school and public transportation vehicles across the US and Canada. The collaboration, the firm claims, brings together North America’s market leaders in school and public transportation and renewable energy to foster innovation and accelerate the mass adoption of zeroemission vehicles. “The transition to electric vehicles for the school and public transportation sector is expected to play a critical role in helping communities improve air quality and environmental health for student passengers, transit riders and area residents. In addition, utilising the sizeable batteries of school and public transportation electric vehicle fleets

for distributed energy storage and grid services has the potential to make a significant contribution to long-term sustainable clean energy transition in North America,” the firm stated.

The companies are collaborating to address the school bus market opportunities by first capitalising on First Student’s fleet of 43,000 yellow school buses, the single largest fleet in North America, and nearly 500 depots located across 40 US states and seven Canadian provinces. The two countries combined represent one of the world’s largest public transit markets, with approximately 160,000 buses and other vehicles in total. In addition, there are significant fleet opportunities in shuttle services that address a variety of passenger transportation needs. The collaboration intends to focus on First Transit’s base of more than 300 customers to create new business opportunities and revenue streams associated with fleet electrification.

Hyundai India Signs MoU with FITT – IIT Delhi, Donates KONA Electric

T

he Indian subsidiary of South Korean multinational automotive manufacturer, Hyundai Motor India Foundation has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer (FITT) – IIT Delhi.

This collaboration is being done for IIT Delhi students to study alternate energy powered vehicles and emerging technologies to innovate new-age mobility solutions. The company has also donated its KONA Electric to FITT-IIT Delhi for NVH and battery technology research to aid the students in their study and research. “We are glad to collaborate with FITT- IIT Delhi to support the research work of students of Centre for Automotive Research and Tribology (CART). As a caring and socially responsible brand, Hyundai strongly focuses on the development of new-age mobility solutions and future technologies that encompass the rapid shift towards alternate sources of clean energy,” commented Mr. S S Kim, MD &

CEO, Hyundai Motor India. On the collaboration with FITT – IIT Delhi, Kim further added, “Our collaborated efforts with IIT Delhi and the donation of KONA Electric will provide an opportunity for students to study & develop insights towards a brighter & greener future for the generations to come.”

Moreover, the Centre for Automotive Research and Tribology (CART) will conduct Battery profiling in KONA Electric. By working with external sensors or other gadgets using OBD port to understand the performance of Electric Vehicle during different driving conditions for research & training. FITT is a unit established by IIT Delhi to raise, develop and maintain the commercialization of research results at IIT Delhi. Speaking on the pact signed with Hyundai Motors India Foundation, Prof. V Ramgopal Rao, Director, IIT Delhi, stated, “I am happy to note that the Centre for Automotive Research and Tribology (CART) at IIT Delhi shall carry out various R&D projects with Hyundai in the broad area of e-mobility.”

|

I |N |N |O |V |A |T|I |O |N |S|

StoreDot Launches its 1st Gen ‘5-Minute Charge’ Li-ion EV Battery Samples

S

toreDot, a leading Israeli innovator and developer of extreme fast charging (XFC) battery technology, has announced the availability of its first-generation ‘5-minute charge’ battery engineering samples. Representing a significant milestone for the company in its mission to eliminate the range and charging anxiety of electric vehicles (EVs), demonstrating the commercial viability of XFC batteries for the first time via a small form-factor battery cell.

The firm is releasing the first production batch of sample cells, which is targeted at showcasing the technology to potential EV and industry partners. This first-generation battery was used to demonstrate the full charge of a

two-wheeled EV in just 5 minutes for the first time and can offer ultra-fast charging to a number of other industries, such as commercial drones and consumer electronics. The firstgeneration engineering samples demonstrate to EV OEMs and battery manufacturers the successful replacement of

graphite in the cell’s anode using metalloid nano-particles – a key breakthrough in overcoming major issues in safety, battery cycle life and swelling.

The sample cells were produced by the firms’ strategic partner in China – EVE Energy.

Crucially, unlike competing

technologies that require significant capital expenditure in bespoke manufacturing equipment, StoreDot XFC batteries are designed to be produced on existing Li-ion production lines at EVE Energy. The samples are compliant with UN 38.3, which ensures the safety of Li-ion batteries during shipping.

Dr. Doron Myersdorf, CEO of StoreDot, said “StoreDot continues to go from strength to strength as we get one step closer to making our vision of 5-minute charging of EVs a commercial reality. Our team of top scientists has overcome inherent challenges of XFC such as safety, cycle life and swelling by harnessing innovative materials and cell design.

Researchers Propose Zinc Based, Low-Cost Anode Free Batteries

T

he researchers, Yunpei Zhu, Yi Cui, and Husam N. Alshareef from ACS’ Nano Letters, decided to make a battery in which a zinc-rich cathode is a sole source for zinc plating onto a copper current collector, for energy storage systems.

While conventional lithium-ion batteries work efficiently enough but, the problem with those is the limited amount of lithium and the safety issue during the usage owing to Lithium’s volatility. To tackle these issues, the researchers tried developing a prototype of an anode-free, zinc-based battery.

In fact, these aqueous zinc-based batteries have been examined for grid-scale energy storage because of their safety and high energy density, earlier. Additionally, the materials used to make them are more easily available, especially zinc.

However, the rechargeable zinc batteries

developed so far have required thick zinc metal anodes that contain a large excess of zinc that increases cost. Although, the anodes are prone to form dendrites (the crystalline projections of zinc metal that deposit on the anode during charging), which can short-circuit the battery. So the

researchers adopted a manganese dioxide cathode that they pre-intercalated with zinc ions, an aqueous zinc trifluoromethane-sulfonate electrolyte solution, and a copper foil current collector.

While charging, zinc metal gets plated onto the copper foil, and during discharging the metal is peeled off, releasing electrons that power the battery. To stop dendrites formation, the researchers coated the copper current collector with a layer of carbon nanodiscs, that increases the uniform zinc plating, and the efficiency of zinc plating and stripping.

Interestingly with 62.8% of its storage capacity after 80 charging and discharging cycles, the battery presented promising efficiency, energy density, and stability.

According to the researchers, the anodefree battery design brings new ways to use aqueous zinc-based batteries in energy storage systems.

DEC EMB ER 20 20

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

21

|

C |O |V |E |R |S |T |O |R |Y|

The 2021

Roadmap For Solar

Sanjay Banga

22

Mahesh Kolli

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

Prabhajit Kumar

Rupam Raja

Dr. Paolo Frankl

|

C |O |V |E |R |S |T |O |R |Y|

W

ith the Budget 2021 finally behind us, India’s renewable energy sector, particularly solar has to reckon with a new reality finally. The renewable energy sector, especially solar, will have the government’s ear, but don’t expect any major moves anytime soon, as the government grapples with broader issues across the economy. Solar at least has the comfort of knowing this, because when it comes to wind energy, one wouldn’t like to be in the shoes of any wind energy developer right now. Not a mention in the budget, and certainly no indication from the MNRE or any other source on what to expect.

Irrespective, in a year when solar will definitely overtake wind energy capacity, just what does the year ahead hold for solar? We look at the three key issues that will determine success, namely, policy, politics and infrastructure and technology.

What looks like a manageable challenge is financing, especially for larger projects and developers. Thanks to a global liquidity tap that stays on, and the irresistible attraction of the world’s third largest energy market. Yes, it might take some extra resolve to stay the course with the vagaries of policy and challenges in India, but enough firms have made a decision to stay the course in the market here. Ditto for sourcing, with the government going with status quo on the basic customs duty issue, and a token duty hike on solar inverters, from 5 to 20 percent. At a project share of around 5-6 percent, the net impact on costs is well within limits, we are told.

Though manufacturers have already expressed their disappointment at the move, while hoping for a fresh take sooner than April 2022, the date everyone assumes will mark the next phase of the duty hikes on modules and cells

Policy: Supportive, But Tiring Nothing explains the approach of the solar sector to government policy better than the fact that the sector is still to get out of ‘incubation’ mode. By that, we are talking about a sector that looks to the government for support at every step, and leaves it to the government to decide almost every key move. Thus, be it the shift of focus to utility projects while ignoring rooftop solar, the massive plans for solar pumps and their uncertain benefits, or the increasingly mixed results of the reverse auction approach, the industry has chosen to accept quietly, more often than not whatever the government has deemed fit . That is probably because of the efforts they see the government make to ensure payments on priority from discoms for renewable generators, the ‘must run’ status for RE, or the renewable purchase obligations (RPO’s), which might just provide the next big push for the sector, should the electricity amendment Bill(2020) be passed anytime soon.

However, there is clearly a shortage of ideas at the government too now, when it comes to scaling up annual capacity creation from a barely achievable 10 GW per annum to the 25 GW per annum that the 2030 targets imply for solar. Power Minister R.K. Singh, who also doubles up as the MNRE minister is clearly at the end of squeezing out ‘synergies’ from having both portfolios, as the contradictions of pushing for renewables over a strong, well entrenched and still critical thermal base come home. He in fact has been brave to champion renewable energy, ignoring the strong interests of the massive coal ‘lobby’ and the world’s largest Coal miner, Coal India Limited. That India will need its thermal power for well into 2050 and beyond by every estimate only means that he can focus at most on retiring old plants that are farthest from coal

pitheads, as these are the ones where renewables offer a cost advantage today. For now, the best hope on the thermal front is the retirement of old coal based units totaling to 25,252 MW that been estimated for the period 2022-30.

Room For Growth: Per Capita Power Consumption (Kw/h) India

1181

Brazil

2404

China

3991

South Africa

3667

Russia

6418

South Africa

3667

US

11730

Source: CIA World Factbook, India from CEA

At a broader level, policy moves like the move to reform discoms with a Rs 3.6 lakh crore infusion over 5 years , or even the mandate to ensure 24X7 power for all have a strong influence on renewable growth, simply by creating space for them with the extra electricity demand and consumption that will result if India was to truly achieve 24X7 power. Post Budget, Sanjay Banga, President Transmission & Distribution, Tata Power, said that “Tata Power welcomes the step announced today for the distribution sector reforms as most of the Discoms are reeling under huge losses, and finding it difficult to provide the uninterrupted power supply. We also welcome the scheduled discussion on the Electricity Amendment Act 2021 during the ongoing budget session as when implemented in its true letter and spirit, the Act will provide the much-needed independence to the regulatory mechanism for effective and timely decision making. It will also pave the way for speedier implementation of the National Tariff Policy, a must for the tariff rationalisation across all segments of consumers. This is very crucial for overall industrial development for realization of Atmanirbhar Bharat. Besides the above, for the revival of the power sector the Government should use announced funds to provide transitional support to state governments who want to initiate distribution reforms by involving private sector players” Asked to venture a best case scenario for peak consumption by 2023, experts we spoke to arrived at a figure of 225-230 GW , from the current 190 GW (approx.) of peak demand that was seen on Jan 28,2020. That is a not so ambitious 10 percent growth for the coming two years. Importantly, these experts stressed that should these numbers happen, then it would also signal a momentum shift to maintain that grpwth path to 2025 and beyond. It’s a view that finds support from the Central Electricty Authority’s (CEA) own long term projections of consumption and capacities, as seen in the charts below from their latest Electric Power Survey (EPS).

DEC EMB ER 20 20

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

23

|

C |O |V |E |R |S |T |O |R |Y|

The One That Cannot be Missed: STORAGE

T

o understand the gap between intent and ability when it comes to policies and action on the ground, look no further than energy storage. Yes, energy storage , which, in our view, will be one of the most influential factors that decides the trajectory of solar growth. For not only will storage support the intermittency of solar energy production by balancing out supply with demand, other services linked to large batteries, from grid regulation to frequency management, don’t even exist due to a lack of legal framework on using these by discoms.

Earlier, speaking at the REINVEST 2020 event in December 2020, Mahesh Kolli, Joint Managing Director, Greenko Group, which won the largest chunk of SECI’s storage plus Renewable project had also highlighted his issues with battery storage. In explaining why Greenko was going for pumped storage at this stage. “In Karnataka RE penetration has gone from 6 percent in 2015 to 50 percent in 2020. Average cost of energy increased from Rs 3 to Rs 4, forcing the discom there to virtually halt any fresh RE additions since 2018-19. On the storage front, pumped storage comes at around $70 per MW h, versus battery

24

which is much higher at a minimum of $130 /MWh currently”. He suggested considering a move like a Storage Portfolio Obligation for discoms, much like the RPO’s driving renewable growth for now, as a possible starting point to ensure a start with battery storage in India. On the other hand, Rupam Raja, Market Director, India & SE Asia, Fluence had highlighted the 10 MW one hour battery storage plant in Delhi, active for about 10 months now. “Its giving a lot of info to help make policy. The challenge is while we have given discoms the option to contract renewables for RTC (Round the clock power), what we have not done is create a viable option where they can get away from signing a fixed contact for a firm capacity. So they need to get out of the fixed costs for fossil fuel alternatives.

Just focus on peaking need, such that discom does not have to sign a firm capacity contract with a gas or coal-based supplier, then you will see true value of a battery storage solution”.

Overall, the policy support is well captured by this post budget quote of Prabhajit Kumar Sarkar, MD & CEO – Power Exchange India Limited (PXIL) who says “The Union Budget for 2021-22 presented by the Finance

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today, has given a big push to the power sector by announcing close to Rs 3.06 lakh crore power distribution sector scheme. We welcome this move as it is expected to assist discoms for infrastructure creation tied to financial improvements, including prepaid smart metering, feeder separation and upgradation of systems.

Additionally, the government’s proposed framework to give consumers more than one discom choice was a much-needed move. It will help to enhance efficiency in the power distribution sector, induce fair competition and address the monopoly business of discoms. Besides, we foresee that reforms such as Rs 1,500 crore allocation for the renewable energy sector, 100 percent railway electrification & expansion of metro rail networks and hydrogen energy mission for generating hydrogen out of greenpowered sources will contribute significantly in enhancing the country’s power demand. PXIL, as a national power market infrastructure institution, welcomes the budget announcement and is ready to provide an efficient platform for an enhanced volume of trading and efficient electricity price discovery in the country.”

|

C |O |V |E |R |S |T |O |R |Y|

Source: CEA

Politics: All But Convinced

The Politics of pushing for more renewables, is surprisingly an issue that is much more manageable tan people imagine, in this current ‘polarised’ environment. With solar costs dropping to almost grid level or even lower for some states, hitherto laggardstates like Punjab have changed their views on renewable energy already. Punjab, which pays a premium for its thermal power due to distance from the source coal mines, is just one example. Other states like Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh have already made huge plans. Outliers remain states on the Eastern coal belt, notably Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand and Odisha. These states, with a combination of high population density, lack of ‘waste land’ at the scale utility scale projects demand, and low thermal power costs, have resisted the charms of renewable energy so far. But with a low industrial base and consumption, they simply have to shift future consumption growth to renewable energy to improve their own numbers, and provide a market for renewables. For that, they need to improve their state discom finances too. Even Andhra Pradesh, the state that sent shockwaves through the sector when a new state government sought to cancel/renegotiate signed contracts, has not gone off renewables. Instead, the new government has actually mapped out its ‘own’ new and bigger 10 GW plan, which, which is progressing, albeit slowly. Other states like Karnataka in the south have gone a little slow simply because they added on renewables much earlier, mush faster, leaving them saddled with higher costs. As those projects mature and fresh demand is created, expect these states to adapt much faster.Especially in areas like repowering old wind energy installations, for instance.

