SE May- June 2016

SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

Volume III, Issue III

Pages 56

`200

ISSN 2348-5027

18- 20 May 2016, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, India

INDIA POISED FOR RAPID GROWTH IN

ENERGY STORAGE Smart Lighting: An Integral Part of Smart Cities p44

Green Banks: New Investment Facilities for Clean Energy Deployment p30

PRODUCT UPDATES IBC SOLAR, BORG ENERGY MECO, SOLARMAX GROUP SMA, STECA SOLAR ANALOG DEVICES

Micro-grids: Changing the Energy Landscape p42 Water free PV Panel Cleaning: Better for Everyone p48

visit www.supersmartenergy.com for latest updates

Complete Renewable Energy Intelligence

SmartEnergy Complete Renewable Energy Intelligence

Editor Santosh Khadtare santosh@supersmartenergy.com

Associate Editor Anisha Ganguli EDITORIAL ADVISER Pragya Sharma Editorial Co-ordinator Varsha Editorial Consultant Dr. Abhimanyu Detha Graphic Designer D. Vaidya Advertising & Marketing Head- Marketing & Business Development Sapna K sapna.smartenergy@gmail.com

Chief Executive Officer Rahul Raj Chandra Support Team Sunil Pawar Bharti Shetty

Editor's Note India accounts for 5GW+ solar energy and 23GW+of installed wind generation. With the target set at 160GW of power generation from solar and wind by 2022 the government is taking all steps to boost the market. Interestingly, the bottleneck for large-scale integration of renewable energy is inherent intermittency of renewable resources.

Energy storage can help us to fully incorporate solar and wind power seamlessly in the electricity grid.

Several energy storage technologies are currently available in the market today with lead acid batteries accounting for more than 90% of the Indian energy storage market. However, advance technologies like Li-ion, flow batteries and sodium sulphur are also witnessing adoption and market gain. However, one of the barriers for widespread adoption of energy storage technologies is price.

Price reduction will play a key role in promoting widespread use and adoption on the grid scale. In addition to price reduction, policy support from the government and incentives like Viability Gap Funding, Accelerated Depreciation etc will go a long way in promoting energy storage adoption in India. The cover story sheds light on this and bring forth the opportunities that makes India an attractive destination for global energy storage players.

As always this edition has some great features and updates from the solar and wind industry in India. I hope you enjoy reading this edition and like always we are eagerly waiting for your feedback and letters.

Happy Reading, Santosh K Editor Santosh@supersmartenergy.com

Disclaimer All efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy and information in this magazine, opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not neccessarily reflect the vies of the owner/ publisher and the editorial team. Genesis Info-Media shall not be liable for any consequences in the event such claims are found- not to be true

Like SmartEnergy on Facebook @

www.facebook.com/smartenergymagazine

Printed, published and edited by Santosh Khadtare on behalf of Genesis Info-Media, published at 509, pushp plaza, above snehanjali shworoom, manvelpada road, Virar Dist Thane and printed at M B Graphics, B 28, 3rd Floor Shri Ram Industrial Estate,Wadala West, Mumbai.

4 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

ďƒœ www.supersmartenergy.com

Content

SmartEnergy 34

50 POLICY UPDATE Haryana Solar Policy, 2016

Cover Story India Poised For Rapid Growth in Energy Storage

48 Photovoltaics Water free PV Panel Cleaning: Better for Everyone Authored By: Eran Meller

30 FINANCE Green Banks: New Investment Facilities for Clean Energy Deployment

42 distributed generation Micro-grids: Changing the Energy Landscape Authored By: Anil Kadam

44 SMART CITIES Smart Lighting: An Integral Part of Smart Cities Authored By: Satish Kumar

6 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

REGULARS

08.

10.

21.

52.

53.

54.

Special Reportz News Updates Events Report Tenders Events Watch Advertisers Index

24 PRODUCT UPDATES Analog Devices IBC Solar MECO Borg Energy SolarMax Group SMA Steca Solar

 www.supersmartenergy.com

India's Largest Exhibition and Conference for the Solar Industry Bombay Exhibition Centre, Hall 1, Mumbai Network with over 11,000 potential business contacts from the solar industry Stay up to date with the latest trends and technological developments Boost your brand visibility with an established B2B event

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Special Reportz

Headwind in the Wind Sector in India

F

Y16 saw the highest wind energy installation in a year at 3,472 megawatt (Mw), up 50 per cent from the previous year.

The last time the wind energy sector witnessed such frenzied activity was in FY12. Notably, Madhya Pradesh attracted the bulk of the wind energy capacity addition in the last financial year - 1,290 Mw, or 37 per cent of the total capacity installed during FY16 - thanks to the state's higher power tariff at Rs 5.96/kilowatthour (kwh). Maharashtra's policy and push for a tariff of Rs 5.81 (for zone-1) resulted in wind energy addition of 1,074 Mw in the state.

Rajasthan, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh also saw more instalment during FY16 compared to the previous year at 688 Mw (20 per cent of total capacity), 386 Mw (11 per cent) and 363 (10 per cent), respectively.

After the announcement of withdrawal of Accelerated Benefits in the budget 2016 there is a question mark on the pace of capacity addition in the wind sector after March 2017 when the AD benefits will come to end. This coupled with the reduction in tariffs in Madhya Pradesh, delay

in payments by state-owned utility in Maharashtra and slowdown in signings of fresh PPA in last few months would be impacting fresh wind energy capacity additions in the country.

ICRA notes that reduction in preferential tariff by SERC is a negative development for new wind energy projects to be commissioned in MP, as it is likely to result into moderation in project IRR by about 360 basis points assuming PLF level of 22%. This coupled

with slowdown in signing of fresh PPAs over last 6-8 month period & reported delays in payments by state owned utility in the state of Maharashtra (as per Industry sources) is likely to further impact fresh capacity addition expected in the country in near to medium term to some extent. This is given the fact that wind energy capacity addition in State of Maharashtra and MP together accounted for about 35-40% of incremental capacity addition seen on all

Chart 1: Trends in feed-in tariffs across the key states having wind potential Rs./ Unit

7.0 6.0 5.0 4.0 3.0

16.6% 4.8 4.8 3.6

4.2

21.6%

3.7

4.5

5.9

5.7 5.7

5.6 5.7

18.5%

4.8 0.2%

1.8%

3.5

4.2

0.2%

2.0 -19.3%

1.0 0.0

Andhra Pradesh (Mar’16, valid till Mar’17)

Gujarat

(Jan’13, valid till Mar’16)

Karnataka Madhya Pradesh Mahrashtra

(Oct’13, valid till Oct’18)

Prior Period Tariff

8 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

(Mar’16, valid till Mar’19)

(Nov’15, valid till Mar’16)

Prevailing Tariff

Rajasthan

(May’15, valid till Mar’16)

Tamil Nadu

25% 20% 15% 10% 5% 0% -5% -10% -15% -20% -25%

(May’16, valid till Mar’18)

% Variation

 www.supersmartenergy.com

Chart 2: Project IRR for Wind IPP Assets in Key States

16.0%

14.3%

14.0% 11.8% 11.8%

12.0% 10.0%

13.6%

12.8% 11.6% 11.6%

9.8%

10.6%

9.8%

8.0%

7.1%

6.0% 4.0% 2.0% 0.0%

Gujarat

Karnataka

IRR (Tariff till FY2016)

India level in last 2 year period, given the fairly attractive feed-in tariffs notified by SERCs in both the states.

