SolarQuarter September 2017 by SolarQuarter

Special Focus - Solar PV Structures & Tracking System

www.solarquarter.com

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Volume 07. l Issue 9

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September 2017

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Hassel Free Solution TM

The MSAT100, is an innovative Single Axis Solar Tracker from Mahindra Susten that gives you best-in-class quality at aďŹ&#x20AC;ordable prices.

Features Plug & Track Indigenous Supply Tested Self-Lubricated Bearings Intelligent Information Interface

1625 + MWp Utility Scale Solar

482 MW MSAT100TM Solar Tracker

15,00,000 sq.ft Design Build

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5 MWp + 1MWp Thailand Project

400 + MW Solar Monitoring Portfolio

20 MWp Distributed Solar

1200 MW O&M Portfolio

450 + MW Wind Monitoring Portfolio

Email : susten.products@mahindra.com

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CREATING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

India's top Solar EPC company Mahindra Susten,is leading Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s solar revolution through innovation. With 'Sustainability'at our core, we are your partners in building a brighter future that is cleaner & greener.

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Solar Quarter â&#x20AC;¢ September 2017 4

INDIA’S MOST READ SOLAR ENERGY MAGAZINE

To book your space in the upcoming issue, please contact: Vikas Khadtale / Meghna Sharma M: +91 8850567539 / 8850563096  E: bd.firstviewgroup.com

Index

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS

Mr. Nicolas Fornage Regional Director -India & Bangladesh Agence Française de Développement (AFD)

Mr. Philippe Serres Regional Manager -South Asia Proparco

NEWS AT GLANCE � Indian

News ....................................................................... 4

� International

News .......................................................... 4

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS � A

brief history of india’s re story.............................. 11

� Drivers

of market growth and cost reduction potential for Li-ion technologies............................. 12

� Top

Mr. Andreas Liebheit President Heraeus Photovoltaics

Key Trends in the Industry observed in 2017................................................... 20-21

Mr. Dan Shugar CEO NEXTracker

Mr. Vijay Khandwekar Head of Module Mounting Structure Business, Solar Tata International

PRODUCT FEATURE � Goldi

Green Solar Module manufacturing facility – Excellence in manufacturing.................... 10

PUBLISHING: VIJAY KUMAR

EDITOR: VARUN GULATI

CIRCULATION: CHANDAN GUPTA

EDITORIAL: SANJANA KAMBLE NIKITA SALKAR NEHA BARANGALI

� Rely

on Solar’s Single axis Row tracker with 120 modules ........................................................ 22

� The

technology we collaborated for single axis tracking solution from Europe is of a single row-wise tracker ............................................................ 23

� MECO.....................................................................................

TECH INSIGHTS � Huawei

Inverters: Advanced Technology for Tomorrow’s Solar Grids................................. 30-31

ANALYSIS � The

importance of quality infrastructure across the solar value chain.......................................... 8

� Various

Instruments for India’s Clean Energy Support Measures.................................. 28-29

INFOGRAPHICS � Renewable

energy country attractiveness index....................................................... 33

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT: VIPUL GULATI, VIKAS KHADTALE, MEGHNA SHARMA PRINTING/PROCESSING VAIBHAV ENTERPRISES OFFICE: FirstView Media Ventures Pvt. Ltd. FirstView Media Ventures Pvt. Ltd. 907, NMS Titanium, Plot No. 74, Sector 15, CBD Belapur, Navi Mumbai. 400614. T: +91 22 2771 7143/50 E: info@firstviewgroup.com

Trapezoidal Metallic Roof Module Mounting Solution Best Clamping Solution for Metal Sheds

Ganges Internationale (P) Ltd. B-36, Lawrence Road, Industrial Area, New Delhi-110035 www.giplsolar.com

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Indian News TATA BLUESCOPE STEEL UNVEILS ILIOS™, A HIGH STRENGTH LIGHT WEIGHT SOLAR MODULE MOUNTING SOLUTION; AT REI � ILIOS™ from Tata BlueScope Steel will integrate LYSAGHT® solar structure mounting solutions under one roof � Solar module mounting systems will be for ground mounting and roof top applications � ILIOS™ comes with AL-ZN alloy coated high strength steel that ensures corrosion resistance and longer life � ILIOS™ Solar Module mounting structures will be available through established LYSAGHT® network Tata BlueScope Steel announces the launch of its indigenous brand ILIOS™ a Solar Module Mounting Solution to cater, to the increasing demand of the renewable energy sector in India. With ILIOS™, TBSL would be addressing the demand for quality products under its flagship brand LYSAGHT®, for both roof and ground mounting solutions. ILIOS™ comes with a wide range of sectional dimensions and thicknesses; making it suitable for every requirement. These customized mounting structures are manufactured from cold rolled Zn- Al/Zn coated steel that offers high corrosion resistance, weight optimization and quick installation. The high strength steel ensures better load bearing capacity and longer spans.

HERAEUS PHOTOVOLTAICS LAUNCHES CUSTOMER INITIATIVE TO MAKE INDIAN PHOTOVOLTAICS INDUSTRY A WORLD LEADER Heraeus Photovoltaics, the globally leading provider of technology solutions for the renewable energy industry has launched major local customer initiatives to support an efficiency boost of the Indian Photovoltaic industry and make the industry a world leader. With the establishment of dedicated local sales team in India, Heraeus will intensify its customer relationship and provide secure supply chain to its customers. Heraeus will also establish dedicated resources in its Engineering & Technology Center in Singapore, to better tailor and further speed up customization of silver pastes for Indian cell manufacturers.

Furthermore, Heraeus will offer its industry recognized cell optimization consulting to its Indian customers. The cell optimization consultancy aims to provide world class technical expertise to Indian manufacturers so that they can compete with the best in the world and turn the “Make In India” vision to reality. Heraeus is the world’s leading company in silver metallization paste and the only company in its industry offering products for all solar cell architectures and photovoltaic technologies, ranging from n-type, black silicon and PERC to double printing and knotless screen. Heraeus Photovoltaics holds several efficiency records in these technologies and is constantly increasing the efficiencies of its products with photovoltaic experts in its five R&D centers all around the world.

INDIA’S BOROSIL OPENS 2MM FULLY TEMPERED SOLAR GLASS PRODUCTION FACILITY Gujarat Borosil Ltd, a subsidiary of Borosil Glass Works, which is dedicated to the manufacture solar glass material, has this week inaugurated its 2mm tempered solar glass production line facility at its fab in Baruch, Gujarat, a state of India. The 2mm tempered glass is mainly suitable for glass-glass modules, and helps to reduce weight and increase module efficiency. Borosil claims to have the best solar glass in the world with the lowest iron content (76PPM), free from toxic materials such as antimony and arsenic, and the highest resistance to PID – tested by PI Berlin. The 2mm tempered glass is processed with the latest AEROFLAT air-cushion technology and, Borosil says, therefore shows no roller waves, white stripes nor pick-ups on processed glass.

WHY 2018 COULD BE A BREAKTHROUGH YEAR FOR ‘MADEIN-INDIA’ MODULE EXPORTS Things can change very quickly in the solar industry, and no more so than when new trade-related cases are introduced or existing ones are amended in scope. Often companies – and in particular module suppliers relying on export revenues – suddenly find themselves with a golden opportunity that was previously not in their strategies, or have barriers unlocked that remove competitors based in other countries. This article explains why ‘Made-in-India’ solar PV module manufacturers could end up seeing immediate opportunities to export to the lucrative US and European end-markets, if certain trade cases come out in their favour; and if downstream EPCs/developers and investors are convinced that the quality and reliability of the modules on offer are at the level they demand to mitigate against potential on-site underperformance and maximize investment returns.

International News GERMAN CUSTOM AUTHORITIES UNCOVERS FRAUD INVOLVING SOLAR MODULES FROM CHINA

RENEGING ON SOLAR MODULE SUPPLY CONTRACTS TO INDIA: A TIT-FOR-TAT AFFAIR

More than €30 million in anti-dumping and countervailing duties could have been circumvented by a German company importing modules from China, according to the German custom authorities.

The Indian solar industry expressed shock recently when it emerged that multiple Chinese PV manufacturers had been reneging on supply contracts to India, but it seems this strategy may have been a comeuppance for historic behaviour on the part of some Indian developers.

This is the preliminary result of an investigation that is being conducted by the Customs Office of Munich. Its investigators have carried out three arrest warrants on Monday and searched a total of 14 residential and business premises in Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg and Rhineland-Palatinate. In addition, business documents were confiscated in solarparks in Baden-Württemberg.

Not only Chinese module manufacturers but even Indian manufacturers told PV Tech that in the past, when equipment prices had dropped, some Indian developers had been more than happy to renege on contracts, asking for a better price, sometimes more than once.

USED CHINESE SOLAR PANELS SET OFF QUALITY FEARS In what has caught the Indian solar industry by surprise, used Chinese solar modules—the rectangular panels often seen on rooftops—are being sold in the domestic market at a discount. Once installed in China, they are now being offered to Indian developers, said several people aware of the development. Solar modules or panels account for nearly 60% of a solar power project’s cost. Of China’s solar panel manufacturing capacity, estimated to be around 70 gigawatts (GW) per year, the major markets are the US, India and China itself.

BEFORE WE BEGIN, A FEW POINTS TO KEEP IN MIND. Several countries were excluded from the injury finding and so will not be part of any tariffs or quotas President Trump imposes in January. Those excluded include Singapore and Canada. Mexico was found to have contributed to injury because the monetary value of imports was in excess of US$800 million in 2016. Only solar cell manufacturing really counts, due to the capital expenditure, specific facility needs, supply chain and skilled workforce. Solar cells define the origin of a module for legal purposes and the petition by Suniva asks for a US$0.40 contribution to the floor price of any module with a foreign cell.

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JINKOSOLAR TO SUPPLY SOLAR MODULES TO BROOKS SOLAR PROJECT JinkoSolar Holding Company LimitedJKS announced that its subsidiary, JinkoSolar Canada Co. Ltd., has received an order to supply 17 Megawatts (MW) solar PV modules to Borea Construction ULC. These solar modules will be used for the construction of the Brooks Solar Project located in Brooks, Alberta, in Canada. Brooks Solar Project is the first utility-scale solar project in western Canada. Borea Construction stated that more than 48,500 of JinkoSolar’s high-efficiency Mono PERC modules are going to be used for the project. Brooks Solar Project is Canada’s first solar project that utilises Mono PERC solar PV modules.