Infrastructure And technology When talking about infrastructure and technology, probably two areas come to mind for the former. Land availability and speed of upgrade and build-up of transmission infrastructure. Both have emerged as serious challenges, especially land, with ever increasing demands for large solar parks. While that might be one reason for the relative absense of renewable energy in the densely populated and fertile Eastern states of India, the land issue is now becoming a cause for concern in larger states too. Both Rajasthan and Gujarat, states

with massive solar plans have seen issues escalate around land acquisition in recent months, which need a better long term approach.

Chances are high that the massive solar parks planned, from 30 GW in Gujarat or the 7 GW plus in Ladakh, might be the earliest, and last of their kind. The future of renewables might lie in smaller 50-100 MW parks, where land acquisition is far easier. This looks even more promising if one looks at the government’s resolve to monetize land banks owned by its own ministries and arms more effectively.

Ministries like Railways are already focused on achieving ambitious solar targets like 3 GW on the back of its own and banks and buildings infrastructure. Technology will play its role, by allowing for consumption locally through regional grids, saving on transmission losses. Similarly, technology will be critical for something like the National Hydrogen Mission that has been declared in this years budget. The announcement couldn’t have come sooner, as further delays wold have risked India meeting the same fate as its solar manufacturing industry in Hydrogen too. Keep in mind that till 2011, India was actually a quality destination for solar exports to the world, before the Chinese wave of manufacturing and R&D buried overtook us. To be globally competitive, the country will need to grow homegrown technology and manufacturing innovations, otherwise no amount of duty protection will help. Hydrogen, or green hydrogen production in that sense, provides that opportunity again.

Dr. Paolo Frankl, Head, Renewable Energy Division, International Energy Agency in his presentation at REINVEST 2020 had stated that the future of RE in the long term this decade is very important and this depended on the right policies. He predicted in 2025 renewable will surpass coal and will become a first generation technology in the world. Besides storage, he stressed on the need for a wider technology portfolio for energy needs, be it optimized hydropower, offshore renewable and geothermal energy. Enhanced market and regulatory frameworks are critical to attract timely investment in grids and remunerate flexibility from dispatchable supply, storage and demandside response. Deeper commitments to emissions cuts would mean faster clean technology deployment and cost reductions, innovation for hydrogen and other low carbon fuels, battery storage and CCUS. He also emphasised the role of governments to attract affordable financing, accelerate the transition in building, industry and transport.

Thus, technology and building at scale in Storage, and the whole solar cycle, will be much needed, with the proviso to innovate and build our own standards that deliver the same output through an India way.

Summary The decade to 2030 has started with a nudge to the Renewable Energy sector to find its own feet. Be it financing, costs, or solving integration challenges, the industry will increasingly be expected to be proactive , rather than look to the government for solutions.

Demand growth, and a slowdown or complete stop on thermal expansion, along with retirement of old plants , offers renewable energy its best chance to expand its space. New areas like Hydrogen generation offer a technology led opportunity to invest in, and look for scale. A similar but tougher test awaits the sector in storage, where a strong case for battery storage especially is still not being made on cost considerations. The obsession with cost in fact is the best way to fall behind in the global race, and this is perhaps the one area where the government has to play a final hand, by creating an enabling environment for discoms and consumers alike, to allow a market to develop.

Saur news Bureau DEC EMB ER 20 20

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

25

|

F |I |N |A |N |C |E |N |E |W |S

|

Total Expands Sustainable Energy Alliance With Adani, Takes 20% Stake in AGEL

F

rench multinational energy company Total has announced that it has completed acquisition of a 20 percent minority interest in Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL), the renewable energy platform of the Adani Group. The French giant acquired the shares held by the Adani Promoter Group in Adani Green Energy Limited.

The transaction marks the deepening partnership between the Adani Group – India’s leading infrastructure platform and, Total – a global energy major in the transition and green energy fields, in India. The investment in AGEL is another step in the strategic alliance between the Adani Group and Total, across various businesses and companies of the Adani Group, covering investments in LNG terminals, gas utility business, and renewable assets across India. This is in-line with the commitment of both Adani and Total to be leading participants in the sustainable economy of the future and help India in its quest for development of renewable energy. In 2018, Total and Adani embarked on the energy partnership with investment by Total in Adani Gas Limited, city gas distribution business, associated LNG terminal business and gas marketing business. Total acquired 37.4 percent stake in Adani Gas Limited and 50 percent stake in Dhamra LNG project. During the development of this partnership, it was further agreed that Total and Adani shall continue this alliance into the wider sustainable energy space. Total and Adani agreed the acquisition of a 50 percent stake in a 2.35 GWac portfolio of operating solar assets owned by AGEL and a 20 percent stake in AGEL for a global investment of USD 2.5 Billion. The two energy majors have joined hands to develop green power sources at affordable prices and to deliver this transformational energy solution.

26

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

CDC Announces $30 Mn Green Lending Facility to Tata Cleantech Capital

C

DC Group, the UK’s development finance institution and impact investor, has announced a USD 30 million facility to Tata Cleantech Capital Limited (TCCL), through CDC’s directed green lending facility. This first of its kind facility will enable TCCL to offer loans to businesses across India that focus on e-mobility solutions as well as water and energy efficiency, to help mitigate the effects of climate change.

India is the world’s fourth-largest emitter of greenhouse gas emissions and is amongst the top ten water consuming countries in the world (World Resource Institute, 2017). CDC, through this facility aims to enhance efforts to avoid greenhouse gas emissions by increasing the deployment of energy efficiency and e-mobility solution. Additionally, this will also facilitate the reduction of freshwater consumption by funding water efficiency and wastewater treatment projects to reduce water stress. The objective is to support climate change mitigation in India.

Manish Chourasia, Managing Director, TCCL said “we are delighted to have CDC Group partner with TCCL in its journey to mobilise climate finance in India. TCCL will help develop the nascent cleantech sectors viz E-mobility, Energy Efficiency and Water Efficiency in India through CDC’s directed green lending facility.”

While India’s resource efficiency sector is in its nascent stage, the demand for resource efficiency services and products is increasing exponentially. CDC’s facility aims to address the financing barrier by directing lending to specific sub-sectors, incentivising the rapid deployment of capital at scale. The facility will further demonstrate the bankability of resource efficiency solutions to customers and investors alike, helping catalyse the growth of the market. CDC’s facility to TCCL contributes to the achievement of UN Sustainable Development Goals 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and 13 (Climate Action).

Loanpal Receives $800+ Million in First External Investment Round

L

oanpal, a leading point-of-sale payment platform for sustainable home solutions, has announced its first external investment round of more than USD 800 million led by NEA and WestCap Group, as well as Brookfield Asset Management, Riverstone Holdings and private investors. As part of the transaction, which closed in 2020, Scott Sandell, Managing General Partner at NEA, and Laurence Tosi, Managing Partner of WestCap Group, have joined the company’s board of directors.

“We are solving big world problems with industry-leading technology that makes it easier for everyone to live a more sustainable lifestyle,” said Hayes Barnard, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Loanpal.

“Everything on our platform is available as a convenient ‘buy now, pay later’ solution to help homeowners swiftly install smart home upgrades. The mission is to scale an easier deployment of carbon reducing

products that benefit the planet, while empowering more Americans to work in mission-driven jobs.”

The firms’ proprietary point-of-sale payment platform equips businesses with the fast and frictionless digital tools they need to deploy sustainable home solutions at scale. The technology removes cost barriers for homeowners by providing flexible payment options and creates an efficient channel for financial institutions to deploy their capital in high-performing environmental, social and governance (ESG) assets. It has provided approximately USD 5.8 billion of capital for solar and other home efficiency products since 2018, empowering more than 175,000 families to upgrade their homes with modern, sustainable technologies. The platform is accessed by more than 12,000 sales professionals, supporting more than 20,000 clean energy jobs across the United States.

|

F |I |N |A |N |C |E |U |P |D |A |T |E |S

|

PFC Closes Rs 5000 Crore Bonds Issue 11 Days Ahead of Schedule

T

he Power Finance Corporation’s (PFC) first Rs 5000 crore taxable non-convertible debentures (NCDs) issue was subscribed close to nine times on January 18, 2021, and closed for subscription 11 days ahead of the schedule, according to BSE data.

The state-owned financial institution working as the financial backbone of the Indian power sector has planned to raise Rs 10, 000 crore through bonds in two tranches.

The first tranche of Rs 5,000 crore, including Rs 4,500 crore green-shoe option, opened for subscription on January 15, 2021, and was scheduled to close on January 29, 2021. But the issue had to be closed on January 18, 2021, the second day

of trading, due to over-subscription on BSE. According to the BSE data, subscribers applied for 4,47,76,348 bonds or NCDs of Rs 1,000 each against 50 lakh bonds on the offer (with 4.5 crore NCDs under the greenshoe option) on the offer. Thus, the PFC received a subscription worth Rs 4,477.63

crore against Rs 500 crore base issue size of NCDs on offer (with a green-shoe option of Rs 4,500 crore).

The overwhelming response to the bond issue is expected to encourage the firm to come out with the second bond issue of Rs 5,000 crore during the current financial year, a source said.

Earlier, PFC Chairman R S Dhillon had told reporters that the issue would be allotted on a first-come-first-serve basis and in case of over-subscription, the allotment would be done proportionately.

Dhillon had also said the company would bring more such bond issues going forward.

About raising the entire Rs 10,000 crore during this fiscal itself, he had said it would be done based on response to the issue.

Sterlite Power Completes Merger of Subsidiary; Announces Annual Results

S

terlite Power, a leading global power transmission player, has announced the completion of the merger of its whollyowned subsidiary Sterlite Power Grid Ventures Ltd. with the parent entity. With this merger, the company further strengthened its position in the marketplace by integrating operations and streamlining the corporate structure. Post the merger, the firm also

announced the audited annual results for Financial Year 2020 recording “outstanding growth” in revenue and profit.

Key Financial Highlights • Consolidated Revenue up by 44% y-o-y at Rs 5,158 crore • Consolidated EBITDA up by 434% y-o-y at Rs 2,406 crore • Consolidated Profit After Tax up by 280% y-o-y at Rs 942 crore The firm also reiterated that it is increasingly focused on

integrating renewable energy (RE) to the grid and has been awarded vital projects connecting the national grid to clean and green energy. Adding that it has added several InterState Transmission System (ISTS) projects to its portfolio in FY20 including the LakadiaVadodara Transmission Project Ltd. (LVTPL) which is part of India’s Green Energy Corridor (GEC). The firm had also commissioned its first project JA N UA RY 20 21

in Brazil (Arcoverde) 28 months ahead of schedule, which was designed to evacuate renewable wind energy.

During the FY, the firm has realised additional liquidity of Rs 2450 crore from the monetisation of three projects in India (NRSS 29, OGPTL and ENICL) and three projects in Brazil (Pampa, Arcoverde and Nova Estado).

Pratik Agarwal, MD, Sterlite Power, said, “we are driven by our core purpose to enable access to reliable power while minimizing the impact on climate change. As the world makes rapid transition towards clean energy, and India targets 450 GW of renewable energy by 2030, we will contribute towards this noble cause by creating the required transmission infrastructure so that green energy can reach the most underserved households.”

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

27

|B |

U |D |G |E |T |R |E |A |C |T |I |O |N |S|

Budget 2021

Reactions.

Industry Welcomes Broad Direction, Hopes For Specifics

28

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

|B |

U |D |G |E |T |R |E |A |C |T |I |O |N |S|

JA N UA RY 20 21

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

29

|B |

U |D |G |E |T |R |E |A |C |T |I |O |N |S|

T

he Union Budget 2021, for all its usual detractors, has been welcomed in more ways than one. While the stock markets seem to have welcomed the bold moves to junk fiscal limitations and go for high spending to revive the economy, the industry has welcomed it for more reasons. One couldn’t help but notice during interactions that there was palpable relief that the finance minister did not go for the imposition of fresh taxes, or even tinker a lot with existing tax laws or slabs. This continuity in an extraordinary year, when the pressure to do the ‘populist’ thing was so high, has been welcomed. Add to that the higher spending promised, including the next batch of investments in state discoms, and you have more than one reason to be happy, despite the relative cold-shouldering of the renewable energy sector. Wind energy in fact barely found any mention at all.

A key industry body NSEFI welcomed the Discom reform package and National Hydrogen Mission announced. “NSEFI Chairman Pranav R Mehta said“ National Solar Energy Federation of India welcomes the announcement of over 3 lakh crore package for DISCOM reforms over the next 5 years announced in the budget by Hon. Finance Minister Shri Nirmala Sitharaman. “This is an important step at this juncture which will help accelerate the renewable energy installations in the country over the next 10 years.” Welcoming the National Hydrogen Mission, he added that “the timing couldn’t have been better for Green Hydrogen.

Today, in the global energy transition story Green Hydrogen is playing an important role and at NSEFI very soon we will be launching National Green Hydrogen Coalition as a private sector response to support government’s Hydrogen Mission”. Speaking on the increase of duties on

30

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

inverters and solar lanterns Mr. Mehta said “ Time has come for Indian manufacturers to become globally competitive and satisfy not only Indian market’s demand but also global supply-demand.

Today’s announcements will take us one step closer to this.”

SUMANT SINHA CMD, Renew Power

Sumant Sinha, CMD, ReNew Power, the largest private-sector generator in the renewable energy space, had this to say “It is a growth-oriented and forward-looking Budget. The Finance Minister’s focus on healthcare, infrastructure, power and the financial sector will have a positive, broad-based impact on the economy. By increasing capex spending significantly without hiking taxes, and instead focusing on expanding economic activity, the FM has set the groundwork for a sharp and sustained economic recovery over the next several years”.

Bikesh Ogra, Global CEO and Director, Sterling and Wilson Solar Limited, which has the broadest global footprint among Indian firms in the solar EPC sector, said that “The Union Budget 2021 looks promising for the overall growth and revival of the economy which has been impacted due to the pandemic that the entire world witnessed last year.

Capital infusion of Rs 1,000 crores to Solar Energy Corporation of India and Rs 1,500 crores to Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency will give a further boost to the non-conventional energy sector. Investing in the infrastructure sector, decreasing regulatory restraint, strengthening the regulations, executing digitization in several segments should act as mechanisms in enhancing India’s rank to improve the process of doing business. Notification on phased manufacturing plan for solar cells and solar panels will help in supporting Atmanirbhar Bharat and ramping up domestic capacity. Also, the proposed hike in the duty on solar inverters from 5% to 20% is going to boost domestic production which will further push the Government’s thrust on Atmanirbhar Bharat.

BHARAT BHUT Co-Founder and Director, Goldi Solar

In the distribution sphere, Sanjay Banga, President Transmission & Distribution, Tata Power, said that “Tata Power welcomes the step announced today for the distribution sector reforms as most of the Discoms are reeling under huge losses, and finding it difficult to provide the uninterrupted power supply. We also welcome the scheduled discussion on the Electricity Amendment Act 2021 during the ongoing budget session as when implemented in its true letter and spirit, the Act will provide the much-needed independence to the regulatory mechanism for effective and timely decision making. It will also pave the way for speedier implementation of the National Tariff Policy, a must for the tariff rationalisation across all segments of consumers.

|B |

U |D |G |E |T |R |E |A |C |T |I |O |N |S|

This is very crucial for overall industrial development for realization of Atmanirbhar Bharat. Besides the above, for the revival of the power sector the Government should use announced funds to provide transitional support to state governments who want to initiate distribution reforms by involving private sector players” Expectedly, Bharat Bhut, Co-founder & Director, Goldi Solar, a leading manufacturer in West India had a view on the customs duty too, a long pending demand of domestic manufacturers. “While healthcare, infrastructure and development of human capital remained the main focus of Budget 2021, FM Sitharaman made a few significant announcements for the RE sector.