On the contrary, upward revision in tariff by SERC in state of TN is a positive for new wind energy projects in the state, although tariff determination process has been significantly delayed (with previous tariff order issued in July 2012 as per which tariff validity was till July 2014). As per ICRA’s estimates, project IRR for new projects in TN is expected to improve by about 270 basis points assuming PLF level of 24%. This in turn augurs well for improvement in fresh capacity addition in the state, given the high wind energy potential with attractive PLF level.

However, realization of this potential is critically dependent on the extent of improvement in transmission bottleneck in the state as well as payment discipline by state owned Utility. The state of TN is also yet to participate in UDAY (Ujwal Discom Assurance Yojana) scheme as notified by Government of India in November 2015 for financial turnaround of the state owned distribution utilities.

From a regulatory perspective, preferential tariff norms by SERCs across the key states (which have wind resource potential) are not consistent with the guiding principles/norms as stipulated by Central Electricity Regulatory Commis-

Andhra Pradesh

Tamil Nadu

Madhya Pradesh

IRR (Tariff for FY2017)

sion (CERC). The preferential tariff regulations in MP & TN have stipulated tariffs which remain fixed over the tariff period and thus do not take into account of the impact of inflation/indexation on the cost structure during the control period. Also, wind zone based tariff principles have not been followed by SERCs across these key states, except Maharashtra and Rajasthan.

In case of the MP, the steep downward revision in wind tariff is owing to revision in normative PLF assumption from 20% to 23% coupled with the downward revision in normative capital cost assumption from Rs. 59.6 million per MW to Rs. 57.5 million per MW. ICRA notes that reduction in preferential tariff by SERC is a negative development for new wind energy projects to be commissioned in MP, as it is likely to result into moderation in project IRR by about 360 basis points at a similar PLF level.

The SERC in AP has approved the tariff for FY2017 at Rs. 4.84 per unit, which is similar to the tariff approved for FY2016 at Rs. 4.83 per unit. The minor difference in tariff is primarily owing to upward revision in normative assumption for capital costs and O&M costs as per indexation and downward revision in interest costs with decline in the benchmark rates.

Rajasthan

Mahrashtra

Source: ICRA estimates

Maharashtra and Rajasthan are yet to issue the tariff orders for wind power projects to be commissioned in FY2017. In case of Karnataka, the tariff approved at Rs. 4.5 per unit is valid till October 2018.

As seen in Chart 2, project IRR for wind IPPs (who typically opt for preferential tariff plus GBI sale route) varies across the states depending upon the PLF level & preferential tariffs. The estimated IRR is highest in the state of Maharashtra and Rajasthan owing to relatively high tariff levels, while the estimated IRR for wind assets in Gujarat remains low due to relatively lower tariff.

There is inconsistency in terms of tariff and policy across various states, which makes it difficult for the sector to grow according to the expectations, say experts.

Preferential tariff norms across the key states are not consistent with the guiding principles/norms as stipulated by the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission, according to ICRA ■ (The report is base on ICRA report titled Wind Energy Sector: Feed-in Tariff decline in Madhya Pradesh & slowdown in signing of fresh PPAs in Maharashtra to negatively impact the capacity addition on all India basis in FY2017)

SERCs in the states of Gujarat,

9

May/ June 2016 SmartEnergy

News Updates Nuevosol Energy unveils plans to make solar racking profiles Nuevosol Energy, a solar power racking and EPC solutions provider, announced plans to set up manufacturing units for profiles that go into solar racks on which panels are mounted.

Each manufacturing unit will require an outlay of ₹5 crore and the company is planning to set up three units.

The Hyderabad-based company, which is into its fifth year of operations, has thus far implemented solar racks for over 1,500 MW capacity in the country and

expects to install another 1,500 MW during the current fiscal.

Interacting with the media, Nuevosol MD and CEO Himamsu Popuri said: “The country’s solar power sector is poised for rapid growth and is likely to add about 8,000 to 10,000 MW during the current financial year. We already have a strong order book and expect to implement about 1.5 GW of racking solutions to our existing list of clients who include Azure Power, GMR, Lanco and Photon Energy.”

Rays Power Infra forays into North India with Opex Model-Rays Solar Kart Propagating Renewable Energy usage and roof top Solar PV, Ray Power Infra, one of the leading solar energy companies, forays in to North India with its Opex Model-Rays Solar Kart. Supplementing the transformation in the solar energy segment, the brand endorses Roof Top Solar PV in Delhi and Jaipur region to begin with. Inspired by its initiatives and success in the southern region, the company now undertakes the responsibility of inculcating the significance of roof top solar PV as an intelligent and the most viable option to accelerate the growth of solar power sector and fulfil the growing demand and supply gap in the power sector in India.

Elaborating on Rays Solar Kart, Ketan Mehta, CEO, Rays Power Infra commented, “The renewable energy sector in India is undergoing major transformation w i t h primary

focus on solar power. Considering the surging electricity tariffs and growing demand-supply gap, we believe that solar is the most feasible option. Furthermore, all this while the industry has been mostly focusing on the large-scale ground mounted PV power plants; we aim at changing this pattern and simultaneously concentrate on roof top solar PV too”.

Enthusing masses with its tag line "If you have a roof top, why keep it vacant when you can earn money from it”, Rays Solar Kart is part of an ISO- 9001 and ISO14001 certified, energy services provider in India founded by IIT alumni. It is the 3rd largest solar services company in India and pioneer in development of GREEN Technology solutions for Roof Top Solar Power Plants, which are environmental friendly, energy efficient, cost effective and are need of the hour. It has gained the reputation of being the pioneer in the field of solar power generation also ■

10 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

“We currently source profiles from some of the top manufacturers such as Pennar and now feel the need to have our own facility, as it will help us better control the supply requirements.

Given the stiff deadline targets set for development of solar projects, having control over profiles for racking will help the company to meet the requirements of clients,” he said ■

Risen secures 175 MW solar module deal from Mytrah Risen Energy Co., a Chinese Tier-1 producer of solar PV modules, has signed a 175 MW supply deal with India’s Mytrah Energy for the delivery of its high-efficiency 60-cell and 72-cell panels.

Mytrah Energy recently secured a direct loan facility worth $175 million with the Asia Development Bank (ADB) to assist its growth plans within India, which include the option of purchasing a further 50 MW of Risen modules, the company confirmed.

Mytrah’s chairman, Ravi Kailas, remarked that the involvement of ADB is "further evidence of the growing maturity of our business"; words that were echoed

by Risen CSMO Bypina Veerraju Chaudary.

"Mytrah’s severe selection process looks acutely into technological, quality, state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, service, communication and financial stability, and we are pleased to have measured up to their criteria," Chaudary said ■

 www.supersmartenergy.com

News Updates LM Wind Power opens its second wind turbine blade plant in India at Vadodara, Gujarat LM Wind Power announced today the inauguration of its second Indian plant, located in Vadodara, Gujarat. Customers, business partners and local dignitaries joined in on the event which is a strong signal of the company’s growth in the important Indian market as well as a celebration of a highly efficient ramp up to production. The plant, which was announced in November last year, began producing wind turbine blades a full month ahead of schedule.