RECENT SOLAR PROJECT BY JINKOSOLAR The company has been on the receiving end of regular contracts from various clients over the last few months. Last month, JinkoSolar sold photovoltaic (PV) modules to Gransolar, a renewable energy construction company, for a PV project in Mexico. Per the terms of the agreement, JinkoSolar supplied high efficiency solar modules of 35.46 MW that will be installed on a solar plant of Mexico’s northern state of Chihuahua, located in Camargo. (Read More: JinkoSolar Holding Supplies Solar Modules to Gransolar)

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Product Feature MECO OFFER SOLAR MODULE ANALYZER, MODEL – 9018BT. The MECO Solar System Analyzer is a portable analyzer used for testing, monitoring, measuring, analyzing and troubleshooting various parameters of Solar System. Analyzer draws I-V curve with parameters such as Voc, Isc, Vpm, Ipm with efficiency (%) calculation for solar system. This analyzer comes with Remote Solar Detector for measuring and monitoring solar irradiance and temperature. The Analyzer and Remote Solar Detector is connected by Bluetooth Wireless technology (Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR Class 1). Solar analyzer has Intelligent Test Logic with no personal attendance required. Solar System Analyzer waits and tests the system until appropriate sun light Irradiance is detected. The system continuously monitors DC output of Solar System and AC power output of inverter; calculate Efficiency of DC to AC power conversion and maximum output power. The analyzer can be used for quality control at production line, warehouse or site of installation, maintenance of solar panels, identify requirement of solar power system, verify best angle of installation and for Research and Development.

and transmission up to 2000 W/m2. Solar Power Meter has Max / Min / Avg and data hold functions to indentify locations with maximum or minimum power. The good spectral range, orientation and angular detection of meter allow users to conduct the most precise quantitative measurements of Solar Power Radiation.

Features : ÂÂSolar power measurement with Orientation and Tilt angle ÂÂEasy measurement for rate of daylight penetration ÂÂAuto change for measuring range ÂÂAuto power off with disable function ÂÂInstantaneous display Ave/Min/Max values

ÂÂSolar power research for location of the solar panels or solar water heater

ÂÂ20 points memory

ÂÂPhysics and optical laboratories

ÂÂSocket of tripod mounting

ÂÂMeteorology

ÂÂMagnetic mount

ÂÂAgriculture

ÂÂBacklit LCD and 4 digits triple display

ÂÂWindows performance – calculation and verification of the heating or heat reduction caused by direct sunlight.

APPLICATIONS : ÂÂSolar radiation measurements

Analyzer is supplied with user friendly software for Data Storing and Analysis. Users can store data (.CSV/.TXT) that can be read in MS Excel and print Waveform / Graph via printer. Users can generate test report with testing data and curves of information. This report can be viewed by browser and printed out. Report can be varied according to the selected curve items (OPC/STC/OPC, STC). Other features: Max. Solar Panel Power (Pmax) search by Auto-Scan : 1000V & 12A (12000W capability), Memory Size 512KB (3980Mod, 320 REC, 3980 PWR or 3980 IRR files), Series Resistance of solar panels, with Data logging/ Open function the I-V curves of the solar system can be analyzed/ recorded for period of time (eg.60min.), conversion of I-V curve under OPC to data under Standard Test Condition (STC) based upon IEC standard, users can setup series number of solar panels so that parameters of many panels can be measured in single measurement, irradiance and temperature of the solar panels can be continuously measured, monitored and recorded, provide OPC and STC test reports for verification of solar panels performance (OK or NO OK), Large LCD backlight, AC Adaptor & Rechargeable Lithium Battery, I-V Curve with Cursor to Display each Data Point.

MECO “SOLAR POWER METER MODEL 936” MECO Solar Power Meter is a portable meter used for measuring Solar Power or Solar Irradiance. It uses High sensitivity Silicon Photodiode to measure solar power. Solar Meter can also detect Solar Tilt Angle with Orientation. This instrument is designed to measure solar power in the range from 400 to 1100 nanometers. It Measures the solar power

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Analysis THE IMPORTANCE OF QUALITY INFRASTRUCTURE ACROSS THE SOLAR VALUE CHAIN To assure the quality of products will require going beyond the performance role of equipment. It will require the implementation of QI, which will benefit PV systems across the entire value chain. Quality requires a holistic approach. The implementation of a QA framework covers not only the equipment, but the entire system, including design, installation, operation, maintenance services and disposal. Enacting proper quality schemes, as well as incorporating international practices and stakeholder consultation can impact positively on each of the stages of the technology lifecycle. A well-developed QI is essential for the sustainable growth of solar PV. At the market level, a national QI that is aligned with international best practices assures quality and safety in the sector. Implementation of QI is effected through the deployment of the elements listed in Figure below.

Figure 1.6. Elements of quality infrastructure

Figure 1.7. Quality infrastructure framework

Based on: The National Metrology Institute of Germany (Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt), 2010.

Implementing QI in the solar PV market benefits the entire value chain and involve all stakeholders, including governments, financiers, project developers, manufacturers, installers and end users. As indicated in the Figure, the elements of a QI, such as described above, and the relevant international institutes that relate to each element. Standardisation There is a core group of international standards, developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and used broadly on a global scale. In addition, there are country-specific standards that exist, most of which are based on international standards. These measures cover every aspect of the PV value chain, from the system component manufacturing phase through to the end of the technology’s life. Specific examples are featured in the table. These are the primary standards most often called upon for project approval or due diligence engineering on behalf of financiers. Further standards that govern manufacturing and testing equipment, sensors, measurements and others provide the QA foundation for product safety and performance. While not specific to PV installations, these standards are relevant and applicable to a variety of other sectors within the electrical industry.

TITLE System component manufacturing

System design and equipment selection

Installation and commissioning

Performance and operation & maintenance (O&M)

End Of Life

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International – PV Module IEC 61730 – Photovoltaic (PV) module safety qualification IEC 61215 – Crystalline silicon terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) modules – Design qualification and type approval International – Inverter IEC 62109 – Safety of power converters for use in photovoltaic power systems IEC 62093 – Balance-of-system components for photovoltaic systems The USA – PV Module UL 1703 – Safety of Safety for Flat-Plate Photovoltaic Modules and Panels IEC 61215 – Crystaline silicon terrestial photovoltaic (PV) modules – Design qualification and type approval IEC 61646 – Thin-film terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) modules - Design qualifications and type approval The USA – Inverter UL 1741 – Standard for Inverters, Converters, COntrollers and Interconnection Systems Equipment for Use With Distributed Energy Resources UL 62109 – Standard for Safety of power converters for use in photovoltaic power systems – Part 1: General requirements * China has developed its own standards International IEC 62548 – Photovoltaic (PV) arrays – Design requirements IEC RS 62738 (Technical Specification) – Design guidelines and recommendations for ground-mounted photovoltaic power plants IEC 62257 – Recommendations for small renewable energy and hybrid systems for rural electrification – Part 1: General Introduction to IEC 62257 series and rural electrification IEC 62116 – Utility-interconnected photovoltaic inverters – Test procedure of islanding prevention measures Australia AS/NZS 4777 – Grid connection of energy systems via inverters AS/NZS 3100 – Approval and test specification – General requirements for electrical equipment China GB50797-2012 – Code for design of photovoltaic power station The USA NEC Article 690 – Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems * Rollout of national standards for intallations and certification of installers International IEC 62446 – Grid connected photovoltaic systems -– Minimum requirements for system documentation,commissioning tests and inspection IEC 61724 – Photovoltaic system performance monitoring – Guidelines for measurement, data exchange and Analysis The USA ASTM E2848 - Standard Test Method for Reporting Photovoltaic Non-Concentrator System Performance International IEC 61724 – Photovoltaic system performance monitoring – Guidelines for measurement, data exchange and analysis IEC 62446-2 – Photovoltaic (PV) – Requirements for testing, documentation and maintenance The USA Standard Test Method for Reporting Photovoltaic Non-Concentrator System Performance International Decommissioning and waste management options need yet to be properly addressed in international standards. Directives: like the European Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) directive, are implemented awaiting transposition into national laws and standards.

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Product Feature GOLDI GREEN SOLAR MODULE MANUFACTURING FACILITY EXCELLENCE IN MANUFACTURING Goldi Green is an ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015 & OHSAS 18001:2007 certified Solar PV module manufacturing company having a 500MW facility and soon expanding to 1GW. We offer modules up to the range of 365Wp* using Poly & Mono crystalline solar cells. Since inception, we have always focused on delivering the best quality to our customers, resulting in which, we have earned a reputation as being quality suppliers of PV modules in India as well as across the world. The process of manufacturing a quality PV module at Goldi Green starts right from the time when raw materials are introduced onto the production line. Various quality controls are implemented before, during and after the production process.

MECHANICAL LOAD TEST AS PER IEC NORMS � To determine the ability of the module to withstand static load conditions.

IMPACT: � Goldi Green modules are able to withstand external static load factors like snow & ice loads of 5400 Pa and wind pressure of 2400 Pa from both the sides. Mechanical

The following in-house tests, conducted at our facility have been instrumental in improving the long term reliability of our modules.

GEL CONTENT TEST � Gel content of EVA is a measure of crosslinking of the polymer. � It is an important test to verify the EVA nature and process of Lamination. � EVA gel content determination is considered important for the PV module quality control along with assurance of reliability of the module up to its entire service life.

box with back sheet thus ascertaining strength between back sheet, junction box and sealant.

GROUND CONTINUITY TEST � All modules at Goldi Green undergo Ground continuity test. � Ground continuity test ensures that continuity is maintained in frame area after frame assembly. � As a result electrical continuity is maintained

Load Test

across entire frame so that at fault conditions safe grounding can be done. Ground

Our quality control team monitors each step of the production process, ensuring each module to adhere to Goldi Green’s strict quality standards. This results in consistent delivery of rated power of our modules even under severe climatic conditions.

taking care of appropriate bonding of Junction

Continuity Test

HV TEST (DCW, IR, WET LEAKAGE TEST) 1. DCW (Dielectric Current Withstand test) � Ensuring our modules have sufficient Dielectric strength to withstand high voltage conditions, along with maintaining safety during operation.