S N GOEL Chairman, IEX Limited

We appreciate the government’s attempt to boost the RE sector, Rs 2,500 crore has been allocated to Solar Energy Corporation and Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency.

We are happy to see that there will be an increase in duties on imported solar inverters and solar lanterns. On the flip side, it is disappointing to note that there is no mention of Basic Customs Duty on solar panels – a longstanding appeal from the industry – whose implementation is pending since the last budget. Given that the safeguard duty ends in July, it leaves the solar developers a large window of opportunity to import and stock modules from outside India, resulting in a huge blow to domestic solar manufacturers.”

S N Goel, Chairman, Indian Energy Exchange Limited, which recently started trading in renewable energy separately, was also optimistic post the budget.

“A very heartening set of announcements by the Hon’ble Finance Minister to re-energise the country’s economy as well as building a sustainable energy sector. The proposed Rs 3 trillion distribution reform package to promote competition, consumer choice and increase penetration of automation and technology will go a long way in restoring financial viability and infusing greater efficiency in the sector. The power markets have a huge role to play here. Further, the announcement regarding creating an Independent System Operator to provide non-discriminatory open access to the national gas pipeline network will help to foster the development of the gas markets. While the fine print and details of the budget are awaited, the announcements are forward-looking & if implemented in true earnest can potentially transform the energy sector.”

Along the same lines, Prabhajit Kumar Sarkar, MD & CEO – Power Exchange India Limited (PXIL) said “The Union Budget for 2021-22 presented by

the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today, has given a big push to the power sector by announcing close to Rs 3.06 lakh crore power distribution sector scheme. We welcome this move as it is expected to assist discoms for infrastructure creation tied to financial improvements, including prepaid smart metering, feeder separation and upgradation of systems. Additionally, the government’s proposed framework to give consumers more than one discom choice was a much-needed move. It will help to enhance efficiency in the power distribution sector, induce fair competition and address the monopoly business of discoms. Besides, we foresee that reforms such as Rs 1,500 crore allocation for the renewable energy sector, 100 percent railway electrification & expansion of metro rail networks and hydrogen energy mission for generating hydrogen out of green-powered sources will contribute significantly in enhancing the country’s power demand. PXIL, as a national power market infrastructure institution, welcomes the budget announcement and is ready to provide an efficient platform for an enhanced volume of trading and efficient electricity price discovery in the country.”

Animesh Damani, Managing Partner, Artha Energy Resources said “The FY 2021-22 budget has left the non-utility solar players to fend for themselves. Adding to the misery is the capped net metering of 10KW, which is likely to impact 70% of the rooftop solar business, the Government’s stance to raise import duties on solar inverters will further discourage potential investment in the solar development segment, and adversely affect employment. Similarly, the allocation of Rs 2500 crore fund to SECI and REDA (cumulatively), is a play on optics and is yet again, not likely to benefit the private players. Moreover, the silence of the authorities on the GST front has now become a matter of concern, which if introduced, had the potential to generate revenue for the Government, and aide private players alike.

The only silver lining in the budget is the Government taking note of the Hydrogen Energy sector and we hope for it to have a serious outlay.

This in-turn is likely to prompt Indian players in the sector to take the lead globally.”

ANIMESH DAMANI Managing Partner, Artha Energy Resources

Ratul Puri, Chairman, Hindustan Power also believed that the moves that were announced were both consumer and investor-friendly “The thrust of the Budget is on reviving the economy. It is positive and refreshing in its scope and scale. All the announcements are forward-looking and will put India back on the growth trajectory. The announcement of Rs 3.05 trillion packages for discoms is encouraging and will reform the ailing power distribution sector.”

JA N UA RY 20 21

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

31

|

F |E |A |T |U |R |E|

Solis Makes A Point, With 1 GW Milestone In India

J

an 29th- Ginlong (Solis) Technologies, the Ningbo, China headquartered inverter firm released its 2020 estimated annual financial report on January 22: the annual sales is expected to up to 3,40 million USD dollars, the highest growth than the same period last year of 93%.

Ginlong (Solis) Technologies entered India in 2015, and has underlined its strong focus here by crossing the 1 GW milestone in India. The milestone, coming just over 5 years since the firm entered the market, is notable for not just the steady year on year increase, but the acceptance the firm has managed in India. A place in the top 3 inverter suppliers to the Indian solar market.

As an established name embraced across utility, C&I and other segments, the firm’s wide range has had success in a tough value

32

driven market like India mainly due to the long term view the firm took for this market. Unlike many other firms entering the market around the same time, Solis has actually focused on delivering the kind of service and warranties top inverter firms promise. Thus, from a call centre in Mumbai to a technical service network available online as well as at short notice across the country, Solis as a firm has managed to convince Indian buyers that it is delivering real value for money. 5 years on, a very low failure rate coupled with higher visibility across quality projects has helped build the trust factor further.

The Solis brand, which is the one used by the firm for global sales outside China, has been built on the back of a high focus on quality. From being the Second Inverter manufacturer to get BIS listing for maximum ratings in India, Solis was also

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

the first inverter manufacturer to pass PVEL (former part of DNV-GL) inverter reliability testing. The firm claims that 100% of inverters produced are durationtested before shipment to reduce failures during installation . Topping it all off is the claim to winning the EUPD research top brand award for 5 consecutive years . The firm currently has BIS certification in place for its inverters in the 700K to 80K range.

All of which has made the firm a top 3 ‘Most bankable Asia brand’ by Bloomberg NEF too. Solis has plans to build on its strong legacy of trust worldwide, thanks to the massive capacity expansion it hopes to complete in 2021, wherein manufacturing capacity will go from 5 GW to 20 GW. Speaking about the future, the firm’s management believes that in line with global trends, Solis will also be served best by focusing on the energy

storage market , where installed capacity of new energy storage is expected to peak at 30 GW per annum from 2030 onwards, That means an energy storage all-in-one inverter, off-grid energy storage inverter, will be next on the agenda. The firm plans to launch its off-grid energy storage inverter for the Indian market this year.

It’s wide experience in the C&I segment especially, where it has been used in projects from schools to gas stations, farms and office buildings will certainly give it an advantage building the next generation of products for this market.

Having a technically qualified founder familiar with the risks and opportunities in the sector has helped Solis make the most of its opportunities. By 2020 end, the firm had prepared for the next phase of solar growth by getting a stock exchange listing in March 2019, as well as

a zero debt status , giving it ample options to fund future growth. A strong R&D focus has helped keep it on the cutting edge of innovations, and R&D investment increased by more than 100% year on year in the first three quarters of 2020, and have a faster go to market record, ensuring customer loyalty is rewarded with low wait times.

Regular third party validations have helped no doubt, be it on lifespan projections, or failure rates of under 0.2 percent, both from DNV•GL. Solis is a genuine multinational firm today, with a global brand respected across markets.

Solis cherishes the relationship with all India customers. Thank you so much for all your support and understanding as usual.We will make every effort to ensure better service to all of our valuable customers.

About Ginlong Technologies Established in 2005, Ginlong Technologies (Stock Code: 300763.SZ) is one of the most experienced and largest manufacturers of PV string inverters. Presented under the Solis brand, the company’s portfolio uses innovative string inverter technology to deliver first-class reliability that has been validated under the most stringent international certifications. Armed with a global supply chain, world-class R&D and manufacturing capabilities, Ginlong optimizes its Solis inverters for each regional market, servicing and supporting its customers with its team of local experts. For more information on how cost-effective Solis delivers value while maximizing reliability for residential, commercial, and utility customers, go to solisinverters.com.

DEC EMB ER 20 20

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

33

|

C |O |U |N |T |E |R |V |I |E |W

|

The Future of Swappable Batteries in the

Electric Vehicles Sector

Amit Gupta CEO and Co-founder | YULU

Rapid urbanisation has fuelled the need for mobility, producing increased demand for automobiles. Although it is a sign of progress, poor air quality and the growing reliance on crude oil have increased the load on our environment.

Electric mobility is now being seriously regarded as an alternative to countering the harmful effects of fossil fuels as Electric Vehicles (EVs) are quickly becoming the better way to provide convenient and cost-effective mobility to the people, whether it's inter-city or intra-city. And in that sector of e-mobility, countries are now starting to switch their strategies to promoting EVs with swappable batteries to reduce the carbon emission and the impact of climate change over time.

34

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

The importance of swappable batteries and fast charging The paradigm shift in the world to reduce carbon emissions was the primary reason for the Indian government launching the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles (FAME) India Scheme in 2015. This scheme from the Department of Heavy Industry (DHI) aims to bring in the accelerated adoption of all kinds of vehicles in the EV sector while phasing out Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles.

A roll on effect of that has seen India agree to a 33-35 percent reduction in carbon intensity by 2030. However, currently, only one percent of all vehicles sold in the country are electric vehicles.

The estimated figure of EVs sold in India is 1.56 lakh for the year ending in March 2020, mostly containing two- and threewheelers, followed by cars and buses. And the Government of India is now planning to delink the battery from electric vehicles to promote swappable batteries soon, as it attempts to recharge the EV segment.

The growth in EVs over the last year has been a strong 20 percent because the petrol, diesel and CNG for ICE vehicles are

|

C |O |U |N |T |E |R |V |I |E |W

getting more and more costly due to the variables of demand and supply chain becoming ever disruptive. India has also gone for a ‘green tax’ effectively on petrol and diesel particularly, that has put a floor on any significant drop in prices.

India thus needs to use this opportunity to adopt EVs at the earliest with the best technology and swappable battery charging stations.

Unlike battery charging stations, the physical footprint of battery swapping is considerably smaller as it's just a collection of small battery storage compartments. As most of the batteries are in the 7-15 kg range for two or three-wheelers, less physical space is needed. It makes it easy to deliver.

Thus there are infinite options for battery swapping stations: a restaurant, an ATM, a gym or even a kirana store.

Moreover, the best aspect of the battery swapping infrastructure is that local power distribution firms do not need any investment. It can depend on a low current, too, as it takes just 5 mins to charge the battery. The customer gets an opportunity to swap the battery and charge the battery, which can be done just as easily as charging a mobile phone. Also, the swappable batteries provided by EV sellers separate from the electric vehicles or by energy operators can become a massive service model in times to come.

The micro-distribution possibilities for swapping are thus extremely appealing. The ability to self-serve conveniently is a crucial feature of battery swapping stations. The pay-per-use service is projected to hold the largest share in the Indian EV battery swap based on service type, in order to gain a competitive advantage over other players in the Indian EV battery swapping industry, the businesses concentrate on providing goods and services and work together with other market leaders to extend their scope.

Partnerships with car makers, battery manufacturers and service suppliers to introduce battery swapping technology at a faster pace.

Also, the swappable batteries provided by EV sellers separate from the electric vehicles or by energy operators can become a massive service model in times to come.

Improvements in Battery Quality for the EV Sector The rapid advancement in battery technology has been a prime reason for high energy density, faster charging,

|

minimum degradation during charging and more battery life efficiency. Further, research and development processes to produce motors with top-quality and optimum reliability for improved battery chemistry have lowered the cost and improved the performance of EVs. Hence, the trend of swappable batteries in electric vehicles has been growing faster ever since the EV battery swapping market emerged.

As the battery gets separated from the EVs, there is no need for the owners to spend their money on it while avoiding high upfront costs. Instead, they can either buy the swappable battery from EV sellers separately or sign up with an energy operator to take a swappable battery on lease for their electric vehicles.

These energy operators will provide a charged swappable battery when the owner needs a replacement for a depleted one upon reaching the swapping stations at their convenience. With this arrangement , the cost of EVs comes down to the levels of ICE vehicles hence enabling high demand and more sales for electric vehicles with

swappable batteries in the markets all over the world. India must focus more on bringing in electric vehicles with swappable batteries for 2Ws and three-wheelers (3Ws), especially when the advantages of the total cost of ownership of four-wheelers (4Ws) are years away.

Takeaway The EV battery-swapping market is growing at a steady pace because of the prevalent variables associated with the markets. But with more countries making their economies less reliant on fossil fuel, the growth of swappable batteries for electric vehicles is set to increase rapidly as per many projections.

India wants EV swappable batteries as part of its Make in India initiative with its cell efficiency, performance parameters and life cycle predefined. With the NITI Aayog working on establishing the giga-factories to increase battery production, the future of swappable batteries in the EV sector looks very bright.

JA N UA RY 20 21

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

35

|

G |R |I |D |A |N |D |T |R |A |N |S |M |I |S|S |I |O |N|

EPTA Seeking Resolution of RoW for RE Evacuation Projects in Gujarat

T

he Government of India has set a target for establishing 175 GW renewable capacity in the country by 2022 which includes 100 GW of solar and 60 GW of wind generation capacities. In the state of Gujarat, the renewable energy target assessment takes into consideration a wind potential of about 6 GW in Bhuj complex, 2 GW in Lakadia and 1.5 GW in Dwarka. For the integration and evacuation of power from these generation projects in the above areas, a high capacity of 765 kV and 400 kV transmission system interconnecting Bhuj, Lakadia, Banaskantha, Vadodara & Dwarka along with establishment of 765/400/220 kV new substations at Bhuj-II & Lakadia and 400/220kV new substation at Jam Khambhaliya (Dwarka) have been planned.

And now, the Electric Power Transmission Association (EPTA) wants timely government intervention for securing RoW (Right of Way) resolution so that the

projects, which have already been delayed by the pandemic, can resume development at the earliest to try and abide by their strict deadlines.

It stated that the inter-state transmission schemes have been awarded by the Ministry of Power, GOI under the Tariff Based Competitive Bidding (TBCB) framework and are under various stages of development in the State of Gujarat. It is, therefore, imperative to facilitate uninterrupted construction of transmission

projects in Gujarat to enable smooth and timely evacuation of RE power. The transmission projects have been awarded with aggressive commissioning timelines of 18 months to ensure that the transmission evacuation system is in place by the time renewable energy projects awarded by SECI/ MNRE are commissioned by December 2022.

Sharing his views on the above concern Vijay Chhibber, Director General, Electric Power Transmission Association (EPTA), said, “The construction and commissioning of transmission projects worth more than Rs 5000 crore is likely to get delayed due to ROW issues. These GOI awarded projects of national importance, are critical for achieving India’s RE goals and thus efforts need to be made to fast-track their execution. In absence of proactive administrative support, the execution of these projects with such aggressive timelines will be a challenge.”

EESL, NIIF JV ‘Intellismart’ to Develop Digital Platform for Distribution Sector

I

ntelliSmart Infrastructure Private Limited, a JV of Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) and National Investment & Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) has committed to developing a digital platform for value added services in the

36

distribution and power sector.

The firm has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Infosys Limited to develop a “Sustainable Energy Digital Platform (SEDP)” to accelerate digitalisation and integrate data

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

analytics across the power sector enabling greater efficiency. The platform will help unfold data analytics and integrate one common platform for the utility operations and commercial systems end-to-end.

The MoU was signed at the ‘Realizing the Vision of Digital Smart Grid in India’ roundtable hosted by IntelliSmart on January 15, 2021, attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Power, Department of Economic Affairs, and expert delegates from across India’s energy ecosystem.

The JV has also launched the inaugural edition of INSTINCT, an Innovation Challenge and Hackathon on Smart Metering.