LM Wind Power CEO, Marc de Jong, said: “It is a great pleasure to inaugurate this new addition to our global manufacturing operations, which will allow us to serve our growing customer base in India. With this new blade plant, we bring employment, advanced training and development of technical skills to Gujarat, while helping to build a clean renewable energy base in a fast growing economy. We expect

to prosper here, as we have in Dabaspet, applying international standards in safety, quality and business conduct as well as becoming an active corporate citizen in the local community.

The Vadodara plant represents an investment of EUR 25 million and will supply blades to wind projects in the northern part of India and beyond. The production focuses on blades up to 60 meters in length with room for expansion. It employs almost 400 people in the initial phase, primarily from the local area.

LM Wind Power already established manufacturing in India in the early 1990s. It was the first

international location outside its home country, Denmark. The company currently operates a highly efficient blade manufacturing facility in Dabaspet, Karnataka and a global technical centre for research, development and services in Bangalore. The Dabaspet plant has won several awards for its outstanding safety and sustainability performance. LM Wind Power has approximately 1400 employees in India ■

Su-Kam bags ASSOCHAM National Brand Summit & Excellence Awards 2016 Su-Kam Power Systems Limited, leading power back-up solutions provider in India, has bagged the ASSOCHAM National Brand Summit & Excellence Awards 2016 for being the ‘Best Innovation Brand’ in the Renewable Energy Sector. Su-Kam has received the coveted award for company’s continuous quest to offer hi-tech innovative solar power back-up solutions to individuals and organizations across the globe. The Award Ceremony was held at The Oberoi, Kolkata.

“National Brand Summit & Excellence Awards” by ASSOCHAM is an initiative to salute Indian Corporate and Brands working in various sectors for excellence,

innovation and their contribution to the society.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Kartik Sachdev, Marketing Head, Solar, Su-Kam, said, “We are honored to be recognized for our commitment towards offering our customers’ quality products backed by unique innovations to suit their power back-up needs.

Su-Kam’s mantra, to constantly innovate and acclimatize its products according to the customer’s needs and requirements, is the driving factor behind the company’s excellence.”

“Over the last decade we have set a new benchmark for high quality power back-up products in India. This recognition speaks

12 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

volumes about the direction we are headed in. We are grateful to our hard working team members and our loyal customers who have helped us achieve yet another milestone!" he added ■  www.supersmartenergy.com

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News Updates Ecoppia Opens Mass Production Facility in India Riding a wave of increased demand for their technology, Ecoppia - developer, designer, and producer of a pioneering robotic cleaning technology for utility-scale solar sites - inked a deal to begin mass producing their E4 robots at a new, stateof-the-art facility near Chennai, India. With the rapid growth of the solar industry in India, Ecoppia has seen skyrocketing demand for its E4 technology.

The paradigm-shifting technology can clean an entire solar site in just a few hours, keeping solar energy production at peak efficiency. The deal, bringing together Ecoppia and new OEM partner Sanmina Corp, will see the majority of Ecoppia's production move to India.

"We've seen demand grow across the board in 2015 - but

India remains our top market and the natural choice for us to build a state-of-the-art production facility," said Eran Meller, CEO of Ecoppia. "To do that we needed a strong partner, one that could help scale up production quickly. With Sanmina as our OEM, there's no doubt we're moving into a very strong market position."

Ecoppia's E4 is the only bankable, effective and cost-effective solution in the important market of utility-scale PV panel cleaning.

The industry has long been challenged by the need for consistent and water-free cleaning but reluctant to grant certification to technologies that may damage panels and impact energy production efficiency. Ecoppia has surmounted the problem, passing all industry tests and winning

blanket certification from every panel maker it's approached while maintaining international production standards.

Sanmina, a Fortune 500 company and one of the world's leading OEMs, has a long history of manufacturing hardware, optics, electronics and clean technology for business clients and provides Ecoppia with a clear advantage in being able to quickly scale-up to meet the demands of India's, and the world's, largest solar projects.

"The momentum we're seeing in the market suggests that Prime Minister Modi's goal of 100 GW of solar by 2022 will be achievable and we are excited that we can play a role in providing costeffective solar energy, bring new industry to India and create local jobs," said Ecoppia's Meller ■

Waaree Energies announces the launch of its first Plug and Play solar Park ‘Sunbless’ Maharashtra is now all set with its first Plug and Play solar park after the launch of ‘Sunbless’

by Waaree Energies. Aiding the government with its solar power initiatives along with various businesses with their power needs, this is the first solar park in the state that will facilitate installation of Solar Projects within the park ofsize 1MW and above.

It is a 100% ready to move in solar park with a maximum capacity of 40MW. A 1.5 MW project has been recently commissioned in the park by Waaree for a leading pharmaceutical company. Sprawling over more than 150 acres of land, the area receives a GHI of 1881.8 kWh/m2. This park provides land and evacuation facility to the nearest 132/33 kV GSS via double circuit transmis-

14 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

sion line.

Elaborating on the concept, Mr Hitesh Doshi Chairman and Managing Director, Waaree Energies said, “The solar park is a perfect answer for all those wishing to establish solar PV Projects such as IPP’s, Captive consumers etc. Setting up a Solar PV project is time consuming and securing suitable land with evacuation facilities is a challenge. Our Sunbless Solar Park is aimed at eliminating such risks for our clients and significantly reducing the lead time from concept to commissioning. It also provides great economies of scale resulting in reduced total cost of ownership”.

It offers facilities such as approach road, fencing, water supply, common infrastructure

support and resources. The park is set in an area with excellent road and railway connectivity. Located at Marutizapur, near Akola, the closest railway station is 12 Kms on CR and the Nagpur airport is close at a distance of 250 Km. The site also easily accessible from the highway, being only 2Km away from NH6.

The ‘Sunbless’ solar park is all set to transform solar power sector of Maharashtra, with the park’s transmission line and bay ready for evacuation.

WAAREE Energies Ltd is the flagship company of Waaree Group, founded in 1989 with headquarters at Mumbai, India.

It is a leading player in the solar Energy space in India as well as internationally ■

 www.supersmartenergy.com

17 Regulators & Policymakers Retreat 2016

Organised by

September 22 - 25, 2016 | Hotel Lalit, Goa, India

India - Meeting the Aspirations?

The event that gives a view of the Indian Power Sector.

Here’s a sneak peek at our agenda: • India: how to meet the ever-growing aspirations?

• Has the Electricity Act 2003 failed to deliver to the consumer?

• One billion ton coal production by 2020: role of private sector • The water energy nexus • Transition to 175GW – solar, wind & biomass by 2020 • Innovations in the power sector and new technologies Award Categories

Best Performing Distribution Company Best State to promote Renewable Energy Best Thermal Power Generator Best Hydro Power Generator Best State-Transmission Best SLDC Most Progressive State in Power Sector Most Progressive SERC Recognition of Innovation

Contact: For Speakers: Iqbal Kaur iqbal@ippaimail.org +91 9582229844

For Sponsorships: Neetu Nair neetu@ippaimail.org +91 9873080070

Ankit Gupta ankit@ippaimail.org +91 9718944234

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#IPPAI_RPR

Media: Divya Parthasarathy divya@ippaimail.org +91 9650650044

#RPR2016

News Updates Sungrow received running certifi- First Solar cates from IBC Solar India for two achieves new milestone projects Sungrow, one of world’s leading PV inverter manufacturers, announces the receipt of running certificates from IBC Solar India for two projects. The first is a 5.5 megawatts string inverter project, whilst the second is a 11.68 megawatts central containersolution project.