SOLDERABILITY PEEL TEST

2. IR (Insulation resistance) � Goldi Green module live parts and accessible parts are sufficiently well insulated and sufficient IR values are attained as per IEC standard. DCW

� We regularly do solderability peel test ensuring sufficient solderability strength between solar cells and ribbon to validate the process of tabbing & stringing, solar cells and interconnect materials.

& IR Test

Solderability

Test

� We at Goldi Green ensure Gel content of all EVA well above 75%.

IMPACT: � Proper adhesion around Solar cells prevents moisture and guarantees safety, reliability and performance of Solar cells continuously for long term. � Offers physical protection from weather induced and environmental damages. � Maintains stability at elevated temperatures and high UV exposure preventing yellow-browning. � Optically transparent and having low thermal resistance. Gel

3. Wet leakage test � Goldi Green modules have the best insulation which enables them to withstand moisture from rain, fog, dew and melted snow, thus preventing corrosion to the active parts of the module circuitry, along with prevention of ground fault or a safety hazard and assuring best performance under wet operating conditions. Wet

CONCLUSION: Solar energy being a long term (More than 25 years) investment, solar module reliability is one of the most important factors. Besides being tested by third parties (SGS-TUV-SAAR)

Leakage Test

& (UL), Goldi Green modules are also integrated for reliability testing as part of the design process, and the test results are used to fine- tune module quality

Content Test

during mass production. All these efforts, backed by zero tolerance for any

ADHESION PULL TEST

ROBUSTNESS OF TERMINATION TEST � Robustness of termination test is useful to check termination of cable attachment with Junction box.

IMPACT: � Te r m i n a t i o n s , attachment of terminations, and attachment of the cables to the body of our modules can withstand stresses that are likely to be applied during normal assembly or handling operations.

Robustness

Of Termination Test

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Adhesion

Test

Pull

� Test is done using an Adhesion Pull tester and it is done for both conditions EVA to Glass and EVA to back sheet.

� This ensures longevity of Goldi Green modules throughout their operational lifetime.

JB PULL TEST � Goldi Green module Junction boxes are fitted

excellence in our products and manufacturing.

QUOTES “Our solar panel installations have stood the test of time, making them a value for money investment and enhancing our customers’ faith in us”

IMPACT: � Our modules are manufactured for ruggedness ensuring strong bonding between different material layers of modules like EVA to Glass and EVA to back sheet.

compromise on quality, help us maintain and deliver

- Goldi Green Director Chetan Shah

Pull Test

“Adopting a quality focused approach has been our motto and we never compromise on it. Armed with the best manufacturing know-how that technology can offer, and combined with a team of qualified professionals, we provide modules that are resilient, wellbuilt and extremely durable giving the best power output performance compared to other reputed players” - Goldi Green Director Bharat Bhut

*For 5BB Mono PERC modules.

Solar Quarter • September 2017 12

Industry Insights Figure 14: Timeline of renewable energy policy developments until 2013 A BRIEF HISTORY OF INDIA’S RE STORY Figure 14: Timeline of renewable energy policy developments until 2013

Perform Achieve and Trade (PAT) Scheme launched

Solar Energy Corporation of India established JNNSM launched (DCR for plants with crystalline cells and modules in Phase 1)

Developments in Solar Sector Developments in Wind Sector

National Manufacturing Policy 2011 launched

Renewable Energy Certiﬁcate (REC) & Renewable Purchase Obligation(RPO) mechanism introduced

Developments in RE Sector National Clean Energy Fund established

Department of NonConventional Energy Sources (DNES) established Commission for Additional Sources of Energy (CASE) set up

First Grid Connected Wind Power Plant built in Gujarat

Solar Energy Centre established

MNES renamed as Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)

IREDA established

Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Policy launched JNNSM 2nd Phase guidelines launched (DCR for 50% of the solar plants)

Special Incentive Package Scheme launched (SIPs)

Electricity Act 2003 enacted

SIDBI established

GBI reintroduced for Wind Projects

First state government solar policy designed by Gujarat

Special Economic Zone Act (SEZ) enacted

Liberalisation of Indian Economy

AD and GBI withdrawn from Wind Projects

First Grid Connected 2 MW solarPower Plant built in West Bengal

100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) allowed in Renewable Energy

Ministry of Non-Conventional Energy Sources (MNES) established

Modiﬁed Special Incentive Scheme (M-SIS) launched (will accept applications till 2015)

Renewable Regulatory Fund (RRF) established

Maharashtra government issues ﬁrst FiT order forcogen projects based on Bagasse

100 MW

1,000 MW

10,000 MW

5,000 MW

20,000 MW

’73 ‘74 ‘75 ‘76 ‘77 ‘78 ’79 ‘80 ’81 ’82 ‘83 ‘84 ‘85 ’86 ’87 ’88 ’89 ’90 ’91 ’92 ’93 ’94 ‘95 ’96 ’96 ’97 ’98 ’99 ’00 ’01 ’02 ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 ’08 ’09 ’10 ’11 ’12 ’13 1,000 MW

Indian Wind Power Association (IWPA) established 1st

Oil Crisis

Indian Wind Turbine Manufacturers Association (IWTMA) established

2nd Oil Crisis

Kyoto Protocol Signed

Solar Energy Society of India (SESI) established

Indian Wind Energy Association (InWEA) established

Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) operational Kyoto Protocol

Indian Solar Manufacturers Association (ISMA) established Global RECESSION

World Bank’s Renewable Resources Development (RRD) project kicks o to increase the uptake of RE (1993-1999) in India

2,000 MW

GBI Scheme introduced for Wind projects (2009-2012)

Wind Independent Power Producers Association (WIPPA) established

Accelerated Depreciation for wind energy projects introduced. . 100% from 1992-2003 and 80% from 2003 to 2012

Note: The lines on the axis indicates the annual installation for wind and solar in India.Whereas the numbers in the box represent the cumulative installations of wind and solar in India

Source: CEEW analysis. Note: Additional developments took place in 2014-2016, including the announcement of India’s 175 GW renewable power target, and the release of countries INDC.

Source: CEEW analysis Note: Additional developments took place in 2014-2016, including the announcement of India’s 175 GW renewable power target, and the release of countries INDC.

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Industry Insights DRIVERS OF MARKET GROWTH AND COST REDUCTION POTENTIAL FOR LI-ION TECHNOLOGIES Li-ion technologies have benefitted from significant investment in recent years due to their versatility that enables them to be deployed in a wide variety of applications, many of which show important synergies in terms of technology development. Numerous promising research activities and a manufacturing landscape that is not just growing, but also increasing in scale mean that there will be continuing improvements in the energy, power and safety characteristics of Li-ion BES. These improvements will mean the cost competitiveness of Li-ion BES systems will continue to improve. The recent history of cost declines for Li-ion BES systems have been impressive. The battery pack costs for EVs have fallen by 73% between 2010 and 2016 as EV deployment has accelerated. Consistent time series data for Li-ion BES systems is typically not readily available, with some exceptions. Germany has been supporting the deployment of small-scale ESS since 2013 and data on the cost of residential storage systems in Germany is available from a number of sources. Figure shows the quarterly BES system prices offered by installers in Germany for Li-ion batteries since Q4 2016. Between Q4 2016 to Q1 2017 the median system price offered to German customers has fallen by around 60%, although declines have slowed in recent quarters from the very rapid declines seen in 2015. Li-ion is a relatively new technology and its cost reduction potential is large and based on a number of drivers. The main technical factors that are likely to significantly influence Li-ion technology costs are an increase in the scale of production capacity, improvements in materials, more competitive supply chains, performance improvements and the benfits of broader operating experience feeding back into product design and development. These drivers are not exclusive to Li-ion, as other storage technologies are likely to experience a similar dynamic as their deployment grows. However, with the dominance of Li-ion batteries in the EV market and the synergies in the development of Li-ion batteries for EVs and stationary applications (as seen with Tesla’s EV and stationary battery offerings), the scale of deployment that Li-ion batteries are likely to experience will be orders of magnitude higher than for other battery technologies. This doesn’t translate into order of magnitude cost savings, but this scale-up of Li-ion batteries will result in significant cost reduction opportunities.

Figure 29: Home storage lithium-ion system offers in Germany from Q4 2014 to Q1 2017

Source: International Renewable Energy Agency, based on EuPD Research, 2017.

Figure 30: Cost reduction drivers of battery electricity storage systems

Source: International Renewable Energy Agency.

Figure 31: Lithium-ion yearly production capacity expansion, 2016 and 2020 estimates

Global manufacturing for Li-ion cells has ramped up considerably, and plans to further expand capacities continue. The annual manufacturing capacity for Li-ion batteries today, for all chemistry types, may be 100 GWh or more and may possibly exceed 250 GWh by 2020. Li-ion production capacity expansion is underway from current established players and a number of new entrants, primarily driven by Chinese stakeholders. Apart from so-called megafactories, an increase from approximately 29 GWh in 2016 to 234 GWh by 2020 is envisaged (Benchmark Mineral Intelligence, 2017). Apart from the much-discussed “Gigafactory 1” (Tesla Motors/ Panasonic), all the major suppliers of Li-ion cells, including Samsung SDI, China Aviation Lithium Battery Co. Ltd., LG Chem and SK innovation, are now investing in new worldwide production capabilities. Although the bulk of the capacity has been announced in Asian facilities, a consortium of several German companies recently announced the creation of a 35 GWh per annum Li-ion cell production plant in Germany. At the pack level, new facilities and innovations continue to advance worldwide. Companies, such as Volkswagen and Daimler, are investing billions of Euros into facilities for pack assembly for stationary and mobile applications. With such an increased manufacturing landscape, continuous price declines for Liion battery cells and

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Source: International Renewable Energy Agency, based on Benchmark Mineral Intelligence, 2017.

packs will most likely continue. Learning rates based on cumulative production experience curves for Liion stationary systems have been recently estimated

at 12-16%. These estimates may not be directly comparable to learning rate estimates for electric vehicle battery technologies, which may differ from this range, depending on the research scope.