INSTINCT invites ideas to solve

relevant challenges that can help improve India’s power distribution sector.

The JV will partner with Discoms to co-develop advanced analytics solutions on their data, tailored to their context. “With our knowledge of existing smart meter infrastructure/ data, rich on-ground experience and partnerships with leading global firms (who have helped global Discoms create value), we are confident of being able to create significant value.

IntelliSmart will reach out to Disscoms and work with them to demonstrate the value of Advanced Analytics to them and build out a full suite of tailored solutions over the next 2-3 years,” the firm stated.

|

M |I |L |E |S |T |O |N |E|

Pepsico Sets new Goal to cut Carbon Emissions

by More Than 40% by 2030

I

n the face of an escalating climate crisis, Pepsico has unveiled an ambitious new goal to cut carbon emissions by more than 40 percent by 2030 (against a 2015 baseline) — more than doubling the previous climate objective. This is expected to result in the reduction of over 26 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions — the equivalent of taking five million-plus cars off the road for a full year.

“The severe impacts from climate change are worsening, and we must accelerate the

urgent systemic changes needed to address it,” said PepsiCo Chairman and CEO Ramon Laguarta. Moving up the company’s timeline is crucial, considering the dire consequences of waiting. “There is simply no other option but immediate and aggressive action,” Laguarta added.

The company’s goal is to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040, one full decade earlier than called for in the Paris Agreement.

“It’s long overdue that companies move beyond just minimizing their

environmental impact,” says Jim Andrew, PepsiCo Chief Sustainability Officer. “They must actively work to improve and regenerate the planet.”

The firm is advancing zero and nearzero emission technologies, utilising electric and natural gas power in warehousing, transportation and distribution facilities, which is modeled after the electric fleet and solar-powered buildings at the Frito-Lay North America site in Modesto, CA. In 2020, PepsiCo achieved its goal to source 100 percent renewable electricity for its operations in the US. More than 400 solar panels help power the Quaker plant in Rotterdam, Netherlands.

Installation of a single windmill at the Tropicana plant in Zeebrugge, Belgium will generate approximately 40 percent of that site’s total electricity consumption. Wind projects in Texas and Nebraska break ground this year, and by the end of 2021, 15 countries in PepsiCo’s direct operations will be fully sourcing renewable electricity.

SolarArise Commissions 75 mw Project in Uttar Pradesh

T

homasLloyd, an investor in Gurugram based SolarArise announced that SolarArise India Projects has commissioned a 75 Megawatt (MW) solar PV plant in Khera village, Budaun District, Uttar Pradesh. Jakson Limited was given the mandate to build by SolarArise.

The firm was founded in 2014 by James Abraham, Anil Nayar and Tanya Singhal backed by GEEREF, CIIF and ThomasLloyd Group.

In 2018, ThomasLloyd, an emerging markets specialist, invested in Delhi-registered SolarArise alongside the Global Energy Efficiency and Renewable

Energy Fund (GEEREF), advised by the European Investment Bank Group, and Kotak Mahindra managed Core Infrastructure India Fund (CIIF).

The new solar plant operates under Talettutayi Solar Projects Five Private Limited has a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with the state government Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL). The plant is expected to generate approximately 120 million kilowatt-hours per year of clean energy in Uttar Pradesh.

Commenting on this new development, Nandita Sahgal Tully, Managing Director Infrastructure Asset

Management at ThomasLloyd said: “We are delighted that our partnership with SolarArise continues to grow and are pleased to have made significant progress through the successful commissioning of this new site against the challenging backdrop triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a major achievement by the entire team at SolarArise and we commend them for their efforts.”

SolarArise’s current portfolio of 384 MW (DC) comprises of six operational plants, across four states in India with a total capacity of 234 MW. The capacity for an additional 150 MW is already funded. All plants benefit

JA N UA RY 20 21

from long-term power purchase agreements with either central government or state counterparties.

SolarArise Founder and Director, Anil Nayar, said “Our experienced teams worked closely with our contractors, allowing us to deliver this project ahead of schedule, despite the operating challenges we faced from the global COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout this time we worked diligently ensuring the health and well-being of our employees. Renewable energy is needed now more than ever, as communities across India are realising the importance of a clean climate.”

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

37

|

M |I |L |E |S |T |O |N |E|

MP Leads In Solar Pumps Under GKRA Scheme

M

adhya Pradesh has set up the highest number of solar pumps in the country under the PM Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyan, state New and Renewable Energy Minister Hardeep Singh Dang has said.

“A total of 3,224 solar pumps were set up against the target of 3,490 in 24 districts of

the state to achieve 92.4 percent success under the scheme, which is maximum in the country,” an official release quoting Dang stated.

The scheme was launched by the central government last year for providing employment to migrant labourers who came back to their native places during the

COVID-19 lockdown. Under it, migrant labourers in 116 districts of six states Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha and Jharkhand – were identified for providing them employment. In MP, 24 districts were included in the scheme, under which setting up of solar pumps, construction of community toilets, anganwadis, wells, rural mandis, domestic animal sheds, panchayat buildings and tree plantation activities were taken up for providing jobs to migrant labourers, Dang said. Recently, Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) had issued a tender for the supply and commissioning of off-grid solar PV water pumping systems of 1-10 hp in selected states on a pan India basis under the component B of the PM KUSUM scheme.

The tender consists of a total of 16 clusters across India in which the solar pumps are to be installed. The last date for bid submission is February 2, 2021.

Amplus Launches ‘The MILES Challenge’ for Clean Energy Startups in India

A

mplus Solar, a leading distributed energy company headquartered in Gurugram, has announced the launch of The MILES (M+ Innovation Lab for Energy and Sustainability) Challenge for start-ups with ready to deploy solutions in the Clean Energy ecosystem in India.

Launched in association with GoMassive Earth Network, an angel investor forum focused on sustainability, The MILES Challenge will provide participants mentorship as well as access to resources in the Energy Industry. Amplus has committed to support the winners of The MILES Challenge through seed capital that will help them scale up.

“Amplus began as a start-up with an idea in the area of distributed solar. One of the

38

reasons behind our success was the support we received from mentors and investors who believed in us. With the MILES Challenge, we wish to help other Indian start-ups in the clean energy space achieve their potential”, said Sanjeev Aggarwal, Managing Director and CEO, Amplus Solar.

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

The Focus Areas of The MILES Challenge are: 1. Distributed Solar – for Residential and Commercial & Industrial Consumers. Any idea/solution that helps to fasten the pace of adoption and/ or adds economic and process efficiencies in the design, construction and maintenance

of distributed solar plants.

2. IoT Applications in Energy Sensing and analysing data has significant, but not yet fully commercialised, use-cases in the energy industry. Any idea/ solution that builds on the IoT stack to enable such unlocking is sought here.

3. Battery Storage – Given the infirm nature of renewable power sources, storage technologies are needed to increase adoption further. We are looking at solutions in the domain of storage integration with renewables that can be commercialised.

4. Electric Mobility – Any idea/ solution which has a focus on adding value to the EV mobility space – can be IoT applications, battery integrations, financial inclusion models, etc.

|

M |I |L |E |S |T |O |N |E|

ENGIE NA Added Nearly 2 GW of Renewable Energy in the US in 2020

E

NGIE North America has announced that it added nearly 2 GW of renewable energy in the US in 2020, as part of its commitment to deliver 9 GW of renewable energy capacity globally between 2019 and 2021. These new clean energy capacities will offset nearly 2.1 million metric tons of carbon and bring the firm’s renewables capacity to more than 3 GW in North America – enough to power 1.3 million homes. The six grid-scale wind projects and two grid-scale solar projects contributed to the company’s record pace of renewable energy development and construction.

These projects are located in Texas, Kansas, South Dakota and Oklahoma.

With the completion of these projects, adding 1.4 GW of wind and 0.4 GW of solar, and other projects in the US and Canada, ENGIE now has more than 3 GW of renewable generation capacity in North America developed over the past two years. “This was a historic year of construction for ENGIE North America,” said Gwenaëlle Avice-Huet, CEO of ENGIE North America. “The rapid growth of our renewable energy footprint in the United States demonstrates ENGIE’s commitment to achieving a carbon-neutral future. With more than 10 GW of additional renewable energy projects currently underway in North America, we are just getting started in delivering on our mission to connect society and companies to clean, affordable, innovative, and resilient energy generation and the infrastructure to support it.” Globally in 2020, the firm commissioned 3 GW of new renewable capacity, bringing its total portfolio to 31 GW of gross renewable energy capacity – consisting of hydroelectric (~57 percent) as well as wind and solar (~43 percent). Renewables account for 30 percent of the group’s gross power generation capacity worldwide (101 GW).

Tata Motors Bags 3 Awards at National Energy Conservation Award 2020

T

ata Motors has announced that it has bagged the prestigious National Energy Conservation Award (NECA) 2020 for its energy conservation measures, instituted by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE).

The company’s Jamshedpur, Lucknow and Pantnagar plants won ‘First Prize’, ‘Second Prize’ and ‘Merit Award’, respectively, in the category of Automotive (Manufacturing) Sector, at an event held virtually. The award ceremony took place in the presence of Raj Kumar Singh, Minister of State (Power, New & Renewable Energy). Ajoy Lall, Vice President – Operations, Commercial Vehicle Business Unit, Tata Motors said, “At Tata Motors, we are extremely delighted to have received this award from Bureau of Energy Efficiency. We have consciously engrained sustainability in every aspect of our business by stretching ourselves to adopt more meaningful ways to reduce our impact on the planet, while still delivering exciting products and sustainable solutions

to our customers. We have always been conscious of the need to conserve energy in our Manufacturing Plants – which leads to – Increased energy efficiency & reduced carbon emissions, which are further supported by utilisation of higher levels renewable energy. These awards reflects the ongoing efforts of all Tata Motors employees to make our facilities greener and more energy-efficient.”

Recently, Tata Motors Plants also received national awards for excellence in energy management at the CII’s Energy Efficiency Conference and Exposition in August 2020.

Awards included “National Energy Award 2020” and “Excellent Energy Efficient Unit.” In December 2020, the firm had announced that its flagship electric vehicle, the Nexon EV, had surpassed the 2000 sales milestone. The firm stated that in over 10 months, since launch, the sales of the Nexon EV reached 2200 units as of November 2020, indicating the rapid demand for the EVs in the personal car segment.

AGEL Commissions 150 MW Solar Plant at Kutchh, Ahead of Schedule

A

dani Solar Energy Kutchh One Limited, a step-down subsidiary of Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL) has commissioned a 150 MWac solar power plant in Kutchh, Gujarat.

Despite all the challenges of global pandemic COVID-19, unprecedented rain and flood in Kutchh, Gujarat, continuing with the Group’s commitment to nation building, the team of experts made it possible to commission the project 3 months prior to its scheduled commissioning date.

This plant has a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited (GUVNL) at Rs 2.67/kWh for a period of 25 years.

The plant will be connected to the firms’ state-of-the-art Energy Network Operation Centre (ENOC) that continuously monitors and analyses the performance of 80+ solar and wind plants across diverse locations in India. With the commissioning of this project, AGEL’s total operational renewable

capacity grows to 3,125 MW, with its total renewable capacity at 14,795 MW including 11,670 MW projects awarded and under implementation.

Vineet S. Jaain, MD & CEO, Adani Green Energy Ltd said, “This is the third solar plant commissioned by AGEL over a span of less than a month. The trend demonstrates our sharp focus on timely project delivery and our long-term vision to achieve the renewable capacity of 25 GW by 2025. It also reinforces AGEL’s commitment to lead India’s transition towards a greener future through a strategic approach and operational excellence.”

Gujarat contributes to nearly 13 percent of the renewable energy production in India.

The state with a generation capacity of 30 GW presents tremendous opportunities of growth in the renewable energy sector.

Capitalising on these opportunities AGEL has commissioned 635 MW renewable energy projects in Gujarat, while projects of 4,730 MW are under implementation.

JA N UA RY 20 21

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

39

|

R |E |P |O |R |T |S|

Solar now the Cheapest Source of new Power in Many Markets: WoodMac

T

he cost of solar power has dropped 90 percent over the last two decades, and will likely fall another 15 percent to 25 percent in the decade to come. And according to a new report by Wood Mackenzie, by 2030, solar will become the cheapest source of new power in every US state, plus Canada, China, and 14

other nations. The report ‘Total Eclipse: How Falling Costs will Secure Solar’s Dominance in Power’ calls for the solar power industry “highly investible” due to its growing ability to meet both economic and policy goals.

Wood Mackenzie research director Ravi Manghani said “as the world strives to recover from the economic slump

caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and simultaneously meet the climate and environmental goals of the Paris Agreement, solar is uniquely placed to advance efforts towards a low-carbon, sustainable future.”

The report adds that solar is already the cheapest form of new electricity generation in 16

US states, plus Spain, Italy and India. Even with the pandemic raging, global installations exceeded 115 gigawatts (GW) in 2020, compared to 1.5 GW in 2006.

While the growth of solar to this scale was driven partially by government subsidies and environmental goals, solar generation is now attractive based on price alone.

“Solar is becoming so competitive that not only is it a means of decarbonisation for corporate buyers, but also a way to lower the cost of energy for their businesses,” Manghani added. It further adds that operating costs are expected to drop as well over the next decade. Technologies that are already widely in use by the wind power industry, such as using drones and thermal imaging for inspections, will make operations more efficient, as will developing technologies such as artificial intelligence.

Pandemic Wiped out 429,000 Clean Energy Jobs in USA in 2020: Report

D

ue to the hard-hitting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the clean energy industry finished 2020 with its fewest number of workers since 2015. It also marked the first year clean energy saw a decline in jobs compared to the previous year. About 16,900 jobs were added in December by US clean energy businesses, leaving more than 429,000 (12 percent of the sector’s pre-COVID-19 workforce) still unemployed, according to the latest analysis of federal unemployment filings prepared for E2 (Environmental Entrepreneurs), E4TheFuture and the

40

American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) by BW Research Partnership.

According to the monthly report, ten months after the nationwide unemployment crisis began, 70 percent of the jobs lost in the clean energy sector have yet to be recovered. At the rate of recovery since June, it would take about two and a half years for the clean energy sector to reach pre-COVID employment levels. It would take an additional year to reach the levels of clean energy employment that had been projected for 2020 before the pandemic struck. Impacts of the pandemic-fueled

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

job crisis continue to disproportionately impact women and Black and Hispanic workers. Women—particularly women of colour—and Hispanic workers lost jobs overall in December despite total clean energy employment growing slightly, at a rate of 0.6 percent.

The report further added that no clean energy employment sector grew by more than 0.7 percent in December. Energy efficiency saw the strongest employment growth, adding 12,300 jobs. It was followed by renewable energy (2,700) and clean transmission, distribution and storage (750).

JA N UA RY 20 21

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

41

|

R |E |P |O |R |T |S|

RE Plus Storage is Cost Competitive With new Coal Plants in Tamil Nadu: Report

A

new economic viability analysis reveals that renewable energy (RE) along with battery storage in Tamil Nadu is cost competitive with new coal power plants. The report finds the levelised cost of energy (LCOE) for a hypothetical hybrid renewable battery storage system for the state to be Rs 4.97/kWh in 2021, which falls to Rs 3.4/kWh by 2030. In comparison, cost of electricity produced

from new coal power plants in Tamil Nadu is between Rs 4.5 – 6/kWh. The hybrid system is designed to cater to 1 GW of solar and wind capacity in 2021 with 2 hours of battery backup, which increases step wise to a 4-hour backup by 2030.