The 5.5 megawatts string inverter project, is located in Bhadla, District of Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India. It utilizes Sungrow’s string inverter ground space system.

“We were persuaded to try this system and have found it to be an excellent product. Sungrow’s string inverter ground space system is the best we have used and the offer is very competitive. Another major attraction for us was the fact that Sungrow is a global brand,” said Mr.Rohan Jhawar, the CEO of LNB Renewables.

The 11.68 megawatts project, located in Pokhran, Rajasthan, India, uses the SG1000TS central inverter ground space system.

Palimarwar Solar Project Private Limited, part of the LNB Group, is the owner of this project, and was focused on having a plug and play solution. Sungrow was able to provide the SG1000TS system within this cooperation.

“With the power generation of 6500 kilowatt-hour per day per inverter, the return on investment of this project is higher than we expected. Since the completion of construction in April.2015, it has kept running stably from the first day of operation,” said Mr.Rohan Jhawar, the CEO of LNB Renewables which mainly develops solar farms and invests in wind energy assets.

“The Indian market is increasingly important to Sungrow, particularly as there are supportive policies from the Indian government”, said Professor CaoRenxian, CEO of Sungrow. “Having opened an office in India last year, we are very committed to this country and look forward to long term success here.” ■

IFirst Solar, Inc announced that it has achieved one gigawatt (GW) DC of photovoltaic (PV) solar capacity shipped to India, making it the first thin film PV module manufacturer to achieve this milestone in the country.

Sujoy Ghosh, First Solar’s Country Head for India, in a statement said, “We thank our customers and stakeholders in India for placing their trust in First Solar.

They are benefiting from differentiated technology that has proven its superior energy yield by delivering 5-9 per cent more energy, compared to polysiliconbased modules in India for its customers over the past four years.”

Contrary to perception, he said, “Our technology roadmap has us on a path to even greater conversion efficiencies, which will enable solar plants to be even more competitive against conventional energy sources.” ■

Fortum Corp to invest €200-400 million Swelect Energy wins 10 MW Solar in India’s solar energy sector Power Project in Finnish state-run utility Fortum ment released.

Corp. will invest €200-400 million Karnataka The firm, which had global sales (Rs.1,500-3,000 crore) in India’s solar energy sector, making it the first country the clean energy firm will invest in as part of its strategy to diversify globally.

“Overall, Fortum is targeting a gigawatt-scale wind and solar portfolio. India is the first country Fortum has decided to enter, as the country offers one of the best solar resources and a sound government support for the development of the solar sector,” Forum said in a state-

of €3.5 billion in 2015, will set up some large-scale greenfield projects in India to enable economies of scale and will also enter partnerships, or “other forms of cooperation, which would in the long term create a more assetlight structure,” the statement said.

Finland’s Fortum is the latest global corporation looking to set up renewable energy plants in India, which offers 300 days of sunlight a year ■

16 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

Swelect Energy Systems Ltd participated in KREDL Solar Power Project announced by Karnataka Government. Under the DCR Category eligible for Karnataka based Solar Module manufacturers, the Company submitted the bid and won a 10 MW Solar Power project. Directors at their meeting have approved the proposal of acquiring 100% equity share capital at face value for utilizing the said Company (SPSPL) as SPV for the above project ■

 www.supersmartenergy.com

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News Updates SolaireDirect wins solar project in UP IFrench firm SolaireDirect, one of the leading independent solar power producers worldwide and a subsidiary of renewables firm ENGIE, has won a 75MW solar project in Uttar Pradesh, quoting viability gap funding (VGF) of $112,000/MW (Rs 7.435 million/MW).

The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) tendered the project by using a reverse auction process under India’s National Solar Mission to award these projects with a set tariff of $0.066/kWh (Rs 4.43/kWh) alongside VGF, which is a funding mechanism provided by the government of India.

As of now, the National Solar Mission has awarded 3,700 MW through tender offers to complete the ambitious development objective of 100 GW of solar power capacity by 2022. The awarded project is the Group’s first solar undertaking in UP. ENGIE claims a pioneering role in India and its position as a major player in solar energy in the Indian market, with a total capacity of over 450 MW of solar energy in four states: Rajasthan, Telangana, Punjab and UP ■

SkyPower Awards Sterling and Wilson EPC Contract to Build 350 MW of Solar in India SkyPower, the largest and one of the most successful developers of utility-scale solar energy projects in the world, and Sterling and Wilson, world-leading and top Indian solar engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) company, announced the signing of agreements for the EPC and operation and maintenance (O&M) of SkyPower's recently awarded 350 MW (AC) solar projects to be built in India. Construction of the seven 50 MW projects, 150 MW in Madhya Pradesh and 200 MW in Telangana, are to commence in Q3-Q4 of 2016.

SkyPower continues to lead by example and by action. The signing of these EPC and O&M agreements with Sterling and Wilson is an important milestone toward the timely execution of our awarded projects and fulfillment of our commitment to generating a brighter future for India through developing clean solar power," said SkyPower's President and Chief Executive Officer Kerry Adler.

"Sterling and Wilson is proud to be selected to execute SkyPower's projects in India. SkyPower's world-class construction and O&M requirements and standards are stringent, and our selection is a testament to Sterling and Wilson's capabilities and stellar reputation in India and abroad," said Bikesh Ogra, President, Solar & Electrical Division, Sterling and Wilson.

SkyPower's continued commitment to develop, finance and build solar photovoltaic projects in India represents a significant amount of the Government of India's 100 GW solar target for 2022. SkyPower is proud to be a part of this exemplary program ■

Solargise India to set up Rs. 900-cr plant near Bengaluru Bengaluru-based firm Solargise India announced its commercial launch of operations and said that it will invest ₹900 crore to set up a manufacturing unit with annual capacity to make 500 MW of solar photovoltaic cells and modules.

Founded in 2015 by Raj Basu, the company will set up the plant in Karnataka’s Dabaspet Industrial Area near Bengaluru. The company has tied up with GE, which will act as the technology and engineering procurement and construction partner.

Apart from manufacturing solar cells and modules, Solargise also plans to enter into pro-

18 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

ject development and aims to deliver 2,000 MW of solar power projects over the next 3-4 years using GE’s 1.5kV inverters, transformers and other systems.

“We are aiming to create the entire ecosystem necessary to make renewable energy the alternative base power,” said Basu, Chairman of the company, at the launch.

He added that the use of GE’s inverters increases the efficiency of the solar plants being developed by Solargise and reduce the overall system costs.

Tarun Kapoor, Joint Secretary, Ministry for New & Renewable

Energy, said, “Right now, the domestic manufacturing capacity stands at 1,200 MW per annum which is likely to go up to 2,000 MW per annum in a few months.

Another plant of 1,200 MW per annum is expected by December. Therefore, by the end of the year, India should have a capacity of 3,200 MW per annum.”