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In Conversation PROPARCO AND AGENCE FRANÇAISE DE DEVELOPPEMENT (AFD) STRENGTHEN THEIR SUPPORT TO ENERGY TRANSITION IN INDIA

MR. PHILIPPE SERRES Regional Manager for South Asia

Proparco

WHAT IS PROPARCO’S INVESTMENT MIX AND WHAT ARE THE PLANS IN TERMS OF FURTHER INVESTMENTS? During the month of September, Proparco – the private sector arm of the French Development Agency (AFD) has celebrated its 40th anniversary. Today Proparco has operations in 80 countries and our investment mix is different in each of these. Our first investment in India took place in 2009 and since then, we have made close to 30 investments representing close to EUR 380 million. In India, our mandate is to support a green and inclusive growth by stimulating job creation, developing and deepening financial markets and promoting responsible and sustainable economic models. To achieve that, we have dedicated close to 50% of our investments to green energies or energy efficiency project. The rest of our portfolio is dedicated to conventional energy, agribusiness, education, microfinance and healthcare. In terms of financial instruments, 70% of our investments are loans, 24% are equity and the rest are quasi-equity products. In line with the commitments made during the AddisAbaba Conference on Financing for Development and Paris COP21, former French President François Hollande has set up ambitious objective for the AFD Group. Proparco will play a significant role in achieving those objectives as reflected in its 20172020 strategy: to double its yearly commitment and to triple its impacts in terms of job creation, CO2 emissions reduction, access to essential goods and services for the populations and emergence of innovative solutions for a greener and more inclusive development.

PROPARCO GIVES GREAT IMPORTANCE TO THE LOCAL ECOSYSTEM IN FAVOUR OF RENEWABLE ENERGIES: POLITICAL WILLINGNESS, EXISTENCE AND QUALITY OF THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK, ROBUSTNESS OF THE PPA, OFF-TAKER PAYMENT TRACK RECORD.

In India, Proparco will continue to dedicate significant part of its investments to green energies both for production capacity increase but also to foster technologies that will help set up a favourable ecosystem for an enlarged use of renewable power. Proparco also wants to further support decentralized solutions for providing solar energy to Indian households and industries like solar-home-systems, pumps, rooftops. We are working on ways to support innovative financing schemes for solar projects, like green bonds. Our commitment to social inclusion is also evolving as

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we start exploring new financing schemes (including guarantees) and innovative sectors like fintechs. In terms of financial product, we expect that equity investments will represent a more substantial part of our investment mix.

WHAT ARE THE PARAMETERS ON WHICH PROPARCO SELECTS THE COMPANY WHILE LENDING LOANS? We always think first about impacts and then about financial risks. Therefore, before any loan or equity decision, we will always ask ourselves elemental questions such as: How many jobs are we creating? How many MW are we contributing to generate? How many women will have access to financial services? Then, as a financial institution, we need to make sure that our clients have the capacity to absorb and pay back the funding we are giving them. Therefore we run a deep financial analysis of the company, its sponsors and its business perspectives. We also conduct thorough due diligence at the environmental and social level (using the IFC Performance Standards), of the company’s governance practices and make sure that our prospect is not presenting any risk of money laundering, corruption or terrorism financing.

IN INDIA, PROPARCO’S MANDATE IS TO SUPPORT A GREEN AND INCLUSIVE GROWTH BY STIMULATING JOB CREATION, DEVELOPING AND DEEPENING FINANCIAL MARKETS AND PROMOTING RESPONSIBLE AND SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC MODELS.

AS A FINANCER, WHAT ARE SOME KEY RISKS THAT PROPARCO EVALUATES BEFORE INVESTING IN SOLAR ENERGY PROJECTS? We attach great importance to environmental and social risks and conduct thorough E&S due diligences based on the IFC’s Performance Standard. We have a dedicated E&S team but also work with external consultants. Be it for SPV or corporatelevel investments, we always look at three important elements related to sponsor’s risk: (1) expertise and credentials, (2) financial solidity, (3) compliance with our Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) requirements. Finally, we give great importance to the local ecosystem in favour of renewable energies: political willingness, existence and quality of the legal framework, robustness of the PPA, off-taker payment track record. India, which benefits from a high solar irradiation, offers a great diversity of solar energy solutions and each present a different risk profile that local banks are not yet comfortable with. While we see a lot of liquidity available for utility-scale PV projects, with competitive pricing and long maturities, we observe that a large part of the solar market remains untapped. We are exploring ways to better understand the risks related to this “untapped market” and offer adapted financial solutions. Last year for example, we closed

MR. NICOLAS FORNAGE Regional Director for India & Bangladesh

Agence Française de Développement (AFD)

an equity investment (USD 1.1m in two tranches) in Sympa Networks, a Indian solar-home-system (SHS) manufacturer and distributor to help the company roll-out its business in new states. Our long-term and patient investment will support the ambitious development strategy of the company: making electricity accessible, affordable and reliable to a million households within the next five years.

CAN YOU GIVE MORE INSIGHTS ABOUT THE LINE OF CREDIT AFD EXTENDED TO IREDA FOR FINANCING RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECTS? Following its mandate to promote sustainable and inclusive growth, AFD has placed green energy at the center of its mission since the beginning of its operations in India in 2008. AFD has provided IREDA with financial and technical support via two “green” credit lines. The first credit line financed the implementation of renewable energy projects for hydro, solar and wind power, cogeneration and biomass. This 70M € credit line was combined with a technical assistance component, including market analyses, study trips and analyses of practical cases in order to strengthen IREDA’s management of its operations. A second financial allocation of 100M€ in 2013 mainly focuses on financing solar projects. 19 renewable energy projects have been developed for a total capacity addition of 244 MW. The project helped to avoid 375 000 tons of CO2 equivalent per year.

WHAT KIND OF TECHNICAL & FINANCIAL SUPPORT AFD HAS EXTENDED TO SIDBI FOR PROMOTING ENERGY SAVINGS INVESTMENTS WITHIN THE MICRO, SMALL AND MEDIUM UNITS? HOW HAS BEEN THE PROGRESS SO FAR? SMEs have substantial potential for energy savings. However, a few years ago, return on investment for energy efficiency was not valued by industries or financial institutions, which were generally reluctant to finance this type of investment. In that context the loan allocated to SIDBI by AFD has allowed to fund investments in high energy performance equipment. Nationwide more than 400 Indian SMEs in various sectors, such as ceramics, textiles, foundry and metallurgy have received support for the implementation of actions that lead to a reduction in their energy consumption. It has thereby limited their greenhouse gas emissions, without hampering their growth. The energy saved thanks to this financing is estimated at 84.3 GWh a year. These two projects come under AFD’s green finance label SUNREF, a green credit line developed by AFD that offers banks in the South special partnership conditions to allow them to seize the opportunities of green finance. In July 2017, AFD also launched in partnership with NHB the SUNREF Housing India program to scale up the development of green housing in India.

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In Conversation HERAEUS PHOTOVOLTAICS IS DEVELOPING STRONGLY INTO A TECHNOLOGY PROVIDER FOR THE PHOTOVOLTAIC INDUSTRY In a summary, we can say that we will continue to make sure that the PV industry will have functional materials at hand enabling them to successfully transfer R&D results into mass production and at globally competitive prices. MR. ANDREAS LIEBHEIT

WHAT ARE YOUR GROWTH PLANS FOR THE INDIAN MARKET? WHAT ARE THE MILESTONES YOU WISH TO ACHIEVE BY THE END OF THIS FISCAL?

President

Heraeus Photovoltaics

First of all, our interest is to provide the Indian PV manufacturers with high efficiency functional materials. As they become competitive on an international level, we enable them to cover more and more of the Indian installation market. As our customers grow, we happily grow with them.

HERAEUS PHOTOVOLTAIC’S PRESENCE AND OFFERINGS IN INDIA? Heraeus Photovoltaics a leading provider of technology solutions for the renewable energy industry. We are the world’s leading company in silver metallization paste and the only company in its industry offering products for all solar cell architectures and photovoltaic technologies, ranging from n-type, black silicon and PERC to double printing and knotless screen. The paste is a significant product to define the efficiency of solar cells. Heraeus also offers its industry recognized cell optimization consulting and diffusion consulting to its Indian customers. Both services aim at providing world class technical expertise to Indian cell manufacturers so that they can compete with the best in the world and turn the “Make in India” vision to reality. The Heraeus group has been active in India for more than 60 years and employs around 500 people in India. In order to serve the Indian market better, we have opened a new customer office in Delhi and will provide R&D and support services through our new India and Southeast Asia Application Center in Singapore.

WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF THE RECENT DEVELOPMENTS AT YOUR ORGANISATION? Heraeus Photovoltaics is developing strongly into a technology provider for the Photovoltaic Industry. Besides our full range of high efficiency silver paste products awarded, we have increased our offerings throughout the value chain. We are also offering hardware such as Infrared Lamps and screens for the silicon solar cell production as well as consumables such as diffusion barrier coating (Heraglaze)for enhanced crucible performance in the Si ingot manufacturing. The key for our success, however, is our close relationship and on-site presence during the introduction of new products. Each solar cell production line is different and therefore, it is important that we work closely with our customers to adapt our products to their production process. Photovoltaic is a people’s business and only by working closely together, we achieve the best results.

WHAT ARE THE RECENT TECHNOLOGY ADVANCEMENTS IN YOUR SECTOR? Due to the diamond wire cutting becoming highly competitive, we see anextremely fast shift towards the mono cells. Simultaneously, we see PERC becoming the dominant cell architecture replacing BSF. HJT and bifacial cell are also gaining foothold in the market. At the paste level, we will continue to see the finger widths decrease further and the print speed increase. At module level, we see half cut cells and shingling.

In India, we are on the track to have >50% market share by the end of 2017. In 2018 and beyond, we plan to be proactive and aggressive to grow our market share even further. As the market evolves, we would announce other customer centric initiatives.