The research, by Climate Trends and JMK Research, further highlighted that lithiumion battery storage systems could also help reduce curtailment of renewable energy.

Close to 50 percent of solar power in Tamil Nadu was curtailed since the lockdown in March 2020. Similarly, its curtailment of wind power in 2019 went up to 3.52 hours per day from 1.87 hours per day in 2018.

As per the analysis, the cost of hybrid renewable battery storage system is at parity with new coal power plants in Tamil Nadu. Moreover, in 10 years time, incremental capacity addition would further drive down the cost by over 31 percent.

The analysis, tracks the the system from an initial capacity of 800 MW of solar and 200 MW of wind along with 500 MWh of storage, that would cater to Tami Nadu’s average annual power demand for 2 hours per day from 2021 – 2023. Its capacity is augmented to 3 hours of daily backup for 2024-2026, and then 4 hours per day for 2027-2030. In the last year, the hybrid system would meet 29 percent of Tamil Nadu’s average annual power demand at a competitive LCOE of Rs 3.4/kWh.

New Policies Aid 25-fold Jump in Rooftop Solar Installations in Vietnam: IEEFA

A

new research note from IEEFA details that as of December 31, 2020, the closing date for eligibility to the second solar feed-in-tariff program, a total of 9.3 gigawatts peak (GWp) (or 7.4 GW) of rooftop solar capacity had been connected to the national power system of Vietnam, as per the state utility Electricity of Vietnam (EVN). Meaning that there are now over 101,000 rooftop solar systems deployed over residential, commercial and industrial premises across the country.

These figures beat even the wildest expectations. Marking a 25-fold increase in installed capacity compared to just a year earlier, the massive escalation is

42

the result of an April 2020 policy decision that awarded rooftop solar projects a feed-intariff of 0.084 US cent per kilowatt-hour over a 20-year period. With the aim of

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

incentivising distributed generation assets that don’t require additional land resources or transmission lines, the tariff was markedly higher than those granted for floating or ground-

mounted solar farms, at 0.077 and 0.071USc per kWh, respectively. However, this is not the first time the local renewable energy industry has proven the skeptics wrong.

Vietnam made an impressive debut onto the regional sustainable energy landscape in 2019 when it delivered 4.5 GW of utility-scale solar power capacity in less than two years. Today, at 16.5 GW, solar power has penetrated a quarter of the national power system, according to EVN. Similarly, a considerable part of the wind power pipeline, which currently stands at 11.8 GW with a further 6.6 GW likely to be confirmed soon, is expected to be delivered by the end of 2021.

|

R |E |P |O |R |T |S|

European Renewable PPA Market Could Exceed 10 GW in 2021: Report

T

he European renewable energy power purchase agreement (PPA) market is likely to exceed 10 GW in 2021, due to continued momentum in Spain, the emergence of a strong subsidyfree market in Germany and growing offshore wind momentum throughout Europe. This is according to a market outlook released by Pexapark.

As per the report, this predicted boom in PPAs comes off a strong year for the renewable energy markets throughout Europe, with nearly 9 GW of deals signed in 2020 despite an increase in price volatility due to COVID-19. According to the data, Spain led the market due to favourable prices, with 3.4 GW of renewable energy PPAs signed in the region over the past

year. A record volume of corporate PPA deals was also signed in 2020 by a sell-side dominated by 30 companies, including Iberdrola, BP Lightsource, RWE, Orsted and WPD. Based on Pexapark’s price data and insight into ongoing deal activity, a number of trends are expected for PPAs signed across European markets in 2021.

Spain dominated deals in 2020 and if current deal activity continues, is set to be a leading market in terms of volume in the coming year. However, it will likely be challenged by the nascent German PPA market which is expected to take off in 2021, as more non-subsidy projects emerge from the permitting stage.

Additionally, as offshore wind developers plan for gigawatt-scale projects in the years ahead, 2021 will likely see the first large deals for capacity coming online during 2023. The large volume of power involved in these deals is likely to drive further consolidation of players in the market with access to sufficient capital.

Urgency of Meeting Electricity Demand in China From Zero-Carbon Sources: Report

O

n September 22, 2020, President Xi Jinping announced that China will strive to peak emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060. This new climate pledge is a critical step forward in the global fight against climate change and reflects China’s determination to provide responsible global leadership.

The Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) and Energy Transitions Commission (ETC) have released a report which highlights both the opportunity and urgency of meeting electricity demand growth in China almost entirely from zero-carbon generation sources. The report ‘China’s Zero-Carbon Electricity Growth in the 2020s: A Vital Step Toward

Carbon Neutrality’, outlines a scenario for 2030 that demonstrates that zero-carbon generation is economically and technologically feasible in China.

It further outlines recommendations for policies and a plan to deliver them during the 14th Five-Year Plan. The report details that the key to

achieving the goal, set by Xi, is to electrify as much of the economy as possible and to ensure that almost all electricity is generated from zero-carbon resources well before 2060. The appropriate strategy compatible with China’s long-term carbon-neutrality target should be to ensure that almost all growth in China’s JA N UA RY 20 21

electricity generating capacity is zero carbon, with no new coal investment. “The only route to a zero-carbon economy, in China as across the world China, is through massive green electrification. China’s hugely important commitments to reach carbon neutrality before 2060 and to peak emissions by 2030 should therefore be matched by a key strategy for the 2020s—with all electricity system growth coming from zero-carbon sources, and no new coal investments in the 14th Five-Year Plan. This report shows that such a strategy is easily technically possible and economically desirable,” said Lord Adair Turner, chairman of the Energy Transitions Commission.

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

43

|

P |R |O |J |E |C |T |S |& |T |E |N |D |E |R |S|

GUVNL RFS For 500 MW Solar Projects Under Phase XII Out

T

he Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited (GUVNL) has floated a request for selection (RfS) for 500 MW of gridconnected solar photovoltaic (PV) projects to be set up in the state in Phase XII. With this, the state has consolidated its lead as one of the most active state level undertakings to issue solar tenders successfully, at over 7.5 GW till date. State auctions have become a viable option for

many developers in recent months, thanks to delays in signing of PSA’s when it comes to centrally auctioned tenders. States with a decent payment record are stepping in with their own tenders accordingly. Gujarat has already seen a rate of Rs 1.99 for its tenders during Phase XI. A pointer to the sort of bids it will expect.

Successful bidders are expected to set up the transmission network up to the delivery

point for the solar project. They must secure all necessary permits and clearances required for setting up the project, including connectivity and land registration. Combining the transmission work has been the state agencies way of avoiding disputes linked to delays in transmission works completion previously, which have led to major legal issues.

Bidders must make an earnest money deposit of Rs 400,000 /MW. The last date for submitting online bids is February 23, 2021. Offline submissions can be made until February 25.

Bids have to be made for a minimum project capacity of 25 MW, with financial closure needed within 12 months of signing the power purchase agreement (PPA). The project’s declared annual capacity utilization factor (CUF) must be no less than 17% with the designed for power delivery at the nearest sub station of Gujarat Energy Transmission Company Limited (GETCO). The Gujarat Energy Development Agency (GEDA) will be the nodal agency for implementing the project.

NTPC Seeking Developers for 190 MW Solar Project in Nokh Solar Park

N

TPC Ltd has issued a tender, inviting bids from eligible bidders, for the selection of solar power developers for setting up a 190 MW grid-connected solar PV power project at the Nokh Solar Park in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.

The park being developed through Rajasthan Solar Park Development Company [i.e.

Solar Power Park Developer (SPPD)] in Nokh Village in the Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan.

The last date for bid submission is February 10, 2021, and the technocommercial bids will be opened

44

on the same date. The date and time of opening of the price bids an e-reverse auction will be intimated separately by the NTPC. A pre-bid meeting has been scheduled for January 27, 2021, to address the concerns

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

raised by the prospective bidders.

It has been specified that the selected bidders should only deploy commercially established and operational technologies to minimize the technology risk and achieve the project’s commissioning. The cells and modules used in the project should be sourced only from the models and manufacturers included in the ‘Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM)’ issued by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).

The solar plant should be

designed with the interconnection at the pooling substation at the solar park through a dedicated transmission line at a voltage level of 33 kV. The entire cost of transmission infrastructure for connecting the project up to the interconnection point, including the construction cost of the line and losses, will be borne by the developer.

Furthermore, bidders from countries that share a border with India will be eligible to bid in this tender provided that they are registered with the competent authority.

|

P |R |O |J |E |C |T |S |& |T |E |N |D |E |R |S|

L&T Pockets 410 MW EPC Wins in Gujarat

T

he Renewable Business Unit of Larsen & Toubro (L&T), the construction and engineering giant, has clinched some key contracts in Gujarat in the past week. These contracts were won through GSECL (Gujarat State Electricity Corporation Limited) and NTPC Limited.

The GSECL contract for 210 MW capacity solar project as won through an e-reverse auction on 22nd Jan 2021. The project is for a state specific scheme in waste government lands near GETCO substation. Land for the project is to be provided by GSECL in Babarzar, Jamnagar, Gujarat. L&T won this bid against the other bidder, Tata Power, with an approximate value of Rs 960 crores.

The NTPC bid was won on Jan 18, 2021, again through an e-reverse auction by NTPC. For a project capacity of 200 MW, to be located anywhere in Gujarat. NTPC had won the rights for the project as part of

GUVNL Phase XI scheme. The approximate value here is Rs 850 crores, and the other bidder again was the Tata. These projects had been bid out by GUVNL in September last year, and the winners declared in December. The project completion deadline is 18 months from NTP. Among the more interesting conditions from GSECL has been the requirement for using solar

modules to be used in the project should be of a minimum 72 cell configuration with a rated power of module greater than or equal to 350W. L&T’s Renewable EPC has emerged as a very strong player over the years after gaining expertise in different solar technologies to design and execute solar power plants of different capacities ranging from MW to GW scale.

Lightsource bp Acquires 1.06 GW Solar Portfolio of RIC Energy in Spain

L

ightsource bp, a global leader in the development and management of solar energy projects, has acquired a 1.06 gigawatt (GW) project portfolio distributed across Spain from RIC Energy, a global developer of PV projects.

Lightsource bp and RIC Energy will work in partnership to develop the 14 sites across Madrid, Andalucía, and Castilla y

León. The first projects are expected to reach “ready to build” status by the end of 2021, with the installations expected to enter operation in stages from 2023 to 2025. Lightsource bp will work to bring the project portfolio to financial close and secure the construction contract with an EPC company.

The latest acquisition follows on the acquisition and

construction of a 250 MW portfolio in Zaragoza and the acquisition of a 100 MW portfolio in Teruel, both acquired from Forestalia in 2019 and 2020 respectively. The team, based in Madrid, is currently Lightsource bp’s fastest-growing mainland European operation, going from six employees in June 2019 to 48 now, with a further 11 openings.

Kareen Boutonnat, CEO of JA N UA RY 20 21

Europe and International at Lightsource bp said “this is our largest European acquisition to date, adding 1 GW to Lightsource bp’s current pipeline and further cementing our presence in the Spanish energy market.

Partnering with local developers enables us to deploy new projects quickly and safely, providing affordable and sustainable solar power for businesses and communities across the region.

We are looking forward to working with RIC Energy and bringing this portfolio to financial close.”

The firm has also informed that it has already started approaching renewable energy buyers to propose and negotiate Power Purchase Agreements across Europe (cross-border PPA), for timeframes of up to 10 years.

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

45

|

P |R |O |J |E |C |T |S |& |T |E |N |D |E |R |S|

EESL Tenders for Off-Grid Solar Pumps Under Component B of KUSUM Scheme

E

nergy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), a JV of PSUs of the Ministry of Power, has issued a tender for the supply and commissioning of off-grid solar PV water pumping systems of 1-10 hp in selected states on a pan India basis under the component B of the PM KUSUM scheme. The scope of work for the selected bidders will include the design, manufacture, supply, transport, installation, testing and commissioning of the off-grid solar pumping systems in the selected states. The developers will also be required to provide comprehensive operation and maintenance services for the complete systems for a period of 5 years from the date of successful commissioning. The tender consists of a total of 16 clusters across India in which the solar pumps are to be installed. And 12 specific combinations of solar pumps with different controllers have

46

been specified for each project in each cluster. The bidders will have the choice to select which out of the 16 clusters they want to submit their proposal bids for.

The last date for bid submission is February 2, 2021, and the techno-commercial bids will be opened on the same date. A pre-bid meeting has been scheduled for January 21, 2021, to address the concerns raised by the prospective bidders. EESL has stated that only indigenously manufactured PV modules and pumps should be used in the programme, with ‘Made in India’ specifically required to be mentioned on both items. It has been clarified that subject to meeting terms and conditions stated in the tender document (including the pre-qualification criteria), 25 percent of the total quantity of the tender has been earmarked for registered and eligible MSEs.

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

|

P |R |O |J |E |C |T |S |& |T |E |N |D |E |R |S|

New York Awards Equinor and bp 2490 MW in Offshore Wind Contracts

E

quinor, along with incoming strategic partner bp, has been selected to provide New York State with offshore wind power in one of the largest renewable energy procurements in the US to date.

Under the award, the firm will provide a generation capacity of 1,260 megawatts (MW) renewable offshore wind power from Empire Wind 2, and another 1,230 MW of power from Beacon Wind 1 – adding to the existing commitment to provide New York with 816 MW of renewable power from Empire Wind 1 – totaling 3.3 gigawatts (GW) of power to the State. The execution of the procurement award is subject to the successful negotiation of a purchase and sale agreement, which the partnership looks forward to finalising together with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA). As

part of the award by NYSERDA, the companies will partner with the State to transform two venerable New York ports –

the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal (SBMT) and the Port of Albany – into largescale offshore wind working industrial facilities that position New York to become an offshore wind industry hub. In November 2020, Dogger Bank wind farm owners, Equinor and SSE, had announced the financial close on the first two phases of the project, representing in aggregate the largest offshore wind project financing to date globally. The project is being built in three 1.2 GW phases, with the first two phases being constructed at the same time to take advantage of the synergies resulting from their geographical proximity and use of common technology and contractors.

SSE Renewables are leading the construction of the 3.6 GW project, and Equinor will lead on the wind farm’s operations.

Spain Continues Solar Resurgence With 2 GW Allocations At Auctions

S

pain, which has had a solar boom of sorts ever since its first large 3 GW auction in 2017, has delivered yet another boost to solar capacity growth in the second such auction that was closed on January 26. The auction had reserved 1 GW for solar, and 1 GW for wind energy. Both the

targets were comfortably met, with total over subscriptions at 3 times. Solar came out the clear winner, with over 2 GW of the winning bids. With a 10 GW target for fresh Solar PV by 2025, this auction points to a comfortable exceeding of that target, if solar continues to exceed wind as comfortably as it

has here.

Spain’s Ministry for Ecological Transition announced the names of 32 winning bidders who have secured a total of 3,034MW of capacity, of which 2,036MW is solar PV and 998MW wind. These projects will get a 12-year power purchase agreement from the JA N UA RY 20 21

government, with an option to move to merchant power at the end of the period. Somewhat surprisingly, energy storage was not part of any of the bids, pointing to the challenges energy developers still see with pricing the same with solar.

Projects are due to be commissioned by March 2023.

Almost all the winning bidders seem to be Spanish/European firms as of now.

The average winning bid for solar PV was at €0.0244/kWh (Rs 2.16) with the lowest bid coming in from Ignis at €0.0148/kWh (Rs 1.31). The 3 times oversubscription was driven by 84 firms that participated. The spanish government estimates that the winning bids will draw an investment of €2.1 billion, while employing 27,000 people.