“Products like Solargise, which aim to be cost effective and efficient, reduces the problems for the Ministry as well because they can be compete with imports without requiring support from the government,” Kapoor added ■

 www.supersmartenergy.com

India challenges WTO in US ABB India and Welspun Energy solar case IIndia has appealed against modules. advance India’s solar findings of a WTO panel on "In order to promote and the solar case the country is power ambition make Indian solar cells and contesting against the US, Commerce and Industry Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said.

"India had filed an appeal against the WTO panel findings and the recommendations thereof. India's appeal primarily focuses on the need for a holistic approach to the issue of government procurement, keeping in view the public policy objectives of ensuring energy security and achieving ecologically sustainable growth, Sitharaman said in written reply to a Rajya Sabha question.

The Minister said there is no general stipulation under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM) for compulsory sourcing of locally manufactured solar cells and

modules manufacturing industry competitive, government imposed the condition of procurement of locally manufactured solar cells and modules, only in a few of its program under the JNNSM," she said.

Replying to a separate query, Sitharaman said India had applied for membership of APEC in 1991 on the basis of its geographical location, potential size of the economy and degree of trade interaction with the Asia-Pacific.

"However, at the 5th APEC Leader's meeting in Vancouver in 1997, a decision was taken to place a 10-year moratorium on expanding membership, which continues informally till date," the Minister noted ■

Customized Energy Solutions Receives the Brad Roberts Outstanding Industry Achievement Award at Annual Conference & Expo

ABB in India and Welspun Energy, have together installed about 700 MW of solar photovoltaic projects across several states in India like Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

This includes a key project of 52 MW for Maharashtra State Generation Company at Baramati, which was the first ever PPP (public-private partnership) project in the industry, in the country.

“By setting up large scale solar capacities across the country we are supporting India’s developmental needs through clean energy. This is essential if we want to power our industries sustainably and meet our renewable energy targets. We chose ABB as a bankable partner owing to its leadership in inverter technology, strong local presence and a robust service network which has helped us to synchronize our plants in a very short time, whilst meeting our robust quality standards,” said Vineet Mittal, Managing Director, Welspun Energy. “ABB offers quality, reliability, efficiency and a well entrenched network, all of which are critical to minimizing the long-term risks of solar installations.”

ABB is the leading global supplier of solar photovoltaic (PV) inverters and over half the 5.1 GW inverters installed in India are from ABB. “We look forward to a continuing collaboration with forward looking customers such as Welspun Energy, one of the pioneers in the clean energy space in the country and feel privileged to be a part of this association,” said Sanjeev Sharma, CEO and Managing Director, ABB India.

“India and solar power are core focus areas in ABB’s global next level strategy.

Our expertise and attention to developing local engineering competence positions us well to partner India through Welspun Energy in its growth ambitions. We look forward to contributing to initiatives such as Make in India, power to all and 100 GW of solar power by 2022.” ■

19

May/ June 2016 SmartEnergy

News Updates Gamesa emerges top wind turbine seller in 2015-16

IWTMA: Indian wind industry installed 3,472.15 MW of wind capacity in 2015-16

Gamesa India has emerged the top wind turbine seller in India in the year 2015-16, beating Suzlon and also crossing the 1 GW-mark for the first time.

The Indian Wind Turbine Manufacturers Association (IWTMA) has announced the latest installed capacity numbers of the wind industry. The total installed capacity for 2015-16 comes in at 3,472.15 MW, which is higher than the previous highest of 3,196.66 MW installed in 2011-12.

The Indian subsidiary of the Spanish wind major of the same name, sold wind turbines worth 1,003 MW in the year, up from 657 MW in the previous year, even as the traditional market leader, Suzlon, more than doubled its sales to 900 MW. But the fastest growth was recorded by Inox Wind, whose sales increased to 790 MW from 272 MW in 2014-15.

Incidentally, Gamesa India is also the largest contributor to Gamesa's global sales, accounting for 29 per cent of sales. In calendar year 2015, Gamesa's global order intake was 3,883 MW, up 17 per cent, with India accounting for a major share.

Gamesa India's Chairman and Managing Director, Ramesh Kymal, attributed the company's success to "favourable business climate" in India ■

“The industry has done very well this year,” said DV Giri, Secretary General of the IWTMA. In 2015-16, Madhya Pradesh was the state with the highest installed wind capacity, at 1,291.90 MW, followed by Rajasthan at 687.90 MW. In terms of manufacturers, the highest numbers came from Gamesa (1003.70 MW), Suzlon (900.10 MW), Inox (790 MW) and ReGen (313.50 MW).

“We expect the numbers to cross 4,000 MW in the next period [2016-17],” said DV Giri. Apart from some wind states which are expected to do well, the reduction in Accelerated Depreciation (AD) and possible sunset clause on Generation Based Incentive (GBI) are expected to contribute to the higher numbers next year.

The wind industry, with its high level of indigenization, is a strong supporter of the Prime Minister’s Make in India campaign. The industry is also poised to attain the Prime Minister’s target of 60GW by 2022 ■

REC Trading Increased by 61.7% In 2015-16

Suzlon Group appoints J P Chalasani as CEO

Sale of renewable energy certificates (RECs) increased by 61.7% to 49.56 lakh in 2015-16 as compared to 30.64 lakh in 2014-¬15.

Power distribution companies, open access and captive consumers are under obligation to buy RECs from renewable energy producers under the Renewable Energy Purchase Obligation (RPO) mandated by central or state regulatory commission.

Suzlon Group announced it has appointed leading power sector professional J P Chalasani as Group CEO.

Two power exchanges,Indian Energy Exchange (IEX) and Power Exchange India Limited (PXIL),¬¬ hold auction of RECs on the last Wednesday of every month.

IEX said the following, "With almost 7.10 lacs RECs traded in March REC Session at IEX held on March 30, 2016, the traded volume surged over 2.5 times over February, 2016. This is the second highest trade so far after December 2015 when 8.66 lakh RECs were traded."

In fiscal 2015-¬16, about 31.4 lakh RECs were traded at IEX, more than double of 15.5 lakh RECs traded last fiscal. On an overall basis, 49.6 lacs RECs were traded on IEX and PXIL, an increase of about 62% as compared to 30.6 lakh RECs traded last fiscal ■

20 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

Chalasani started his career with NTPC and rose through the ranks over the years.

After taking up the lead role in Reliance Power, he transformed the company to become the largest market cap entity in the private sector.

Chalasani is known to focus on improving operations, enhancing and simplifying processes, and leveraging both HR and Finance to position companies for strong and sustainable growth to create value for stakeholders," Suzlon Group chairman Tulsi Tanti said in a statement.

"I have always watched Suzlon closely. I believe the business fundamentals to be strong and that the company, at its core, is a compelling and credible business operation," Chalasani said ■  www.supersmartenergy.com

Event Report

India Smart Grid week 2016: Nation needs to go smart on renewable energy Addressing leading technology experts in the field of electricity, policymakers and utility leaders from across the globe at the India Smart Grid Week, Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of Power, Coal and Renewable Energy strongly advocated the need for India to adopt smart grids and concepts to improve energy access and ensure power reaches the last man on the bottom of the pyramid.