WHAT HAVE BEEN THE LATEST TRENDS IN DEMAND FOR YOUR PRODUCTS AND SERVICES IN INDIA? WHERE DO YOU SEE THE NEXT DEMAND GROWTH COMING FROM? Energy will be key for India’s future growth. You need energy for new factories and modern IT infrastructure as well as for basic needs in households and farms. Photovoltaics today, is already the cheapest form to generate electricity. It is scalable and with short planning timelines the Levelized Costs of Electricity continues to decline. Photovoltaic is easy to install and you create energy where you need it. This means that you can build micro or mini grids and don’t necessarily require major investments in transporting the energy.

over proportional. Heraeus Photovoltaics wants to be the partner of choice for the Indian PV Industry to establish market leadership and also want investors to better understand our technology and the benefits that high efficient cells bring for their return on investment. Therefore our presence in the market will build stronger ties with the Indian PV industry and our new resources in Singapore will ensure very fast application engineering services to customize our products.

IN INDIA, WE ARE ON THE TRACK TO HAVE >50% MARKET SHARE BY THE END OF 2017. IN 2018 AND BEYOND, WE PLAN TO BE PROACTIVE AND AGGRESSIVE TO GROW OUR MARKET SHARE EVEN FURTHER. AS THE MARKET EVOLVES, WE WOULD ANNOUNCE OTHER CUSTOMER CENTRIC INITIATIVES.

During the REI in Delhi we noticed very strong interest in PV from investors and consumers alike. They clearly see the economic benefit and the easy installation. The PV market in India is set to grow

HERAEUS PHOTOVOLTAICS WANTS TO BE THE PARTNER OF CHOICE FOR THE INDIAN PV INDUSTRY TO ESTABLISH MARKET LEADERSHIP AND ALSO WANT INVESTORS TO BETTER UNDERSTAND OUR TECHNOLOGY AND THE BENEFITS THAT HIGH EFFICIENT

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CELLS BRING FOR THEIR RETURN ON INVESTMENT.

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Industry Insights TOP KEY TRENDS IN THE INDUSTRY OBSERVED IN 2017 SYSTEM INTEGRATION BECOMES INCREASINGLY IMPORTANT Wind and solar together will represent more than 80% of global renewable capacity growth in the next five years. By 2022, Denmark is expected to be the world leader, with 70% of its electricity generation coming from variable renewables. In some European countries (Ireland, Germany and the United Kingdom), the share of wind and solar in total generation will exceed 25%. In China, India and Brazil, the share of variable generation is expected to double to over 10% in just five years. These trends have important implications going forward. Without a simultaneous increase in system flexibility (grid reinforcement and interconnections, storage, demand-side response and other flexible supply), variable renewables are more exposed to the risk of losing system value at increasing shares of market penetration since wholesale prices are depressed precisely when wind and solar production exceeds demand.

Still, these average costs for solar PV remain relatively high because of high FITs in China and Japan as well as relatively elevated investment costs in the United States. Meanwhile, announced auction prices indicate much steeper possible cost reductions, ranging from $30-45/MWh for solar PV (India, Mexico, United Arab Emirates, Argentina) to $35-50/MWh for onshore wind (India, Morocco, Egypt, Turkey, Chile). Auctions are also proving effective in rapidly reducing costs of offshore wind and CSP. While auction announcements (in terms of both volumes and prices) need to be verified over time, they suggest that expanding competitive pricing could result in even lower average costs in coming years.

RENEWABLE TRANSPORT AND HEAT Surging EVs to complement biofuels in renewable transport

The share of renewables in road transport is expected to increase only marginally, from over 4% in 2016 to 4.5% in 2022. Despite strongly rising sales, the share of EVs remains limited, and biofuels are still expected to represent over 90% of total renewable energy consumption in road transport by 2022. Biofuels production is expected to grow by over 16% during over the forecast period.

Market and policy frameworks need to evolve in order to cope simultaneously with multiple objectives, including providing long-term price signals to attract investment, ensuring efficient short-term electricity dispatching, pricing negative externalities and unlocking sufficient levels of flexibility as well as fostering a portfolio of dispatchable renewable technologies, including hydropower, bioenergy, geothermal and CSP.

RENEWABLE GENERATION CLOSES THE GAP WITH COAL By 2022, global renewables electricity generation is expected to grow by over one-third to over 8 000 terrawatts per hour, equal to the total power consumption of China, India and Germany combined. As a result, the share of renewables in power generation will reach 30% in 2022, up from 24% in 2016. In the next five years, growth in renewable generation will be twice as large as that of gas and coal combined. While coal remains the largest source of electricity generation in 2022, renewables halve their gap with coal, down to 17% in 2022. Despite slower capacity growth, hydropower will remain the largest source of renewable electricity generation in our forecast, followed by wind, solar PV and bioenergy.

RENEWABLE POLICIES ARE SPURRING MORE COMPETITION Renewable policies in many countries are moving from government-set tariffs to competitive auctions with long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs) for utility-scale projects. Increased competition has allowed reducing remuneration levels for solar PV and wind projects by 30-40% in just two years in some key countries such as India, Germany and Turkey. This competitive price discovery mechanism through tenders has squeezed costs along the entire value chain, thus becoming a more cost-effective policy option for governments. Auctions can also allow a better control of deployment, total incentives, and system integration aspects. Almost half of renewable electricity capacity expansion over 2017-22 is expected to be driven by competitive auctions with PPAs, compared to just over 20% in 2016.

AUCTION PRICES CONTINUE TO FALL Announced auction prices for wind and solar have continued to fall although average generation costs of new-built projects remain higher. Over the period 2017-22 global average generation costs are estimated to further decline by a quarter for utilityscale solar PV; by almost 15% for onshore wind; and by a third for offshore wind.

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Asia leads this growth due to the rising demand for transport fuel, the availability of feedstocks, and supportive government policies. Brazil makes a key contribution as a result of its efforts to increase sustainable biofuels consumption in line with its national target for 2030. In the United States, ethanol and biodiesel production also expands as a result of supportive policy frameworks. Modest growth is expected in the European Union given that the policy landscape after 2020 is not expected to encourage industry investment.

growth in renewable heat consumption, with the fastest growth in this sector seen in China, the European Union and North America. In industry, China and India see a significant growth in renewable heat consumption.

Advanced biofuels (such as cellulosic ethanol) have made important progress in recent years but are not yet competitive with petroleum products. Production is expected to almost quadruple from a low base, which is still just over 1% of total biofuels production.

China alone provides over a third of overall renewable heat growth over the outlook period, driven by strengthened targets for solar thermal, bioenergy and geothermal as well as by increasing concerns over air pollution in cities. The European Union is the second-largest growth market as a result of the binding targets of the Renewable Energy Directive, and it remains the global leader in terms of absolute renewable heat consumption.

With a more favourable market and policy landscape, biofuel production could be 13% higher. For the first time, Renewables 2017 looks at an accelerated case forecast for biofuels that assumes additional investment in new production capacity in Brazil; scaling up fuel TM distribution infrastructure in the United States; and roll-out of a blending programme in India. Still, in this accelerated case, the share of biofuels in road transport fuel demand would only reach 5% by 2022.

IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS, GROWTH IN RENEWABLE

In terms of sources, bioenergy will lead renewable heat consumption growth over the outlook period, followed by renewable electricity for heat. Global solar thermal energy consumption is also expected to increase by over a third, although growth is forecast to be slower than in previous years.

GENERATION WILL BE TWICE AS LARGE AS THAT OF GAS AND COAL COMBINED. WHILE COAL REMAINS THE LARGEST SOURCE OF ELECTRICITY GENERATION IN 2022.

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The share of EVs in renewable transport remains limited Renewables account for 30% of electricity consumption of EVs by 2022, up from 26% today. Globally, electricity consumed by EVs – including cars, two- andthree wheelers, and buses – is expected to double by 2022 but will still account for less than 1% of total electricity generation. This trend is mostly driven by the rapid growth of two- and three-wheelers in China but also results from electric cars in European markets with high shares of renewable generation. The United States represents over one-fifth of global electricity consumption in cars, but the estimated consumption of renewable electricity is expected to be smaller than in China and Europe as a result of the lower share of renewables in the electricity mix.

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Product Feature RELYON SOLAR’S SINGLE AXIS ROW TRACKER WITH 120 MODULES TECHNOLOGY SPECIFICATIONS: Tracking Mechanism

Single Axis Row Tracker

Maximum No of Modules on 100-120 Nos ; customisation based on plot area and design voltage is a Single Tracker possible. Tracking Range

1100 (+/- 550) adaptable

Tracking Algorithm

Astronomical Algorithm

Stowing Mechanism

Safety stowing position max 3.5 min with self contained battery backup

Power Backup

Each row is independently operated and backed by VRLA batteries

Source of Power

Auxillary power from module assembly or separate auxiliary source of 50W panel will be provide with each tracker

Annual Power Consumption

70 kWh/tracker unit

Nigh Stowing Mode

Tracker will be at safe position during Night

Cleaning Mode

Can be set at convenient position for cleaning

System Voltage

Designed for 1000 V or 1500 V

Backtracking

Independent backtracking for each row

Ground Slope

Compatible upto 100 N-S Gradient

Wind design

Designed to withstand 150 KMPH wind speed, customization is possible for higher wind zones

Structure Material

MS – Hot Dip Galvanized

Bearings

High durability, frictionless, open bearing with high life . Simple replacement without any plant shut down.

Drive System

Robust 3 stage reduction gearbox with anti roll locking . with 24 V BLDC motors ( 120 W )

Controller Type

ARM based Controller with in-built tilt sensor.

Controlling Mechanism

Master/Slave type

Communication Type

RS-485 , Ethernet

Installation Procedure

Rapid on-site installation, no onsite welding required.

Performance Monitoring

Remote monitoring with SCADA is possible

Warranty

5 Years and extendable up to 10 Years

TECHNOLOGY ADVANCEMENTS: � Double portrait modules on a single tracker. � 120 modules on a single tracker unit, suitable for 1500 V Solar Plant. � Tracker installation is possible on 150 North-South Slope. � Each row can be back-tracked independently RelyOn Solar Pvt Limited is one of the pioneers of solar industry in India. Established in 2010 the company has a technology focus and innovation is a part of its DNA. In the span of 7 years RelyOn Solar has executed over 1600 distributed solar power generation projects all over India and abroad, ranging from a few KW to multi MW utility scale projects. It has continuously strived to offer innovative solutions and has often developed specific products and technologies to provide its projects a competitive edge. RelyOn Solar despite being a medium size company, invests very heavily in R&D and truly embodies the “Make in India” spirit. Since its inception, every year Relyon Solar has introduced new products for the solar market, like Off Grid Solar inverters, Sol-Grid Hybrid DG controllers, Reverse power protection systems, Data Logger, Carbon Brushless DC pumps, Single axis row trackers, Gridtie inverters, Advance storage systems. It has a long pipeline of new products and product launches planned every six months. Relyon Solar has won

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multiple awards in India an abroad for its products and projects. In April 2017, Relyon Solar launched its Single Axis row tracker for the utility scale solar market. The unique feature of this product is that, it is a completely indigenous product with no imported components and is the only Indian tracker which allows two panels in portrait mode thereby accommodating the highest number of panels (upto 120 panels) per row. This allows for better land coverage and much lesser civil works allowing faster installation. It requires less than 300 piles per MW.