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

47

|

P |R |O |J |E |C |T |S |& |T |E |N |D |E |R |S|

Engie, Neoen in Pact for 1 GW Integrated Renewable Project in France

F

rench energy majors Engie and Neoen are collaborating to construct a 1 GW solar and storage project in south-west France. While Engie is an established Euro 60 billion giant, Neoen is a relatively new specialist power producer firm (2019 revenues Euro 253 million)that has won some big contracts recently for solar energy. One of the biggest was the recent win for a 300 MW Tesla battery (Victoria Big Battery)in Australia. It

also operates the Hornsdale battery in Australia.

The project with Engie, called the Horizeo project, is planned over 1000 hectares near the town of Saucats, in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France.

Interestingly, the project hopes to combine the solar park, battery storage, and allow agriculture too, besides a data centre and hydrogen electrolyser powered by the power generated. The

power is also expected to be used at charging points for EV’s. Thus, the project will not rely on a fixed energy tariff, relying instead on over-the-counter sales contracts. Or to use a term from the commodities markets, more of spot trading of its power. For now, with the project area impinging on a Pine forest, which will require additional clearances, the firms have also promised a public debate, through the French National Commission for Public Debate. The purpose is to address issues of the local residents in the affected area, numbering less than 20,000.

Engie’s press release says the park would supply power for more than 600,000 people. Neoen deputy CEO Paul-François Croisille said: “Horizeo is a large-scale project that will demonstrate that accelerating France’s energy transition is possible by offering competitive renewable energy directly to companies.

A project of this scale, with the many features planned, should easily cost close to Euro 1.5 billion or more when done, and will probably kick off only next year, considering the scale and issues involved.

Tender Issued for 40 MW Rooftop Solar Projects in Madhya Pradesh

M

adhya Pradesh Urja Vikas Nigam Limited (MPUVNL) has issued a tender, inviting bids from eligible bidders, for the discovery of tariff and the selection of Solar Power Developers (SPDs) for the implementation of 40 MW of grid-connected rooftop solar systems at various locations in the state, and for the sale of solar power generated by the systems under RESCO Model.

The grid-connected projects

48

may be allowed under either category I or category III, as defined in the Policy for Decentralized Renewable Energy Systems, 2016, as follows: Category I: Grid-connected net metered systems; Category III: Grid-connected systems for consumption within premises with no export of power.

The scope of work for the selected bidders will include the design, engineering, supply, financing, installation,

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

testing and commissioning of the grid-tied rooftop solar projects and then the sale of the solar power under the RESCO Model.

The developers will also be required to provide comprehensive operation and maintenance services for the rooftop systems for a period of 25 years from the date of successful commissioning. The last date for bid submission is February 19, 2021. The technocommercial bids will be opened on February 22, 2021,

and the financial bids will be opened on February 24, 2021.

A pre-bid meeting has been scheduled for February 6, 2021, to address the concerns raised by the prospective bidders.

As per the tender, the bidder will be required to quote the first year tariff in the financial bid, considering the provisions of escalation of 3 percent at the start of each operational year (second operational year onwards) till the start of the 25th operational year.

|

P |R |O |J |E |C |T |S |& |T |E |N |D |E |R |S|

Delhi Metro Tenders for 2 MW Rooftop Solar Project Under RESCO Model

T

he Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has issued a tender, inviting bids from eligible bidders, for the commissioning of a 2 MW rooftop solar PV power project under RESCO model at the staff quarters and other RCC buildings of DMRC in Delhi. The solar power generated

from the rooftop system will be fed to the grid, on a net metering basis. The scheme aims to reduce the fossil fuel based electricity load on the main grid and make the building self-sustainable from the point of electricity to the extent possible.

The scope of work for the selected bidders

will include the design, engineering, supply, storage, civil work, erection of suitable raised structure, testing and commissioning of the 2 MWp rooftop solar PV project. The developers will also be responsible for providing comprehensive Operation and Maintenance (O&M) services for the rooftop solar projects for a period of 25 years. The estimated cost of the 2 MW project is Rs 7.2 crore and the selected developers will have a period of 12 months – from the date of issuance of the allocation letter – to complete the work on the project.

The last date for bid submission is February 23, 2021, and the technical bids will be opened on February 24, 2021. A prebid meeting has been scheduled for February 9, 2021, to address the concerns raised by the prospective bidders.

To be eligible for participating in the bidding process, the bidder must have commissioned a grid-connected solar PV project of a minimum of 1 MWp (total capacity) during the last 10 years ending on June 30, 2020. And, a rooftop solar project of a minimum of 250 kWp (total capacity) in the last 10 years.

NTPC 320 MW Project Awarded to Tata Power Solar

T

ata Power Solar has announced that it has bagged an order worth Rs 1,200 crore from national generator NTPC for setting up of a 320 MW ground-mounted solar project.

For Tata Power Solar, India’s largest integrated solar company and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tata Power, the win is a boost to its project pipeline, now stands at over 4 GW, worth over Rs 12,000 crore.

The commercial operation date for this project is set for May 2022. The scope of work includes the land, acquisition, engineering, procurement, installation, and commissioning of the grid-connected solar

project on a turnkey basis along with three years of operations and maintenance services for the solar plant, power evacuation system and telemetry up to the interconnecting state transmission utility (STU) substation. The win, coming as

it does for an NTPC project is also a testimony to the firm’s cost competitiveness in the space, as NTPC has deep experience of the domain now.

Speaking on the achievement, Praveer Sinha, CEO and MD, Tata Power, said in the statement, “Tata Power is at the JA N UA RY 20 21

forefront of producing green energy across the country. Such achievement demonstrates the trust and leadership of Tata Power’s project management capability and execution skills in solar projects. “Tata Power Solar comes with a successful background of executing large projects such as the 150 MW Ayana at Ananthapur, 50 MW Kasargod at Kerala, 56 MW Greenko, 30 MWp solar power plant in Lapanga, Odisha, 105 MWp of floating solar project at Kayamkulam (under implementation). It has also won an auction conducted by Gujarat for 400 MW of projects to be built at Dholera solar Park.

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

49

|

M |O |D |U |L |E |S|

BEL Tenders for Supply of Modules for 2.86 MW Solar Plants in Maharashtra

B

harat Electronics Ltd (BEL) has issued a tender for the supply of polycrystalline solar modules with 5 years warranty for 2.86 MWp gridconnected solar power plants at Akola and Amravati, Maharashtra.

As per the tender, only those bidders and OEM’s including their other authorised distributors/channel partners who have not been disqualified by BEL in previous tenders for solar modules with effect from April 1, 2020, are eligible to submit their bids. BEL will carry out the inspection and performance evaluation of the solar modules in a factory test environment as per Quality Acceptance Plan. The inspection of all items as per the PO shall be offered in a single lot, and the modules shall be dispatched only after receipt of dispatch clearance from BEL. 95 percent of the purchase order value and

100 percent taxes shall be paid on delivery of the solar modules to site and on submission of internal factory test reports and acceptance by BEL. 5 percent of the purchase order value will be paid after completion of the warranty period of 5 years or against submission of BG for the equivalent amount for the same duration.

The solar modules shall be delivered to the site within 4 weeks from the receipt Purchase Order. The solar PV module should be of polycrystalline silicon of Tier 1 /BIS approved make. The module type must be qualified as per IEC 61215 latest edition. The module conversion efficiency should be equal to or greater than 16 percent under STC. Modules must qualify to IEC 61730 Part I and II for safety qualification testing.

Certificate for module qualification from IEC or equivalent to be submitted as part of the bid offer.

JinkoSolar N-Type Mono Modules set Record Efficiency of 23.01%

C

hinese module manufacturer JinkoSolar has announced that the company’s latest developed N-type mono modules have been tested by the authoritative third-party organization TÜV Rheinland. And, it has been confirmed that the Jinko N-type panels hit a record-high conversion efficiency of 23.01 percent, breaking the previous world record of 22.39 percent set by JinkoSolar themselves in January 2020.

The firm accomplished this achievement thanks to its industry-leading vertical integration technology, which integrates the company’s N-type TOPCon highefficiency cell technology and high-energydensity module design with advanced module welding and packaging technology to increase module optical gain and to reduce module internal resistance loss as well as to increase the proportion of cell area in the module, so as to achieve a further breakthrough in module efficiency, while significantly improving the aesthetics

50

of the module.

Jin Hao, CTO of JinkoSolar, said, “JinkoSolar will continue to promote R&D investments in high-efficient module technology, with a special focus on laboratory research results to achieve rapid and high-quality production line mass production, while constantly improving the technical level of the industry to make efficient and reliable products and bring greater value to the end customers.”

JinkoSolar’s R&D team has set a world record twice in a short period of time. Less than a week ago, the firm had announced that it had achieved a record large-area N-type monocrystalline silicon solar cell conversion efficiency of 24.9 percent independently confirmed by the Institute for Solar Energy Research in Hamelin (ISFH), Germany.

As per the firm, the record-breaking mono-crystalline silicon solar cell was fabricated on a high quality, low defect CZ mono-Si substrate.

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

Waaree Targets 5 GW Capacity by 2021 With 3 GW Module Line From Jinchen

C

hinese module manufacturer Yingkou Jinchen Machinery Co., Ltd. (Jinchen), has announced the signing of a deal with Mumbai based manufacturer Waaree Energies for a 3 GW high efficiency photovoltaic modules automatic production line. This is the largest stand alone project for any Chinese equipment manufacturer and any firm overseas for Jinchen. Waaree, led by Chairman and MD Hitesh Doshi, is India’s largest PV module manufacturer along with Adani solar, and has been working with Jinchen for several years.

The firm has an existing capacity of 2 GW. The 3GW solar PV module production line signed this time will be delivered in April 2021, and officially put into operation in June 2021. By then, Waaree’s total capacity on module manufacturing will reach 5 GW, making it the largest module manufacturer in India. Although other manufacturers like Vikram Solar and Adani Solar too have expansion plans.

Vikas Singh, Key account Manager, Jinchen group was quoted saying that , “The cooperation between Jinchen and Waaree is another successful example of Jinchen’s “Intelligent manufacturing” participating in global sustainable development. Multiple repetitive orders from all valued customers in India and overseas; show customer’s satisfaction and trust on Jinchen.” While Waaree will hope that the policy environment in terms of higher duties on imports changes by the time its fresh production comes on stream, sticking to module manufacturing also leaves it dependent on vagaries of price movement in other key inputs, especially solar cells. An issue that had dogged module manufacturers in India hard in 2020. Waaree has sold over 3 GW solar panels till date, and has targeted the export market successfully, with a recent order for 105 MW to the US still fresh. The firm had also recently obtained IECEE CB certifications for its bifacial modules, a first for a firm in India.

|

O |P |I |N |I |O |N |S|

Budget 2021. Familiar Tussle Between Developers And Manufacturers

A

s the 2021 budget comes around on February 1, it is widely considered to be one of the most critical of the century, coming as it does after the Covid19 pandemic, which is still to end. While the start of vaccination has brought in a semblance of control back to the government on its future, the growth challenge remains one of its toughest tasks, especially in the solar sector.

Not only has the solar sector been one of the few consistent bright spots for the government, by delivering capacities at ever lower costs, it has also by now created a strong ecosystem of suppliers, both domestic and foreign. Which is where the government’s ‘Atmanirbhar’ moves here are being watched very closely. Bharat Bhut, Co-founder and Director at Goldi Solar, a leading Surat based manufacturer of Solar modules speaks for most manufacturers when he says “We hope that the Union Budget 2021 offers clarity and immediate implementation of the basic customs duty on solar cells and modules. Subversions or supportive policy measures, incentives and financial support need to be provided to local suppliers to strengthen the auxiliary

52

industry and eventually make the domestic solar industry and the ecosystem costcompetitive. It is also our hope that this will give a significant boost towards achieving an “Atmanirbhar Bharat”. The solar manufacturing industry is also eagerly awaiting the PLI (Production Linked Incentive) scheme for high-efficiency modules to come into effect.”

The situation has been exacerbated by China’s efforts to change the status quo on its borders with India, forcing the Indian government to explore all avenues to hit back, including reducing imports from that country. With close to 70 percent share of solar equipment till 2019, it was an obvious move, except that it comes with severe challenges.

For one, concentration of solar manufacturing in China has made it a very efficient and low cost option for developers, and helped in no small way to reduce the LCOE of solar power. Driving a shift to domestic equipment manufacturers will mean giving up a significant part of these savings, especially of the sort seen since 2019. For India, whose messy power sector is a mish mash of cross subsidies, free

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

power and high power losses, low cost power is almost the sole decider for power purchases by stressed distribution firms.

Thus, even as developers who have won bids in the past 18 months will push for no extra duties, domestic manufacturers like Vikram Solar have made it clear that investments into manufacturing, and even sustaining existing capacities, needs protection from Chinese imports, of an order much higher than the present 14.9 percent Safeguard Duty(SGD). While we have been hearing of demands for a figure as high as 30-50 percent, the fact that the government chose to defer any more increases in customs duty to April 2022 tells you about its compulsions.

It is hoping that in the period between the establishment of fresh, modern manufacturing capacities in cells and modules, and fresh protection for these, most of the procurement for projects already bid out can end. As always, this being India, and thanks to the Covid linked delays, that looks unlikely by April 2022 even.

Developers will also be keen to see passage of the Electricity (amendment ) bill 2020,

|

O |P |I |N |I |O |N |S|

with its stricter RPO obligations, enforceability of contracts and a more uniform policy environment nationally.

But that has already become a political hot potato, with little support outside non BJP parties today.

With solar manufacturing coming under the PLI scheme, the hope is that the government will use that option to incentivise manufacturing for now. Solar Manufacturing also needs to spread out more widely in the solar chain, especially when it comes to ingots, wafers and cells, rather than just modules.

It also seems far more reasonable to hope for a shift in subsidy support to storage linked tenders, to support enough investments into RE+storage capacities, which will be increasingly needed in the future with a higher share of RE in the grid as well as other storage linked opportunities. The storage focus is also critical for the country’s transition in transportation to an EV led future. With batteries being the equivalent of modules in EV’s, manufacturing those in India will be key to preserve the self reliance in Auto sector that has been built up painstakingly over the years.

Industry hopes of a lower GST also seem to be a tough ask, considering the widely anticipated push for a more uniform GST rate soon, instead of multiple slabs with large groups of goods within each. However, a 5 percent GST rate, if it happens, will certainly be welcome for all stakeholders in the sector.

An area where both developers and manufacturers will be on the same page is the recent increase in prices of metals, especially those used in structures. That has hit both hard, as many manufacturers also had EPC divisions.

Irrespective, the government will be careful to balance out its steps vis a vis the stalling of growth in the sector that has been seen for the past 3 years now.

Some of the biggest moves will involve cleaning up the issues at discom level, and enforcing RPO more strongly. The stick that the Electricity act sought to bring looks increasingly like it will be replaced by a carrot of financial incentives now.

China Power Market In 2020 - Surge for Wind, Solar, Consumption Up 3.1%

O

n January 19, China’s National Energy Administration (NEA) released data on electricity consumption for the full year (2020). And the numbers are surprising, in more ways than one.

The big surprise of 2020 was the newly installed capacity of power sources. At 190.87 million kilowatts, these included 13.23 million kilowatts of hydropower, 71.67 million kilowatts of wind power, and 48.2 million kilowatts of solar power. The 71.67 GW of Wind, to put it in perspective, is higher than the GLOBAL projected additions that were made by the Global Wind Energy Council in November 2020.