Speaking at the India Smart Grid Week 2016, organized by India Smart Grid Forum, the Minister talked about the importance of adopting smart grid technologies and encouraged policymakers and stakeholders to work together towards technology-enabled efficient networks to ensure 24*7 affordable energy to every citizen in the country.

24*7 supply of affordable electricity to every person in the country “Do it smart to do it right. Every dimension of human existence can be transformed with quality power and energy. Smart grids and smart meters are the first step for India to become a smart country. I invite the partnership of all stakeholders, power utilities and policymakers to participate to make power 24*7 supply of affordable electricity to every person in the country,” said Shri Piyush Goyal, Power Minister.

“In doing so, smart grids are extremely important to reach to the last man on the bottom of the pyramid. Hence, we need to have innovative solutions that are cost effective, technology-enabled and giving equal opportunity to all.

While technology will help us drive down the cost, we are very particular about the quality as well.

Both technology and quality are non-negotiable for us.”

Innovative financing models and

contracts would be a win-win for all the stakeholders The minister also encouraged mobile companies, who are equipped with the potential to reach up to the last mile, to step forward and invest in the power sector. He stressed the importance of innovative financing models and contracts that would be a win-win for all the stake holders.

“The goal is to have smart meters in every establishment and home in India, this means business opportunity to install 250 million smart meters in the country in next three and half year. We want the smart meters to be priced at Rs 999 or below. For us figure 9 is extremely important as we targeted to make LEDs at Rs 99, we today buy it at much below Rs 99,” added Shri Goyal.

Organized by India Smart Grid Forum, the India Smart Grid week , the international conference and exhibition 3 day conclave is an initiative taken to attract the attention on the critical issues such as energy requirement of the country, capabilities of smart grids, their cost effectiveness and

benefits to customers and utilities.

The event has brought together the power utilities, policy makers and other stake holders to leverage the evolving smart grid technologies in resolving some crucial lacunas in electricity delivery.

Over 200 million people in India have no access to electricity “We are inspired by your mission of installing 250 million smart meters in India as this would unleash a revolution like the mobile revolution in our country.

It would also help in transforming the lives of over a billion people of the country,” said Reji Kumar Pillai, President, India Smart Grid Forum.

“Electricity is the cleanest fuel to the end-user and a key driver to the economy of the nation.

Despite the efforts made by the concerned authorities, over 200 million people in India have no access to electricity and most regions experience frequent power cuts. Hence, smart grids are crucial, especially to the government’s key projects that include 24*7 power, smart cities, 175 GW renewable energy, electric vehicles, and others ■

21

May/ June 2016 SmartEnergy

Inshorts NATIONAL ACME bags 200-MW solar projects in AP and Telangana Solar power developer ACME said it has won bids for developing 200 MW of solar power projects under the auctions conducted by SECI and NTPC in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, respectively.

“After bagging this tender, our overall portfolio has expanded to 1,519 MW,” said Manoj Kumar Upadhyay, Founder & Chairman of ACME.

Limited competition for SECI’s 400MW auction in Andhra Pradesh India’s latest 400MW solar auction saw limited competition compared to recent tenders with just six bidders for the PV capacity in an Andhra Pradesh solar park.

Spain-based developer Fotowatio Renewable Ventures (FRV) has won its first project in India with 100MW, while the rest of the participants were Indian companies.

Clean energy projects get Rs 86,000 crore investment: Piyush Goyal Renewable energy projects have received Rs 86,000 crore investments, most of it from private sector, in the last three years with Madhya Pradesh at the top with Rs 14,313.80 crore.

"Most of the investment in renewable energy came from private sector. Total estimated investment in renewable energy power projects during the last three years is around Rs 86,000 crore," New and Renewable Energy Minister Piyush Goyal said in a written reply to Lok Sabha.

TN tops in solar capacity addition During 2015-16, solar segment

added 3,019 MW to the grid, taking the cumulative solar energy capacity in India to 6,763 MW as of March 31, 2016. Tamil Nadu led the growth by adding 919 MW, followed by Andhra Pradesh (435 MW) and Telangana (361 MW), according to a document of Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).

The other leading States were Rajasthan (328 MW), Punjab (220 MW), Madhya Pradesh (218 MW) and Gujarat (119 MW).

Six farmers in Gujarat form world’s first solar power cooperative society GWith the help of Colombo-based International Water Management Institute (IWMI), six Gujarat farmers have formed world’s first solar power cooperative society to sell surplus power generated from solar water pumps installed at their farms. The cooperative society has been registered at Registrar of Cooperative Society, Government of Gujarat. It is for the first time that someone has set up solar cooperative society.

Gujarat Announces Subsidy for Rooftop Solar Power Systems The Gujarat Energy Developer Authority has announced Rs 10,000 (US$150) to Rs 20,000 (US$300) subsidy per kW of rooftop solar power system for homeowners. This financial support will be in addition to the 30% subsidy being offered by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy at the central government level.

The Gujarat government plans to include 100,000 consumers under this program. Once this target is achieved, the government will review the program and decide its future.

MNRE panels to improve quality control of solar mod-

22 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

ules and products The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has reportedly formed three panels to enhance quality of solar modules and products. One of the three panels will make policy for testing laboratories, while another will assign technology and product standards and the third will examine regulations governing solar products.

Currently solar modules are tested in three labs one in -National Institute of Solar Energy laboratory in Gurgaon and two private labs in Bengaluru. These labs together can test only 150 modules annually.

A.P. pilots solar energy storage project Andhra Pradesh will set an example to other States in integration of solar energy with the power grid when the proposed 100 MW storage capacity is created in the green energy corridor coming up in Anantapur and Kadapa districts.

It is a pilot project being supported by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).

Inox Wind bags 2 orders of 100 MW capacity in M.P., Gujarat Inox Wind Ltd announced that it has bagged two orders for a cumulative capacity of 100 MW from country’s one of the leading renewable energy independent power producers.

“The turnkey orders comprise a 50 MW project to be set up in Gujarat and another 50 MW project to be set up in Madhya Pradesh,” the company released added.

As part of the turnkey projects, the company will provide end-to-end solutions from development, construction to commissioning and providing long—term operations and maintenance services ■

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Product Updates

Precision Power Conversion Platform Enables Disruptive Inverter Technology to Lower Solar Energy Cost

T

he ADSP-CM41x series of mixed-signal control processors is designed to dramatically simplify system design, improving efficiency and safety in solar, energy storage, and electric vehicle infrastructure applications.

The ADSP-CM41x control processors represent a breakthrough in power controller design, with an unmatched level of hardware integration specifically tailored to solar and other emerging energy applications. By alleviating the need for numerous external components, the ADSP-CM41x not only saves considerable design time and cost, but also delivers safety improvements and the precision gains needed.

Central to the ADSP-CM41x design

is its breakthrough new “Dual Independent Core” concept, which enables the integration of dualcore safety redundancy into a single chip. This saves considerable design time and system cost by eliminating the need for an external supervisory element.

Equally impactful is the on-board integration of optimized hardware accelerators, designed to offload work from the processor core and boost the processing power available for core functions.