The tracker has a very robust gearbox and DC motor based design for each row which allows adaptive backtracking for individual row, thereby increasing the output. The robust design also improves the MTBF and MTTR parameters for the plant, making plant maintenance very easy and quick. The key components are virtually maintenance free. The lack of connecting links between rows allows easy cleaning of panels by mechanized means. It also allows solar farming, as the row pitch is large enough to allow farm equipment, like tractors and tillers and small vehicles to move in between rows. The independently powered row design also allows installation on slopes and can accommodate the land contours much better than block trackers. The row design is flexible enough to accommodate anywhere from 80 to 120 panels per row to suit the plant design based on components, voltages and shape of land parcel. It also obviates the need to stop the complete plant tracking, as individual row can be taken for maintenance separately, if need be. The specially designed bearing system is flexible enough to allow bearing change during operation, eliminating the need to stop the plant. The astronomical algorithm allows tracking of true sun position, thereby significantly improving the output during the day, particularly during early mornings and late evenings and provides for a much more uniform energy output compared to other type of trackers and fixed /seasonal tilt systems. With the dramatic reduction in solar tariffs in the various solar auctions, today viability of projects is dependent upon increasing the output of the plant. With the solar module prices bottoming out and even strengthening, solar trackers particularly flexible solutions like Relyon Solar Single Axis independent row tracker provide a means to project developers to improve their project returns, reduce their payback times and lower the LCOE. RelyOn Solar Single axis tracker offers a net benefit of 7-13% in generation and 3-5% in project IRR, after considering incremental tracker costs. It is product designed with the user in mind from ground up. With a presence across 15 states in India, Relyon Solar has the service and support network to provide its tracker customers the required technical assistance.

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Product Feature ACHIEVING HIGHER GROUND COVERAGE RATIO THROUGH SHORTER SINGLE ROW SINGLE AXIS TECHNOLOGY SunMount Engineering, a division of Waaree Energies Limited is an expert in the field of Module Mounting Structures and DC package providing turnkey solutions to leading developers and EPC companies. For Single-axis tracking solution, we have a strategic technical partnership with an European company pioneering in the tracking solution and delivering for the past 9 years and has a rich experience of commissioning of 100MW in the Indian market in states of Telangana and Karnataka. Our partner’s rich experience of 9 years provides great insights to design the components with a longer life and a reduced cost of O&M, puts us well positioned from others to cater to the growing solar tracker market which is also been aided by the high module prices and greater acceptability by the developers. Also with the increasing order book we are developing our team to cater for the larger volumes of projects.

PRODUCT INTRODUCTION The single axis tracking technology which enables to provide a higher output without going for a higher DC capacity by eliminating the initial loss in generation in the morning and in the evening from a fixed-tilt plant as depicted below. Also the technology leads to grid stability with a consistent generation for a longer time unlike a peak generation as in the fixed tilt. The technology we collaborated for single axis tracking solution from Europe is of a single row-wise tracker with a string size of 19-30 modules per table. The major advantage for such a technology is that it easily adapts to all shapes of land, contour and slopes and requires much less land to install compared to other trackers in

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the market. Design is simple and easy to manufacture in India. All the components are similar to the structures the vendors are already well versed with. Execution is also easy due to modular design. In short the SAT we propose is faster to deploy and easy to scale up.

TECHNOLOGY SPECIFICATIONS The Single Axis Tracker System (SATS) developed under the collaboration of the SB Solar, Italy and SunMount Engineering, India can be installed according to the following technical features. ÂÂThe degree of tracking shall be -45 degree to +45 degree. ÂÂThe tracker is designed for an operational wind speed of 25m/s at 45degrees and 44m/s at stow position. In case the wind speed is above 25m/s during operation, the tracker will backtrack to stow position in 16 seconds. ÂÂThe single row technology which we adapt allows handling a ground undulation along the length of the table of 500mm or 1 in 40 giving a high ground coverage ratio (35% to 50%) and completely reducing the cost & time of land grading and enables for a faster deployment. ÂÂThe control system deployed in the field runs on a robust software with a self-tracking capability and a periodical sync with the central SCADA stationed in the Inverter Control Room. ÂÂThe linear actuator designed is free from any maintenance and is stationed in a fully enclosed IP 65 cabinet ÂÂThe entire system is integrated with a very efficient backtracking algorithm which optimises the yield by shade avoidance between the rows.

TECHNOLOGY ADVANCEMENTS As Indian market already experienced a considerable percentage of trackers installation and the developers are very well aware of the technology with self-powered control systems and a seamless wireless communication with the SCADA has become an industry standard. Apart from these, the use of single-axis tracking technology in combination with a String Inverter* design rather than a Central Inverter design proved to provide a particular advantage in terms of higher generation

TARGETED/ BENEFITTED CUSTOMER SEGMENT With the modules prices very high, this creates a great opportunity to developers to explore single-axis tracking technology which would give a higher output without going for a higher DC capacity. While Indian market already experienced a considerable percentage of trackers installation but one has to take particular care while choosing the technology about the O&M costs incurred to provide the committed uptime guarantee of availability of the system. If the tracking technology has a higher O&M costs it would bring down the overall advantage of a higher generation from the tracking system.

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In Conversation TO DATE, IN INDIA THE COMPANY HAS DELIVERED OVER 1GW OF SOLAR TRACKER PRODUCT TO SEVEN CLIENTS ON 21 SOLAR FARM PROJECTS continuously refine the tracking algorithm of each individual solar array in response to existing site and weather conditions. MR. DAN SHUGAR CEO

NEXTracker

LET’S BEGIN WITH A GLIMPSE OF YOUR COMPANY’S PRESENCE AND OFFERINGS IN INDIA? NEXTracker entered India two years ago and over the course of two years, NEXTracker has witnessed tremendous growth in the Indian market. To date, in India the company has delivered over 1GW of solar tracker product to seven clients on 21 solar farm projects spread over six states. India is currently among top 5 markets for the company globally. We plan on bidding on 2GW of projects in India in the mid-term. We have recently expanded our Hyderabad office and leadership capabilities, serving India and beyond, with more than 700 staff members since its establishment in 2016. In addition, in India we have a new tube manufacturing line currently under construction that will be operational later this year, accelerating project velocity and lowering logistics costs for projects. Given that the Government has emphasized on the deployment of solar energy to meet its sustainability goals, there is a significant demand for smart tracking systems in India and this demand is only expected to grow. Our collaboration with our customers is for the long term, demonstrated by incorporating feedback from customers into our product and adapting our technology to local India conditions – from market and geotechnical standpoints. Recently, NEXTracker partnered with Apollo steel to manufacture additional structural components of its solar tracking systems locally by 80%, by volume and weight of its final product which, has helped in reducing shipment time as much as 50%, with significant reductions in logistics costs. NEXTracker also partnered with CleanMax Solar, India’s largest solar developer for corporate consumers, to supply 30 MW of its advanced NX Horizon single-axis trackers which delivers energy to a major IT consumer in Chennai. With this, the NEXTracker system is currently generating 15% more energy over the standard ﬁxed-tilt systems. In the past, the company has supplied to India’s largest solar tracker project for 105 MW Adani Power Plant in Punjab. NEXTracker’s success in the region can be attributed to the high-quality design, reliable performance, and an exceptional level of service and relationshipbuilding with local and international partners. In addition, the company’s business strategies for India has been closely aligned with Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s National Solar Mission and Make in India program. With this, the company aims to expand its manufacturing capability and is currently, working on number of new projects.

WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF THE RECENT DEVELOPMENTS AT YOUR ORGANISATION? Earlier this year, NEXTracker™ launched ‘TrueCapture’, a first-of-its-kind intelligent, self-adjusting tracker control system for solar power plants at Intersolar, North America. The technology is designed to

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Currently, NEXTracker™ has two field trials going on in India to test the diffuse light tracking feature of TrueCapture. With this project, the site has the potential to gain an additional energy yield of 6% yearly for IPPs and plant owners, which is in addition to the 15-25% additional gain from using NEXTracker’s smart solar tracker over fixed tilt application. One of these field trials is being undertaken at CleanMax Solar. Recently, NEXTracker™ reached an industry-first milestone of ten gigawatts (10 GW) of trackers sold to hundreds of projects across USA, India, Europe, China, Latin America, and Australia. NEXTracker has become the solar tracker market share leader for the second consecutive year and the company aims to continue increasing global demand for smart tracking systems.

WHAT INNOVATIONS HAVE BEEN MADE IN THE RECENT YEARS IN THE TRACKING INDUSTRY? HOW FAR HAS THIS INDUSTRY COME FROM ITS INITIAL YEARS? In 2014, NEXTracker™ pioneered the independent row tracker, NX Horizon™, which is the most advanced single-axis horizontal tracker in the market that has helped in tracking the sun more efficiently. Each tracker row tracker includes a small solar panel, which enables it to be self-powered from the sun that does not enforce any parasitic load. In general, the selfpowered design allowed for independent rows; this benefits plant owners as it helps in maximizing yield, reducing operations and maintenance (O&M) in terms of panel cleaning and vegetation management as well as OPEX costs, considerably. Industry reports suggest that global solar trackers market with an annual installed capacity of 1188.5 MW in 2010, is expected to reach an installed capacity of 6998.8 MW by 2020. In India, the studies state that during FY 2015 the tracker installations went beyond the fixed requirements, leading to an increase in revenue generation up to 4 times. On account of the growing green technology, experts estimate that solar tracker market will experience further significant growth that would ultimately help generate more energy and stable power output, which a fixed system would not be able to deliver. The rapid development of this sector can also be attributed to the innovations in energy yield enhancement technologies and software solutions, together with energy storage portfolio.

PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOUR SOFTWARE TECHNOLOGIES FOR SOLAR TRACKERS. NEXTracker’s smart, connected solar tracker currently leads with a 30% market share around the world. (GTM, IHS, BNEF, 2017). NEXTracker’s digital O&M™ platform enables to continuously monitor the health and performance of both individual tracker components as well as the overall system operation. The carefully integrated in-house design of the controller hardware, firmware, software and drive systems, helps to keep cost and complexity low while still delivering full value to operators and owners. The company believes that smart, detailed, tireless assistance would be invaluable to customers, as solar plants are growing in number and size. Moreover, the data-driven creation of value has led to improved products, reduced costs, increased uptime and system reliability, and the delivery of innovative features and services, such as NEXTracker’s new TrueCapture energy yield enhancement technology.

Beyond monitoring and diagnostics, NEXTracker has been working on improving systems performance by employing machine learning, predictive modeling and other technologies. Accumulated data sets and advanced techniques are used to explore innovative control approaches and to drive product enhancements. Once the technology is developed, firmware upgrades would be delivered over-the-air via the bidirectional cloud-based data platform to upgrade entire fleets, notwithstanding the size. For high-quality system integration and user interactivity, NEXTracker is currently working with supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems for developing interfaces – in terms of transparency, accessibility, and security.

WHAT ARE YOUR VIEWS ON COST EFFECTIVENESS OF SOLAR TRACKERS. Given that solar installations entail huge investments, prudent investors are looking to maximize financial returns and optimize plant performance. Reduction in operations and maintenance (O&M) costs and the overall OPEX cost becomes critical for developers. With this, the market for Single-axis trackers (SATs) have gained momentum as a result of the higher energy yield they produce compared to traditional fixed-tilt systems. The economics have proven themselves and the world over, with more than 80% of ground mount utility scale and distributed generation projects being utilised for single axis trackers now.

WHAT TECHNOLOGICAL BREAKTHROUGHS CAN WE EXPECT FROM YOUR COMPANY IN THE COMING YEARS? NEXTracker is continuously coming up with new innovations to provide the best solutions to the global solar market. For NEXTracker, it is all about extending the PV curve with storage. Currently, the company has a storage portfolio that includes both Lithium Ion and Vanadium flow batteries. While lithium ion-based battery systems have received the lion’s share of energy storage news, vanadium flow batteries (VFBs) are not only cost-effective with multi-gigawatt-scale potential, they pair well and can be intelligently integrated with solar power plants. NEXTracker launched an innovative solar plus energystorage solution for U.S. and international markets. NX Fusion Plus integrates the latest, best-in-class solar tracker, battery, inverter, and software to deliver better return on investment to owners of solar power plants. By incorporating battery storage technology into its product, NEXTracker is further increasing the energy output and duration of solar power plants, just as tracking technology did for fixed-tilt solar applications. NEXTracker’s Standard Container Platform (SCP) for energy storage applications is the most flexible and reliable solution on the market today, providing best-in-class safety features for the most demanding environmental conditions. Supporting multiple battery technologies, SCP provides unprecedented configurability for a wide range of storage applications and project sizes. Engineered to maximize energy and power density in a standardized package, SCP reduces balance of system (BOS) costs from design through installation and operation. NEXTracker SCP applies best practices for lean and robust system integration to drive quality, flexibility and efficiency while reducing BOS and operating costs. By offering a storage portfolio to our customers, we can better meet the range of their requirements and project site needs.

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In Conversation WE HAVE GAINED A SIGNIFICANT SHARE OF THE INDIAN SOLAR MARKET WITH CUMULATIVE INSTALLATIONS OF CLOSE TO 1200 MWP investments are much lower than a tracking solution and energy generation is significantly augmented with the use of automated cleaning systems.

MR. VIJAY KHANDWEKAR Head of Module Mounting Structure Business, Solar

Tata International

LET’S BEGIN WITH A GLIMPSE OF YOUR COMPANY’S PRESENCE AND OFFERINGS IN INDIA? Tata International specializes in module mounting structures & DC package solutions for solar PV power plants, with scope of work ranging from design, supply and installation of steel mounting structures and associated DC services. We commenced setting up of module mounting systems for solar projects in 2012 to address the increased demand for solar power.

Further, we believe certain hybrid models such as a mix of fixed structures with trackers might be the trend setter in the future which enable create a balance between the burden of initial capex and minimizing Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE).

WHAT ARE YOUR GROWTH PLANS FOR THE INDIAN MARKET? WHAT ARE THE MILESTONES YOU WISH TO ACHIEVE BY THE END OF THIS FISCAL? Our growth plan for the Indian market is to commission at least 500 MWp of solar projects in the current financial year. We also have plans of foraying into the international market (especially the MENA region) this year, starting off with some small projects to begin with. We are also actively entering into the rooftop market space as we feel there is lot of potential that can be successfully tapped into. Idea is to continue growing in the utility scale solar market in India while diversifying into international markets and other sectors such as rooftop space.

WHAT HAVE BEEN THE LATEST TRENDS IN DEMAND FOR YOUR PRODUCTS & SERVICES IN INDIA? WHERE DO YOU SEE THE NEXT DEMAND GROWTH COMING FROM? As mentioned, with continuously dipping solar tariffs, cost and margin pressure would continue to increase across the value chain. This would require solar solution providers to continually innovate to either reduce cost of investment through innovative cost effective solutions or by maximizing the returns through new technologies that augment energy generation. Further, the average size of project is increasing which provides solution providers better bargaining power and economies of scale to optimize costs across the value chain. It would be interesting to watch how module prices pan out in the future as that would be the key determinant of the health and growth of the rest of the value chain. To summarize, technology advancements and volume growth would be the key growth drivers in the sector.

We manufacture economical steel module mounting structures for the solar PV industry, underwritten by our strong design and technical capabilities. In a short span of time, we have gained a significant share of the Indian solar market with cumulative installations of close to 1200 MWp till date. With an unmatched advantage of global reach backed by engineering excellence, Tata International is today the ‘preferred partner’ in progress for turn-key solar projects. Tata International Solar division caters primarily to utility scale solar projects, offering Fixed / Adjustable tilt mounting structures and Sun tracking package solutions.

WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF THE RECENT DEVELOPMENTS AT YOUR ORGANIZATION? Recent developments at our organization include successful commissioning of close to 350 MWp in FY17, with delivery of one of the largest solar projects since the inception of this business of 100 MWp capacity. We have also partnered with one of India’s leading sun tracking solution provider, Scorpius. Tata International would be the implementation partner for Scorpius tracker solutions. Our target this year is to successfully commission 500 MWp solar projects and we are confident of achieving this target. We are also in the process of tapping the potential of the rooftop solar market this year.

TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE RECENT TECHNOLOGY ADVANCEMENTS IN YOUR SECTOR? The ever decreasing solar tariffs exert immense cost and margin pressures across the solar value chain. This requires solar companies to continually innovate to maximize their returns on investment, by either reducing the cost of investment through innovative cost effective solutions or by maximizing the returns through new technologies that augment energy generation. Tracker solutions are increasingly becoming popular in the sector, especially for projects in South India where relatively lower solar irradiation necessitate use of tracking technology to optimize energy generation and the project’s return on investment. The other solution which is also getting traction in the industry is fixed module mounting structures with cleaning systems. This solution is very attractive as the initial

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Analysis

Types of instrument

VARIOUS INSTRUMENTS FOR INDIA’S CLEAN ENERGY SUPPORT MEASURES Instrument

Capacity addition/ power production

Duration/ tenure

Interest rates/ cost of capital

Potential to FiTs

drive renewable energy

10-25 years

Increased investor conﬁdence due to assured revenue stream (assumes robust contracts)

Reduces cost of renewable power for customers

In India: leverages existing unallocated capacity (successfully employed in Phase 1 of JNNSM) .

Possibly can reduce the cost of capital by reducing risk premium

Increases investor conﬁdence by covering for defaults by distribution companies

In India: Being used in wind and grid connected roof top solar sector in India

In Denmark and Germany: given to renewable energy sector

addition

Power bundling

Payment Security Mechanism

Generally, for 25 years

Contingent upon availability of unallocated power

For 4-10 years High potential Generation in India; Need to incentivise Based for certainty power Incentive during contract production period Can help leverage capacity Priority beyond the dispatch contracted amount Can foster growth of Remuneration market as it allows passing rates the costs to consumers

Priority sector lending

Multilateral funds

Intended to grid capacity addition

Tied support which can Bilateral funds increase capacity addition

Debt

Credit guarantees

Incentivises easy access to ﬁnance

Can decrease capital costs by reducing storage costs

Increased availability of funds at lower costs (earmarked funds)

addition by

In India: exists in conventional power sector; In US, United Kingdom (UK): being used for renewable energy.

In Germany: promotes Increased opportunity growth of renewable to recoup investments sector on market principles

In India: Available for .

Increased risks Longer term Lower interest related to technology Consortium lending loans (up to 18 rates (10.7-12%) choice; enhanced due years) diligence Did not reduce In India: for small and capital cost; Can increase investor medium industries, for mechanism conﬁdence exports, etc. adds to borrowing cost

Can boost

Infrastructure

In EU countries and US: being used for renewable energy.