Similarly, on Solar power too, China has comfortably gone past the estimates of 36-45 GW, by adding an impressive 48.2 GW. Coming from the NEA, these numbers should be credible, and point to the challenges of getting China numbers for outside firms, including global bodies like the GWEC. For instance, till November, it was widely assumed that wind capacity additions were less than 25 GW. The final numbers have clearly been massaged by the rush to complete, or ‘qualify’ wind projects, as subsidies stop from January 2021. This pre-dating also causes a gap between claimed numbers and grid connected capacity, which was as high as 26.3 GW at the end of 2019, for instance.

Take away that number, and you have a far more acceptable 46 GW number for fresh Wind additions, for instance.

The total electricity consumption of the country was up to 7511 billion kWh, a yearon-year increase of 3.1%. In terms of industries, the power consumption of primary industries was 85.9 billion kWh, a year-on-year increase of 10.2%; the power consumption of the secondary industries was 5121.5 billion kWh, a year-on-year increase of 2.5%; the power consumption of

the tertiary industry was 1208.7 billion kWh, a year-on-year increase of 1.9 %; The electricity consumption of urban and rural residents was 1,094.9 billion kWh, a yearon-year increase of 6.9%.

In 2020, the cumulative average utilization hours of power generation equipment in power plants of 6000 kilowatts and above across the country was 3758 hours, a decrease of 70 hours year-onyear. Among them, the average utilization hours of hydropower equipment was 3827 hours, an increase of 130 hours year-onyear while the average utilization hours of thermal power equipment were 4216 hours, a decrease of 92 hours year-on-year.

The impact of the higher investments in both wind and Solar are perhaps beginning to show on utilisation of thermal, though it might be too early to call a long term trend here.

What is clear is that the massive capacity expansions and upgrades made by domestic solar firms, and now Wind energy firms, were done on the back of a confidence in a very large domestic market. With global solar additions in 2021 already projected to be in the range of 150 GW to 195 GW, China looks set to deliver over a third of these numbers in 2021. The extra capacity and upgrades in module sizes will also make it more challenging for both existing and potential competitors to match up to the Chinese on price or efficiency.

Something manufacturers in India will keep an eye on, and need more protection from finally.

The new focus on Wind Energy also follows the script, following a drop in prices since 2018. Wind energy is finally reaching prices acceptable to the Chinese to supply to their high consumption centres along the coast, which means a new thrust on offshore wind. Something we highlighted earlier last week.

JA N UA RY 20 21

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

53

|

O |P |I |N |I |O |N |S|

Vietnam’s Record 9.5 GW of Rooftop Solar Addition Is A 2020 Success Story

B

ack in 2019, when predictions for 2020 were still being made, not a single analyst could have predicted the convulsions that Covid-19 would cause across industry, including the solar sector.

With 2020 behind us finally, it is instructive to look at Vietnam, a market where Covid seems to have had zero impact, with the country delivering a record high solar installation number, powered by rooftop solar. So what did Vietnam actually achieve?

A growth record that will take some beating, for starters. From a base of 378 MWp in 2019 base the country has ramped up capacity almost 25 fold to almost 9.6 GWp, spread across almost 110,000 systems.

These numbers have leapfrogged Vietnam to the top of South East Asian nations on solar capacity, taking the lead over Thailand.

Those numbers in rooftop solar not only demonstrate the zero impact of Covid on the country’s solar growth, but also demonstrate the massive impact solar can have with the right policies today. For the

54

record, with these Vietnam actually achieved its 2025 target in 2020.

Coincidentally for India, which had targeted 40 GW of rooftop solar by 2022 end, those sort of capacity numbers would be very handy to reach its target, and it says something for our local problems, that not even the most optimistic analysts will even consider the proposition anymore.

To be fair, the Vietnam numbers have been achieved in a mad rush to qualify for the second, and last of the country’s Feed in tariff regimes, which had a hard end on December 31, 2020. that also explains how 6.72 GW was installed in just the final month, December. Something similar has happened in China, and earlier the US too as subsidies were phased out. India saw no such rush for installations, due to both the status, and handling of subsidies in the rooftop sector. Which technically continue, but have been subject to repeated policy changes, and delays in payment, making the rooftop solar sector almost a non-starter in most states.

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

Vietnam’s original FIT policy had created a solar ground mount boom with 2019 installations of about 5.317GWp from a cumulative 2018 solar base of 106 MWp. FIT 2 started in April 2020, to support the momentum in the industry.

FIT 2 seems to have worked much better for rooftop solar, thanks to a subsidy of 8.38 US cents/kWh, lower than the FIT 1, which was 9.35 US cents/kWh. Available for projects commissioned till 31 December 2020 for a 20 year period. With limited land, floating solar has also been in focus, though numbers there are not available yet.

But that will definitely be in focus going forward.

With cumulative solar capacity hitting well over 16 GW now, FIT 2 added 1.5 G of utility or ground mounted solar too in 2020.

This growth has been supported by a sharp growth in power consumption, led by industrialization of the country, besides the right conditions for solar power, in terms of high irradiance. Conditions that India is also trying to replicate with its Atmanirbhar schemes, and power for all plans.

|

S |T |O |R |A |G |E|

Total and 174 Power to Develop 1.6 GW Solar & Storage Projects in US

T

otal and 174 Power Global, a whollyowned Hanwha Group affiliate, have signed an agreement to form a 50/50 joint venture (JV) to develop 12 utilityscale solar and energy storage projects of 1.6 gigawatts (GW) cumulative capacity in the United States, transferred from 174 Power Global’s development pipeline.

The first project started production in 2020, and the remainder will be put on stream between 2022 and 2024. Located

in Texas, Nevada, Oregon, Wyoming and Virginia the projects will produce clean and reliable energy across the US and lead to the creation of jobs in engineering, construction and plant operations.

“I am confident that this will pave the way to more opportunities in the US renewables and storage market,” said Julien Pouget, Director Renewables of Total. “I am very pleased to extend our long-standing cooperation with the Hanwha Group into

renewable energies and successfully contribute to the development of solar power generation in the US.” This transaction is the first significant step for Total in the US utility-scale solar market, in line with its 2025 ambition to achieve 35 GW of renewables production capacity worldwide.

174 Power Global President and CEO, Henry Yun, PhD said “both 174 Power Global and Total have a strong understanding of one another’s business strategies and investment standards. This is a great partnership, and we are excited to work with the Total team and further our joint commitment to clean renewable energy and low-carbon investments.”

Recently, the French major had announced the signing of a cooperation agreement to design, develop, build and operate the Masshylia project, France’s largest renewable hydrogen production site at Châteauneuf-lesMartigues in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur South region.

CESC, Exide Partner For First Large BESS Project In Bengal

K

olkata Discom CESC and Exide, India’s largest battery manufacturer have partnered on a grid connected 315 kWh battery energy storage systems (BESS) at low tension (LT) distribution system for better peak load management. The project is the first of its kind for West Bengal at this scale. CESC is part of the RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group.

The storage battery is expected to improve voltage profile, frequency management, responsiveness to to integrate intermittent solar energy sources and overall power distribution.

The newly inaugurated BESS

is located at CESC’s East Calcutta Sub- station near Kankurgachi, Kolkata.

It is safe to assume that in 2021, at least a few more of India’s top metro cities will go for similar systems, probably at a larger scale, to meet their own requirements.

Going with Exide industries core strength, this batterybased energy storage system uses Gel type Lead Acid Technology.

Earlier, Tata DDL was the only other discom with a functional BESS in India to meet similar objectives as the JA N UA RY 20 21

new one at Kolkata. Not coincidentally, in both cases, the discoms involved have been serving urban, relatively affluent regions. And both are profitable. Serving to underscore the key role the financial health of discoms will play if battery storage is to progress as projected in India.

The public listed CESC, in its results for the December quarter, had declared a higher topline and net profits of Rs 328 crores.

For Exide, which ended 201920 with revenues of Rs 5107 crore, the project will add to its learnings as it seeks to align itself to the next stage of battery technology.

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

55

|

S |T |O |R |A |G |E|

The Case For Battery Storage- A UK View

A

report by partners at LCP LLP, a UK based advisory firm, picks on battery storage as an investment opportunity. Its an interesting pointer to the possible future in the UK and also in India at some stage, although the Indian case would be a possibility after some major reforms and deregulation. But as a way to understand the case for battery storage and

generating a business model around that, the report is still relevant we believe.

The report starts off with the peg that in GB (Great Britain), wind power was curtailed on 75 percent of the days in 2020.

Adding up to almost 3.6 TWh of energy in total, mostly due to grid constraints. That is the starting point for a case for batteries.

The authors touch upon each of the four

main revenue streams in the grid scale battery storage business, namely, arbitrage, balancing, capacity provision and frequency response, to point out the opportunities and challenges. Keep in mind that in a market like India, the case for battery storage at scale is yet weak, primarily due to cost concerns, and the fact that other key conditions, be it curtailment, significant demand spikes that demand more generation capacity, or even a variable power pricing market, do not yet exist.

Though between planned reforms like the Electricity Amendment act, the higher share of renewable energy planned by 2030 (well over 40 percent) and expected increase in per capita power consumption, all these conditions should exist in some form on the other by 2025 and beyond.

Back to the report. The authors make no secret of the fact that there are many levers which affect a battery project’s potential, each of which come with large degrees of uncertainty. Competition from other flexible assets, policy and regulatory change, deployment of new storage technologies, uptake of electric vehicles, consumer behaviour, locations of new build assets, timescales of network reinforcements, and efficiency of trading – each of these levers can swing a battery project’s potential from black to red.

With 120 MWh Storage Win, Israel’s Augwind Challenges Lithium-ion Storage

Y

akum, Israel-based Augwind has been claiming that its Air Battery energy storage system will be superior to Lithium battery storage. The firm got a big boost earlier this month when Israel’s Electric Authority awarded a big tender for 609 megawatts of solar and 2.4 gigawatt-hours of energy storage, of which at least 120 megawatt-hours of storage will be from Augwind’s compressed air energy storage

56

systems. The project is due to be completed by July 2023.

That’s early enough to provide Augwind a shot at the huge storage opportunity that is expected to open up between now and 2030, worldwide.

With a turnover of just over NIS 6.8 million (Rs 15.3 crore) in 2019, this Israeli firm has huge ambitions.

Israel is targeting 16 GW of solar capacity and at least 8 gigawatt-hours of energy storage by 2030.

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

Augwind will be working with another Israeli solar developer, Solegreen Ltd, which won 95.6 MW of solar capacity in the tender. Augwind’smost notable achievement till now had been a deal with EDF Renewables to build a 5 MW solar plant along with a 20 MWh AirBattery energy storage system.

Augwind’s Air Battery system is claimed to have an overall efficiency of 75-81 percent on facilities above the 5 MW scale. The firm claims

their solution is greener as it doesn’t need any chemical elements unlike lithium-ion batteries and also doesn’t suffer from the flammable risks of batteries. In fact, the firm has likened its solution to pumped storage systems, the oldest and most dominant storage system in use worldwide, with the added caveat that Augwind systems, being underground, take up even smaller footprints on the land.

|

S |T |O |R |A |G |E|

Canadian Solar Breaks Ground on 300 MW Solar Plus 561 MWh Storage Project in California

C

anadian Solar has announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Recurrent Energy, completed the sale of the Slate project to Goldman Sachs Renewable Power (GSRP).

The project is a 300 MWac solar plus 140.25 MW / 561 MWh storage project located in Kings County, California, and has commenced construction.

Canadian Solar’s majority-owned energy storage subsidiary, System Solutions and Energy Storage (SSES), will provide the battery storage integration solution for the project. Additionally, PNC Bank is providing a tax equity commitment to the project, which demonstrates its pledge to not only manage its own operations in an environmentally sustainable manner but also to support clients with innovative financing options as the world transitions to a low-carbon economy.

FTM Storage Costs to Decline 30% by 2025 in Asia Pacific: WoodMac

A

The project has signed PPAs with five different off-takers, four of which are solar and energy storage, and one that is solar-only.

Dr. Shawn Qu, Chairman and CEO of Canadian Solar said “the Slate project is Recurrent Energy’s largest solar-plus-storage project and represents continued investment in a community where we have done business for nearly a decade. Given the huge market opportunity presented by battery storage, both standalone as well as paired with solar, we have focused significant resources in developing our own technological, servicing and financing solutions over the past few years. We are now starting to see our efforts come to fruition and are solidly positioning Canadian Solar as a market leader in this space.

The project will generate enough low-cost, clean energy to power approximately 126,000 California homes. The power plant will utilize approximately 962,000 of Canadian Solar’s high-efficiency bifacial BiKu modules across approximately 2,400 acres in Kings County, California.

ll-in front-of-themeter (FTM) battery storage system costs in Asia Pacific markets could decline by more than 30 percent by 2025, according to research and consultancy firm Wood Mackenzie.

Storage system prices fell faster than anticipated in 2020, the biggest driver being battery price reductions.

Improvements in battery energy density also contributed to lower overall balance of system (BOS) components and associated costs.

Wood Mackenzie senior analyst Mitalee Gupta said that “as batteries are expected to represent shrinking portion of all-in system costs, there will be heightened focus on BOS cost reductions moving forward.

“Manufacturers will continue to innovate and produce BOS components that help reduce labour costs, and installation crews are implementing more efficient labour practices as they gain more experience on job sites.

Competitive markets will drive system efficiencies,

JA N UA RY 20 21

product standardisation and cheaper batteries as we progress towards 2025,” she added.

As per the research, world leader China currently sets the record for lowest all-in costs globally. The country’s 2-hour duration all-in FTM system cost is expected to decline 33 percent to USD 369 per kilowatt (kW) in 2025 compared to USD 554/ kW last year. As a battery powerhouse, the country has benefitted from favourable policy landscape and domestic supply chain.

“Asia Pacific is the largest manufacturer for lithiumion batteries today and will continue to dominate global cell manufacturing capacity through 2030. As the region’s storage industry takes off, every component across the value chain will play a role in bringing down system costs. Fire risks and safety standards, tariffs and trade policies, and safeguarding the supply chain amidst Covid-19 uncertainty are factors that could make or break the industry,” Gupta concluded.

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

57

|

S |P |E |C |I |A |L |S|

NISE Develops Solar Powered Products Besides Testing and Certification

W

e caught up with Dr. Arun Kumar Tripathi, Director General (DG) at the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE), to understand developments at the top national R&D institution in the field of solar energy.

As he informs us, an autonomous institution of the Ministry of New and Renewable (MNRE), NISE was established to be a leading Institute in the field of solar energy through research & development, testing, certification and evaluation, economics, and policy Planning. Not only this but, NISE has developed some innovative solar powered products which completely runs off-grid only through solar energy.

Dr. Tripathi described the four pillars on which NISE established its missions and visions.

“At present, NISE is focusing on basically four pillars, one of that is research and development, which includes the applied research and basic research. Applied research sees the product development.

And, the second one is consultancy. NISE is providing a lot of consultancy to the states, people, individuals, departments, and central departments.”

58

He further explained, “The third one is skill development. NISE is implementing a very massive skill development program of the government of India, called the ‘Sauryamitra’ program. In this, we have trained over 48 thousand technician level people. It is a three months course in which we have developed about 200 training centers all over the country, collaborated with different organizations and trained them.

And the fourth one is the testing, quality assurance, and certification that are very important.”