In addition, some models offer onboard arc fault detection, not only

ADSP-CM41x ARM M0

ARM M4F

ADuM413x iCoupler Gate Driver

Accelerators Precision Analog

AD740x Current Sensing

iCoupler OP-Amp

RS-485

VREF

simplifying design, but enhancing safety by using intelligent decision making to improve reliability and accuracy ■

IBC SOLAR presents new products and services for different PV business segments

I

BC SOLAR AG, a global leading system service-provider for photovoltaics (PV) and energy storage systems, will once again be showcasing its products at this year's Intersolar Europe, Europe's most important trade fair for solar technology. The company from Bad Staffelstein will be presenting its entire product range in hall A3, stand 290 from June 22 to 24. In addition to new products, the photovoltaic specialist will also inform on its expertise and services for new PV business models.

Maximising output with the IBC MonoSol CS4 Smart IBC SOLAR's first smart module, the IBC MonoSol CS4 Smart, is a new addition to the company's module portfolio. It contains an

production of a PV system, for example if a system falls short of its optimum performance due to shading. The IBC MonoSol CS4 Smart is also responsible for monitoring, and can be be switched off separately through a PV safe button. The IBC MonoSol CS4 Smart combines the patented optimiser technology of TIGO with the controlled quality and long-term guarantees of the value-added modules from the IBC SOLAR Line.

New middle clamp G4 integrated power optimiser and will be showcased at this year's Intersolar for the first time. The smart technology from TIGO can be used to enhance the power

24 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

IBC SOLAR is also exhibiting proven classics at this year's Intersolar in Munich, such as the mounting systems from the IBC TopFix and IBC AeroFix product families. The new middle clamp

 www.supersmartenergy.com

G4 is being unveiled for the first time at this years Intersolar.

It is produced from highquality corrosionresistant aluminium and can be used with all IBC SOLAR mounting systems. The middle clamp G4 was developed as a cheaper alternative for PV systems, with special requirements when it comes to economic efficiency.

The clamp also involves less stor-

age costs for installers, as only one clamp type is required, which is suitable for attachment to the interior of the module field and the edges.

Products and services from an expert provider IBC SOLAR will also be displaying its extensive range of storage systems at the trade fair in Munich, which offers the best

possible combinable system solution for every application. This will give visitors the chance to catch a glimpse of the IBC SolStore 6.5 Li – this modular extensible lithium storage solution is suitable for private households and for small business owners. The Tesla Powerwall will also be on show as a new addition to the portfolio. It is suitable for installation both indoors and outdoors, and guarantees maximum flexibility thanks to its multiple possible combinations with various inverters ■

MECO “Solar System Analyzer Model 9018BT”

T

he 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.

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 and STC).

Other Features: Max. Solar Panel Power (Pmax) search by Auto-Scan : 1000V &

12A (12\KW 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 ■ For More Product Information Contact: Prashant Thakkar (Manager Solar Products) Tel. No: 022 – 27673300, M: 9867266639 Email Id: prashant.thakkar@ mecoinst.com

25

May/ June 2016 SmartEnergy

Product Updates

'In-Demand' BORG Energy's Solar Panels hits Indian market shelves

B

uoyed by strong demand from the Indian market for its latest solar power solutions, clean energy giant BORG Energy Pvt. Ltd is now selling its Solar Photo Voltaic Panels in the Indian marketplace, offering Indian consumers greater accessibility to latest and most efficient clean energy solutions.

Borg Energy India, the subsidiary of the US solar power conglomerate, Borg Inc has changed its sales strategy vis a vis the Indian market after the market responded more than positively to its newly introduced solar power solutions.

BORG, whose sales strategy was hitherto limited to supply/

sell only its turnkey Solar Photo Voltaic Power Solutions, will now Be Selling Solar Photo Voltaic Panels separately in India considering the exponential demand.

The Solar Photo Voltaic Panels manufactured and supplied by Borg are double anodized, and entail the highest cell efficiency of silicon cells as measured at standard test conditions.

Some of the other remarkable features of the Borg Solar Photo Voltaic Panels Include - Low Temperature Deposition , Low Temperature Coefficient , Most Efficient Functioning Even Under Shaded Conditions , Thinnest Silicon Cells For Light Trapping , Superior Product Qual-

ity , Genuine & Verified Components , Large Surface Area , 25 Year Performance Guarantee.

Borg Energy offers comprehensive installation as well as maintenance services along with its power solutions. By selling its solar panels on a stand along basis, the company wants to give Indian consumers - commercial as well as domestic - greater options, accessibility and freedom to adapt its products according to their needs.

BORG's Solutions have been customized for India and the solar powered systems are designed with advanced technology by creating a completely new energy value chain that links renewable and traditional power generation, improves reliability, reduces pollution, and enhances utilization.

The company is confident its products will revolutionize the Indian clean energy market â–

SolarMax Group presents its system solution MaxStorage TP-S for storing solar energy

T

he SolarMax Group is presenting its new storage solution MaxStorage TP-S for the very first time at the leading trade fair for the international solar industry, Intersolar Europe in Munich. The new system solution has a modular construction, uniting lithiumion battery storage, a battery management system, a tried and tested SolarMax TP-Series inverter and the new MaxWeb XPN energy manager, all in one casing.

For the inverters, customers can choose between three TP-Series devices with rated outputs of five to seven kilowatts. Thanks to their dynamic 70% power reduction they can control consumers to increase self- consumption. The

basic storage module has a capacity of 3.6 kilowatthours and can be extended in stages of 1.2 kilowatthours up to 12 kilowatthours. The DC-coupled system achieves a charging efficiency factor of von 97 per cent, and it can be discharged in wide operating range of -20 to + 60 (only valid for the inverter) degrees Celsius.

Self-learning management

energy

For managing energy, the SolarMax Group has developed the new MaxWeb XPN data logger.

As nodal point for remote moni-

26 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

toring it records current readings, yield data and events. As an energy management centre it regulates the energy flow and adjusts it to suit energy need and availability. This makes it possible to use existing resources intelligently.

All used and surrendered power

ďƒœ www.supersmartenergy.com

is visualised, and both own consumption and electricity saved are graphically represented. The MaxWeb XPN software is selflearning: based on typical consumption and the weather forecast the data logger determines the best time to store solar power, which increases efficiency and maximises returns.

New business MaxStorage

division

“More and more plant operators want to be independent of the grid and increasing energy prices. With our modular storage systems we offer complete systems specially put together to meet the customer’s needs, and all from the same source”, explains Mathias Mader, managing director of the SolarMax Group. With the launch of

the new TP-S storage system, the SolarMax Group is expanding its range to include the new business division dedicated to the storage of solar power, MaxStorage.

The starter model for the single family home range TP-S is available as of 4Q/2016. An extension for larger capacity ranges with the MT-S and HT-S models is planned. The group grants a ten-year system guarantee for all storage system solutions.

High-performance central inverter for la r ge - s c ale projects As well as the storage system solution, the group is presenting its high-performance RX-Series central inverter for the first time in Munich. SolarMax has developed both outdoor inverters with rated capacities of 500 and 600 kilowatts for large-scale international projects. They will be on the market by the end of the year ■

Sunny Boy Storage 2.5

T

he Sunny Boy Storage is the battery inverter for high-voltage batteries from all reputable manufacturers. With a charge and discharge power of 2.5 kW, it is ideally suited to coping with the electricity demand of a private household. The device combines the flexibility of the AC coupling with the advantages of high-voltage technology, enabling a significant reduction in system and installation costs. Thanks to the integrated web server and the direct portal access, commissioning is simple and the energy flows in the household are as transparent as possible.