Capacity building; Longer term Lower interest market strengthening Consortium lending loans (up to 18 rates (10.7-12%) (e.g. R&D); enhanced years) due diligence

Limited impact Up to loan duration

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Globally: standard global practice in power sector;

Increased investor conﬁdence due to investment protection and equal access to energy market

capacity

PPAs

Risk mitigation

Leveraging existing government programmes or market instruments

Longer term

Lower interest

In India: IDF scheme; L&T30 Solar Quarter • September 2017 28 Infra debt fund; tax free

Leveraging existing

instrument

Types of

Capacity Instrument

addition/

Duration/

Interest rates/

power

tenure

cost of capital

government

Risk mitigation

programmes or market instruments

production

Debt

Can boost Infrastructure Debt Funds

capacity addition by making cheap

In India: IDF scheme; L&T Longer term

Lower interest

loans

rates

Infra debt fund; tax free

infrastructure bonds (by IIFCL)

funds available Can promote Increased

capacity

access to

addition by Green Bonds

release of

Longer tenure

capital pools;

equity capital

low cost of

and reﬁnance

funds

Globally: Bonds by World

Bank, IFC, ADB

option Can help in scaling up Securitisation

capacity through access to public

Can help early

capital and

Spreads risk widely

market including power

exit of initial

increased

and increases investor

sector;

investors

access to

conﬁdence

SolarCity (California)

capital pools

market

Green Banks

Focused on

Low cost

renewable

ﬁnance (as it

power capacity

Direct ﬁnancial transfers

Viability Gap Funding

Central Development Fund

Central fund to spur renewable energy investment in China

obtains low cost capital)

addition Alternative to power bundling mechanism; impact yet unknown

In India: General securities

Lower cost of

Disbursal over 5-year duration

issued its ﬁrst solar IPO Acts to reduce risk perception amongst investors

Reduced cost of capital due to upfront subsidy disbursal

Being implemented in states in the US

In India: VGF scheme for PPP in infrastructure, New manufacturing policy

Can be used for multiple purposes

In India: NCEF yet to gain major traction

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Tech Insights HUAWEI INVERTERS: ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY FOR TOMORROW’S SOLAR GRIDS ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY FROM HUAWEI TO ENSURE A BETTER HARMONIC SUPPRESSION The penetration of grid connected solar energy systems has been increasing in the Indian grids, from utility scale projects to solar-powered car ports for electric vehicles. Advanced smart energy systems are today the key for next generation energy distribution grids which will see a greater input of variable power from renewable energy. With a rapid growth in variety, output and size of solar energy projects, generating power at regulated frequency and/or voltage for different load sizes, there is a growing emphasis on quality of power being generated. New demands for a) cost and size reduction, b) performance, revenue and quality improvement c) flexibility on power management and d) stricter regulations are bringing in rapid pace of advancements in grid-interface technologies such as solar inverters.

HOW HARMONICS IMPACT POWER QUALITY Harmonics are integer multiples of the fundamental signal (voltage or current at 50 or 60 Hz) and have short and long term effects on grids and grid connected electronics and power electronics equipment such as malfunction, failure and losses. These reduce reliability, lifetime and efficiency of the electricity networks. Main drawbacks of power electronics systems are low (below 2 kHz) and/or high (above 2 kHz) frequency harmonics emissions. As we know, in an electric power system, nonlinear electric load will lead to harmonic voltage

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and currents. Harmonics in the power grid are a frequent cause of power quality problems. They increase the current and heating in the connected devices and conductors, and also produce harmonic voltage drops in the grid short-circuit resistance, so as to influence the voltage wave shape. The bigger the absolute value of harmonic current, the greater its influence to grid voltage distortion. Reduction of current and voltage harmonics is considered desirable. According to IEC61727 standard, total harmonic current distortion should be less than 5% at rated inverter output. And in the solar industry most of the inverter vendors claim in their data sheet that the Total Harmonics is less than 3%。

REDUCING HARMONICS RISKS USING HUAWEI STRING INVERTER TECHNOLOGY The issue of harmonic resonance is often overlooked while developing large and small scale solar power plants. Many times, these concerns are recognized only when construction of the projects are nearing completion. Due to this, the commercial operation if often delayed till harmonic problems are resolved placing the project developers under significant financial risk. Moreover, delayed recognition of the problems may lead to sub-optimal and high-cost solutions. So, how can you suppress the harmonics to achieve a higher quality grids as per the standards? Huawei string inverters absorb and apply advance technologies to ensure a better performance in harmonic control. Here’s a look into how they achieve this.

(1) Intelligent Algorithms: From inverter algorithm, the output voltage is the sine wave. When there is any distortion to output PWM wave, inverter output harmonic wave and control will be influenced. Increase switching frequency and the number of output PWM level can reduce the distortion rate of PWM wave. The string inverter with high switching frequency and three-level topology will be better than the central inverter with low switching frequency and two-level topology. (2) Higher Switching Frequency: The higher the switching frequency, the broader the control bandwidth and better the control on a wide range of current harmonic wave. To ensure the stability, the control bandwidth of the inverter is normally around 1/10 of its switching frequency. The switching frequency of string inverter (16 kHz) is much higher than that of central inverter (3 kHz for two-level topology inverter, 9 kHz for three-level topology inverter). The broader the control width, the better to control lower-order harmonic wave. (3) Cutting Edge Filter Technology: The high frequency part in the current out of the bandwidth should be filtered by the inverter filter. Normally, the string inverter uses LCL filter featured with strong derating capability of high frequency harmonic wave and little influenced by on-grid resistance. Central inverters use LC filter instead to cut down the cost, which will influence the performance. (4) Active Filter Mode: In one PV array, multiple string inverters are at different distances to the step-up transformer, so the line resistance will

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be different. The line resistance can equivalently change the LC inductance in LCL filter and the different filter parameter will change the phase of harmonic wave. When multiple inverters are parallel connected, the harmonic wave can be cancelled because of different phase so as to reduce the total harmonic wave. Except the passive harmonic wave cancellation, Huawei develops active filter mode which can actively reduce the harmonic wave for a smarter grid adaption.

HUAWEI: MEETING INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS ON HARMONICS So why do developers overlook the harmonic impacts of wind and solar plants? One of the primary reasons is that there exist multiple IEEE and IEC standards which stipulate strict limits on the amount of harmonic currents that can be produced by individual solar inverters. Globally, it is mandatory for inverter vendors to ensure that the harmonic injection at the device terminals is within prescribed limits. However, what is often overlooked is the fact that limiting the harmonic current injection at device terminals is not the same as limiting harmonics on the entire project output. As mentioned in the IEC61727 standard, testing harmonics is very problematic, since voltage distortion may lead to enhanced current distortion. The harmonic current injection should be exclusive of any harmonic currents due to voltage distortion present in the utility grid without the PV system connected. Type tested inverters meeting the above requirements should be deemed to comply without further testing. To verify THD when SUN2000 inverter connected to grid, Huawei did both single THD test (as per IEC61727) and multi THD test ongrid system.

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THE HUAWEI EXPERIENCE: FEELING THE DIFFERENCE ON A 50MW INDIAN PROJECT On 23th August, an onsite test of harmonic waves was conducted on an Uttar Pradesh 50MW plant, India, witnessed by one of the biggest developers in south India and one of the major EPCs in New Delhi. Below is the overview of the plant: Test PV Plant

Uttar Pradesh 50MW PV Plant

Inverter Mode

SUN200043KTL

Supplier

Huawei

Test type

Joint Test with NLC

Test Time

2017/8/23

Test Object

5MW Block (116 Pcs Inverters)

Test Item

Current Harmonic

COD

10th Jun. 2017

Test device

Electric Quality Analyzer- Fluke 435-II

Test Result

Current i430-FLEXIprobe TF

The THD does not exceed the threshold. The inverters comply with standard IEC 61727.

The test results are shown as the chart below: The power load ratio during the test period are shown as below: The field test curve shows that inverter THDi is ＜2%, much lower than IEC61727 standard.

SO WHY DO HUAWEI INVERTERS STAND OUT? Huawei communication network and energy equipment are used in more than 170 counties and regions, serving over one-third of the world’s population. Huawei continuously innovates and accumulates experience in system solutions, circuit topology, control algorithms, and structural design, and has realized the perfect integration of digital

information technology and power electronic technology. As the representative of cross-domain integration, Huawei builds the smart PV solution that features “higher yields, smart O&M, safe & reliable” with the innovative ideology of simple, full digital, and global automatic operation. Huawei’s PV plants have no redundant systems, like inverter rooms and DC solar junction boxes (SJBs), or vulnerable components, such as fuses and external fans, so that the delivery of simplified and standard solutions is achieved. All the components are able to adapt to various harsh environments, including high temperature, high humidity, dusty wind, salt mist and high altitude. Zero-touch maintenance for 25 years, guarantee the reliable operation, as well as simpler construction and O&M help PV plant owners and operators maximize their ROI. Huawei string inverters adopt innovative algorithms and HiSilicon-developed chip technologies and can actively adapt to power grid changes by leveraging its advantages including high-speed processing capability, high sampling and control frequency, and control algorithms such as an advanced harmonic suppression algorithm, along with the with high control bandwidth, excellent LCL filter performance. It is worth mentioning that the SUN2000 can intelligently adapt to various power grids even in parallel mode, and can smooth the total harmonic along with the produced power that will be exported to the power grid. Compared with other central and string inverters that do not support the intelligent algorithm, Huawei string inverters better adapt to the various harsh working conditions of different power grids all over the world, help PV plants obtain better grid-connection performance, and better improve the grid stability and security. The success of this test well proves the leadership of Huawei string inverter and smart PV solution. A PV plant with Huawei string inverters is grid friendly and a long-term stable performance.

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Infographics Infographics

The second contract for difference (CfD) auction awarded over 3GW offshore wind at the historically low price of £57.50/MWh (US$77.9/MWh) delivered in 2022-23, undercutting 2015 prices by half and Hinkley Point C nuclear CfD by almost 40%.

Rank

Portugal

Egypt

Rank

Italy

Brazil

Rank

Turkey

Denmark

Rank

Morocco

Canada

Rank

Argentina

United Kingdom

Rank

Mexico

Chile

Rank

Japan

France

Rank

Australia

Germany

Rank

United States

China

India

Rank

Netherlands

October 2017

A decline in new investment in renewables this year due to grid overcapacity. However, a north-south link due in late 2017 should help settle the market.

PV capacity rose 21GW over the past six months while wind curtailment fell 7% over a year. New targets have set to cancel or defer 106GW of coal power, while Beijing mulls the deadline for a future ban on internal combustion engine sales.

Latest tender awarded 1GW to onshore wind at 50% below the ceiling price, drawing international interest from major manufacturers. PV grew three-fold in a year to 1.5GW.

Feed-in tariff (FiT) system has resulted in 1GW PV under construction, with more projected for next year under a potential auction program.

10 | recai | October 2017

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AZISINDIA2017_Solar Quarter_124,46x203,2_national.qxp_AZISINDIA2017_Solar Quarter_124,46x203,2 AZISINDIA2017_Solar Quarter_124,46x203,2_national.qxp_AZISINDIA2017_Solar Quarter_124,46x203,2

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