Besides these four objectives, NISE has also developed some solar powered products, which runs through solar energy without connecting to the grid. There are a total of 25 brilliant scientists working on Research and Developments and a total of 16 projects were reviewed in the Fiscal year 2018-19 at NISE. During the discussion with Saur Energy, Assistant Director at NISE, Mr. Vikrant Yadav elaborated on the development and functioning of the products.

(Products in Link - https://www. saurenergy.com/solar-energyconversation/

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

nise-develops-solar-powered-productsbesides-testing-and-certification) According to the Director General, the testing and certification process is the same as other certification organizations. NISE has NABL accredited laboratories for testing of solar components such as solar PV modules, inverters, batteries, solar thermal and solar water pumps. Testing facilities according to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and the international standards of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). After testing it provides the test report along with the certificate, which may take time from one to three weeks. In the Fiscal year, 201819 a total of 80 samples were tested and certified in this laboratory, generating a revenue of Rs. 32.89 Lakhs at NISE. Additionally, NISE has a greater involvement in the formulation stage and provides all the technical support for making the specifications of PM KUSUM scheme or in every scheme of MNRE. It has a presence in the various committees of MNRE and provides the supports for making the technical specifications and involved in almost every activity of MNRE.

|

S |P |E |C |I |A |L |S|

229.25 RE Capacity Added in First 10 Months of FY21 in Andhra Pradesh

T

he New and Renewable Energy Development Corporation of AP (NREDCAP) has issued the updated status of renewable energy (RE) projects commissioned in the state of Andhra Pradesh (until January 18, 2021). The data revealed that in the first 10 months of the FY 2020-21, the state has had 229.25 MW of RE capacity connected to its grid.

The entire new capacity came from solar power projects.

With this new capacity, the state currently boasts of a cumulative operational renewable capacity of 8424.018 MW or 8.42 GW. A majority of which is through wind power projects (4079.37 MW) and solar power projects (3752.24).

The remainder of the 592.408 MW capacity is met via small hydro, biomass, co-generation, and waste-based projects.

For wind energy, which is the leading source of clean energy generation in the Southern state. There have been no new installations in the last 21 months, with the last project commissioned a 2 MW wind project in Kurnool

commissioned by Gajavelli Spinning Mills in April 2019.

In that time a total of 721.75 MW of solar power capacity has been commissioned in the state, bringing it close to being the leading clean energy source in the state. Besides solar and wind projects, no other clean energy projects have been commissioned in the state over the last three years.

The leading (not exclusive) reason for the slow uptake in new renewable capacity in the state has been the disputes that have been festering since 201819 between multiple wind and solar developers and the new state government which was hell bent on renegotiating the PPA’s signed during the previous government tenure.

This move by the government has been met with stiff opposition from generators, as well as the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), which has specifically quoted the Andhra example to tighten up contract provisions and make changes in the proposed electricity act to prevent a recurrence.

The latest blow in that

segment was dealt by Tata Power Renewable Energy which managed to get a stay order from the Andhra Pradesh High Court on the massive 6,400 MW ultra mega solar project recently proposed by the state government.

The Andhra Pradesh High Court has now directed the state not to enter into any agreements for the mega solar park, until the next hearing on February 15. As issue is the legal validity of the state government move to shift jurisdiction over these fresh projects to itself, rather than the state electricity regulator.

The AP plans for the 6400 MW solar projects are being fronted by a special firm the state government has set up, called the Andhra Pradesh Green Energy Development Corporation (APGEDCL). A key objective is to provide farmers with 9 hours of uninterrupted power supply in the day time.

That makes these solar bids probably one of the last few that are plain vanilla solar parks, with no storage or other components.

This announcement for the JA N UA RY 20 21

6.4 GW solar bids came after the state government made the announcement earlier that it plans to build solar infrastructure for 10 GW to meet the energy requirements of the agriculture sector. The locations for the planned new plants are spread all over the state, with sizes ranging from 400 MW at Thondur, to 1200 MW at Kambadur.

After a year in which the state government, by its act of attempting to renegotiate PPA’s, did more damage and delay to the state’s and country’s solar march than almost any other event sans Covid in recent times. It remains to be seen, that when (and if ) the bids for the 6.4 GW solar projects go through, just which firms bid for and win these contracts, seeing how some of the biggest players have been impacted by the earlier moves of the state government.

But with unresolved disputes still doing rounds and more expected to come up in the near future, it is expected to be a long wait before the state sees renewable installations ramp up.

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

59

|

S |O |L |A |R |P |R |O |D |U |C |T|S

|

Solar-Powered UV Cleaning PRODUCT FEATURES:

Ultraviolet (UV) light will get the best and precise cleaning up to termination of all kinds of germs and nanoparticles. Ultraviolet also provides a self-cleaning option for the cleaning piece. The viruses and microorganisms are completely inactivated in just one stroke of Polly. Polly combines the effectiveness and health of special UV-C type rays. The cleaning surface of Polly is mix of nylon, cotton and polyester! Made to be in 4 layers Polly becomes perfect PRODUCT BRIEF: to cleaning all types of surfaces. Its A solar powered, head is made of Plexiglas, handle is completely wireless made of recycled aluminum, and Polly Cleaning tool with the cleaning piece- is made of UV Light, having 4 cleaning materials that come with a 6 layers with 2 Year Warranty. months warranty.

PRODUCT APPLICATION:

A cleaning tool that will make sure that everything is clean till the smallest Nano body. Cleans 4 types of floors.

PRODUCT BENEFITS:

We strive to clean the places that must stay clean. Polly is wireless and gets charged from both natural and nonnatural lights. It gets charged seamlessly with 2 hours of being in the solar light being enough for 6 hours of full usage.

AVAILABILITY:

The Product is available in various models for INR 10,147; INR 4,672; INR 19,636 on the firm’s website.

ITEHIL- Most Powerful 2200Wh Solar Power Station Product Brief: ITEHIL is the revolutionary solar power station that provides an unrivaled 2200Wh capacity and 2000W output, which is your perfect companion whenever you need power.

you to charge it anywhere you go, you’ll always be ready.

PRODUCT APPLICATION:

Portable solar power station

PRODUCT BENEFITS:

ITEHIL is powerful enough to power PRODUCT FEATURES: your entire kitchen even when a power Equipped with 16 different power outage happens. It has managed to outputs, it has Lithium-iron Phosphate support all power tools as well. It is able battery cell with a life of 10 to 15 to charge a variety of devices, all the years. Featuring 2200Wh monstrous way from laptops, phones, routers, minicapacity and 2000w output, that is fridges, blenders, and even projectors ecofriendly and extremely safe to use. during camping. ITEHIL can even power With an innovative solar panel that allows a TESLA for an extra 8 miles!

AVAILABILITY:

The product is available in various options; Super Early Bird: ITEHIL for INR 65,672. IGG Special: Solar Panel for INR for INR 14,536.

IGG Special: Power Pack for INR 51,060. It is available at firms website

Voroly Solar Garden Light Scene Torch Product Brief: Auto On/Off Solar Lighting for Yard Garden Party and Festival Decoration.

PRODUCT FEATURES:

Unique Flames Design: These torches lights truly prove to be a very safe alternative to the real flames as they don’t actually carry real fire. Eco-friendly and Long-Time working: It doesn't need battery power.

Weather Resistant: It is resistant to all weather conditions throughout the year, including hot summers, snowy winters and heavy rains. Easy to Install: Accompanied with a long ground plastic pipe and spike, it’s easy to install and insert the ground.

60

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

PRODUCT APPLICATION:

Solar torch lights. A safe alternative to real flames, with gorgeous dancing flame design, creating a charming ambience for enjoying in all four seasons.

PRODUCT BENEFITS:

You can enjoy the beautiful lighting lamp even at power outage or no fire work around. Direct from solar energy.

AVAILABILITY:

The product is available at e-commerce website for INR 990 at; https://amzn.to/2MtOor0

|

S |O |L |A |R |P |R |O |D |U |C |T|S

|

Moovy Bag The Essential All-in-one Device Carry Product Brief:

The Moovy bag is a sleek with built in power bank and solar panel, modern high-tech backpack which keeps users organized and connected, on the go.

PRODUCT FEATURES:

Open your bag to recharge the battery. Thinnest and lightest solar. Only 190 grams. The Moovy Solar absorbs light over the widest spectral range that means it can capture light for a longer period of time especially

when sunlight may be limited.

Moovy Solar lasts more time thanks to its light diffusion compare to other panel which gradually declines.

PRODUCT APPLICATION:

The Solar panel charges the battery that will charge all your devices. It can be used both indoor and outdoor. The Moovy Go Hub has 2 USB port so you can charge 2 devices simultaneously like bluetooth accessories, smartwatch, any electronics usb powered

devices. It is designed to be fit on the board and charge the devices with magnets.

PRODUCT BENEFITS:

A high-tech bag with inbuilt power bank, inbuilt solar panel and different compartments for laptop, phone, and many more things. You can take it outdoor and charge your electronic tools within.

AVAILABILITY:

The product is available on the retail and firms websit for USD 144.

Wipro Coral Plus Rechargeable Solar LED Lantern PRODUCT BRIEF:

A rechargeable lithium battery operated emergency light with a foldable hook that provides light in 360 degrees of direction. Battery Capacity: 4000 mAh.

PRODUCT FEATURES:

It has Dual Charging supply i.e. plug in your lantern to charge it and when there is no access to a power supply, the sun can recharge your lantern. The LED lantern is equipped with a 4000 mAh powerful battery, which gives up to 20 hours of backup. It is Equipped with a knob to make

dimming and brightening easy. Also, it gives the 360 degree light output of the lantern.

PRODUCT APPLICATION:

Solar Emergency Light

PRODUCT BENEFITS:

You can use the lantern at the time of power outage. It can get charge in day time by solar energy and work in emergency.

AVAILABILITY:

The product is available on the e-commerce website for INR 899

Ginjot: A multifunctional flexible UV cleaning mop PRODUCT BRIEF:

degrees and clean any unreachable angle.

PRODUCT FEATURES:

Gijot is made from recycled plastic and is solar-powered, which indicates its eco-friendliness.

A cleaning mop with Look and Hoop system with 360° Swivel, Water spray UV Light and Solar Panel.

Ginjot: a flexible, all in one, ecofriendly, innovative cleaning mop. The cleaning mop is easy to use, it cleans dirt from any surface, and most importantly it’s lightweight and multifunctional. It has a washable, dual-sided microfiber pad that deals with all kinds of surfaces.

Inside there is a UV light placed, which clean 99, 9% of any surface. Ginjot is flexible, meaning that it can rotate 360

PRODUCT APPLICATION:

PRODUCT BENEFITS:

It is solar powered, ecofriendly cleaning mop, you can use even at power outage.

AVAILABILITY:

The product is available on firm’s website and on retail for INR 3,580.

JA N UA RY 20 21

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL

S AUR E N E R GY. C O M

61

|

O |P |P |O |R |T |U |N |I |T |I |E |S

|

Manager, Power & Renewable Energy- ICF

Energy Efficiency Analyst- Guidehouse

Working at ICF means applying a passion for meaningful work with intellectual rigor to help solve the leading issues of our day. Smart, compassionate, innovative, committed, ICF employees tackle unprecedented challenges to benefit people, businesses, and governments around the globe.

Guidehouse is a leading management consulting firm serving the public and commercial markets. We guide our clients forward towards new futures that build trust in society and your professional skills along the journey. Join us at Guidehouse.

JOB LOCATION: New Delhi JOB DESCRIPTION: We seek a highly motivated and experienced Power and RE expert in the role of Manager in our office. We seek candidates who will help us grow ICF’s energy market business, building on our established team and leveraging ICF’s broad energy sector capabilities in energy markets.

ELIGILBILTY CRITERIA: The candidate should have a strong academic background, experience of working in power and RE; have an ability to quickly learn and master new concepts; an ability to establish and nurture relationships with clients; ability to think logically and also creatively; work independently; and at the same time have the ability to contribute as a team player; and most importantly have a result oriented approach to completing tasks.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical preferred) or Economics from tier-1 institutions.

• Masters degree in Economics, Management or technical (MTech) field • Qualifications/ certifications related to data sciences will be desirable

APPLY AT: https://www.icf.com/careers/jobs/ R2100030?source=Linkedin_Job

JOB LOCATION: Kerala JOB DESCRIPTION: Seeking an Energy Efficiency Analyst to support the Customer & Markets group within our North American Energy Practice. The analyst will be responsible for assisting in energy efficiency analysis using propriety and 3rd party tools. The analyst will support our consulting staff on a range of energy-related projects, particularly in the field of energy efficiency (EE). As members of the team, the Energy Efficiency Analyst will also be responsible for the collection, maintenance and analysis of a complex energy efficiency measure characterization database.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: • Bachelor of Science with an emphasis on analysis, logical reasoning, or problem solving (e.g., engineering, economics, mathematics, physical sciences, etc.); focus on building science, or mechanical engineering preferred. Experience with HVAC is a plus.

• 1 - 2 years’ experience working with energy efficiency or demand side management • Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Excel (V Look-ups, Pivot Tables, Regressions) • Strong interest in energy efficiency, renewable energy, distributed generation, and advanced technologies.

• Experience in application programming is a plus (e.g., R, Matlab, Analytica, Python, SQL)

APPLY AT: https://careers.guidehouse.com/jobs/9040?lang=enus?utm_source=linkedin.com&utm_medium=job_posting&utm_ campaign=Core_Media&utm_content=social_media&utm_ term=277974857&ss=paid

Inside Sales executive- MYSUN MYSUN is India’s largest online rooftop solar company with operations pan India.

The company provides most advanced engineering, technology and highest quality solar services across residential, industrial and commercial categories. All the MYSUN solar rooftop systems come with a 25-years solar service promise package with our inhouse team of veteran solar experts ensuring its consumers to get the most out of their solar rooftop systems. We are committed to making adoption of rooftop solar in India both economical and at scale.

JOB LOCATION: Noida JOB DESCRIPTION: Inside Sales

62

SAUR ENERGY INTERNATIONAL J A N UA RY 2 02 1 SAURENERGY .C O M

Executive Job-profile/ Responsibilities Interaction with customers from various cities. Managing customer queries. Recording and assigning queries to concerned teams as per process requirement. Primarily calling the Commercial and Industrial Clients. Developing new customer database and conducting outbound calling primarily. Listening to and understanding the customer’s requirement. Implement the training imparted by the company in handling clients Use Direct as well as online marketing/ business development tools Capturing details

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: • Education Graduate in any discipline.

• Minimum 0-2 years of experience in Sales Campaign Fresher with good communication skills is also eligible Experience in the renewable energy sector.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills Ability to work both independently and as a part of the team Remuneration

APPLY AT: https://in.talent.com/vie w?id=6e0c186c267d&source=linked in-standard&utm_medium=linkedinstandard

PROVIDING COMPLETE TURNKEY

SAND TO ENERGY SOLUTION

India's Most Experienced Fully Integrated, Technology, Application and Knowledge Engineering Group with end to end O & M Capabilities.

Cell Manufacturing

Module Manufacturing

Wafer

Ingot

Polysilicon

Inverter

Charge Controller

FCEV

Bergen Solar Power and Energy Limited

floor, Plot No. 21, Institutional Area, Sector 32, Gurugram, Haryana, India-122018|Tel : +91(0124) 4986400-416 | Fax : +91(0124) 4986405 Email : pv@bergengroupindia.com |Web : www.bergengroupindia.com nd