However electric current is produced and consumed – whether in existing or new PV systems, using wind energy, in CHP plants or to ensure a secure supply in the event of grid failures – the Sunny Boy Storage does it all, both today and in the future, because systems with the Sunny Boy Storage can be flexibly extended at any time on both the generator and battery sides.

Flexible ii Multiple configuration options and extendable PV design ii For new and existing systems ii Compatible with all lithium-ion batteries Efficient ii Most economical AC-connected system on the market

ii Integrated dynamic active power limitation for PV inverters Simple ii One-person installation ii WLAN and interface

intuitive

web

ii Transparency thanks to its direct connection to Sunny Portal / Sunny Places ■

ii 97% efficiency

27

May/ June 2016 SmartEnergy

Product Updates

Steca solar electronics: Off-grid PV systems, inverters and storage systems

S

teca will present its extensive product portfolio for the 17th time, impressing visitors with innovations in the fields of off-grid and grid-feed systems. This year, the Steca inverters excel through optimized performance: For instance, a special smart meter, which allows for intelligent control of the feeding power, can be connected to a new interface. This new feature is a crucial requirement for integration

markets.

into smart grids o n international

Another novelty is the completely revised integrated web server that allows end customers to analyse inverter data in a cost efficient, user-friendly and even more graphic way. Furthermore, Steca has introduced optimised error

detection via a generator characteristic curve that can be called up on the inverter's display. This is a particularly user-friendly function.

The Global MPP Tracking function, which has also been enhanced, ensures optimum shade management for significantly higher yields. coolcept inverters are easy to use and reduce the costs of the overall system while boosting yields.

StecaLink bus – communicative charge controllers Communication is key, which is why Intersolar visitors will be positively surprised by this year's innovative integrated RS-485 communication interface, the so-called StecaLink bus. In off-grid systems, this interface allows the charge controller to act as communications master and exchange measurements and setting information with other devices. This makes for a complex system that collects and records all information in a central place.

Optionally, it can also calculate the battery's state of charge as a percentage (SOC). These highlights also help to reduce costs by saving on additional components as well as ensuring application flexibility

and raising the system's service life thanks to optimized battery maintenance. StecaLink bus: This ability to link multiple devices and their data creates a connected system which collects and records all information in a central place.

Storage systems – full speed ahead One of Steca Elektronik's core competencies is the use of power electronics in battery systems. At the Intersolar, the electronics specialist will present both a complete storage system based on coolcept devices and the various application options for electronic components in various storage systems.

Solar thermal applications – adapted for the future In 2016, solar industry experts may once again assure themselves of the user friendliness of Steca's solar thermal controllers. The current ErP Directive remains a controversial subject with uncontrolled pumps having been prohibited since August 2015. Since all Steca controllers have complied with the current Directive since last year, the electronics enterprise is holding all the cards ■

A flexible solutions for measurements of Wind Turbines The wind turns the blades of a wind turbine that is connected to a generator, and the generator converts the wind’s kinetic energy to electricity. The wind turbine Includes various sensors, the signals of which must be detected and converted into current and voltage signals. These must be transmitted to the Central control system over comparatively long distances. To transmit an interference free signal; galvanic isolators

should be placed in all signal lines.

VariTrans P 27000 is being used in a similar application at a wind power plant in Germany and has proven to be the ideal solution for this application. One advantage of this universal isolation amplifier is that input and output ranges can be selected with DIP switches, without the complicated re-adjustments. The galvanic isolation of up to 1000 V AC/DC across input

28 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

and output has proved successful for these measurements. It reliably protects the downstream data acquisition system and the different measurement channels.

Featuring a gain error of less than 0.08 % and a temperature coefficient below 0.005 %/K of full scale, the P 27000 ensures a constantly high transmission quality during operation ■

 www.supersmartenergy.com

Finance

GREEN BANK

Green Banks: New Investment Facilities for Clean Energy Deployment

P

ropelled by Climate change worries, high oil prices and increasing government support, clean energy solutions have proliferated in recent years. Clean energy solutions are slowly and steadily spreading through different states and regions in India and are helping to create new jobs and industries even as they reduce carbon pollution and provide energy choices for households and businesses.

For all of the recent success, achieving the target 175GW from renewable resources by 2022 will require the provision of unprecedented amounts of dependable, accessible, and fully-scaled capital. By conservative estimates, for India, to achieve the targeted generation capacities from renewable resources will require investment to the tune of $200 million over the duration of the target.

Currently a large scale solar or wind energy project gets a loan from Indian commercial banks with a high floating interest rate at about 12%. At the same time, the tenor of debt from these banks is not so long, it is only about 10-12 years. And when it comes to international financing, the higher costs of hedging can make the effective costs for international borrowing comparable to local sources. As per a report from the Climate Policy Initiative (CPI), these financing barriers can raise the cost of renewable energy in India by 24% to 32% compared with similar projects in the US. The Indian government has attempted to bridge this gap through a number of initiatives, such as the creation of Infrastructure Debt Funds and the National Clean Energy Fund.

But, these have not been able to mitigate all of the financing woes, and the sector is still looking for

30 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

solutions.

In order to achieve its targeted capacity addition from renewable resources India and its different states and regions need to find new ways to provide the financial support needed to shift the nation’s economy toward a lowcarbon future.

One of the models, which draws inspiration from the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) and several international experiments- entails the creation of clean energy finance banks or Green Banks that can combine scarce public resources with private-sector funds and then leverage the funds to invest in clean energy projects and energy industries.

What Is a Green Bank?

A green bank is a public or quasipublic financing institution that ďƒœ www.supersmartenergy.com

provides low-cost, long-term financing support to clean, lowcarbon projects by leveraging public funds through the use of various financial mechanisms to attract private investment so that each public dollar supports multiple dollars of private investment.

Depending on the state, a green bank may conform to a variety of structures, utilize many different public funds, and create a diverse array of financial products. Banks may utilize financial tools such as long-term and low interest rate loans, revolving loan funds, insurance products (such as loan guarantees or loan-loss reserves), and low-cost public investments or it may design new financial products. Ultimately, however, all green banks will exhibit several common characteristics: ii Stimulate demand by covering 100% of the upfront costs with a mixture of public and private financing; ii Leverage public funds by attracting much greater private investment to clean energy and efficiency markets; ii Recycle public capital so as to expand green investment and leave taxpayers unharmed; ii Reduce market inefficiencies; and ii Scale out clean energy solutions as fast as possible, maximizing clean electricity and efficiency gains per state dollar.

The Green Banks can achieve several goals, including increased deployment of clean energy, more

efficient use of public funds, and animation of mature private financial markets for clean energy investing.

Practical Models for such an Institution Although a green bank may take a variety of forms, there are generally three structures to consider.

First, as was done in Connecticut, the green bank can be standalone as a quasi-independent entity.

The Connecticut’s Clean Energy Finance and Investment Authority was established in the year 2011 as a quasi-public clean energy finance authority that combines several existing state clean energy and energy efficiency funds, enabling the new entity to make loans, and to leverage its capital with private capital, permitting private investment in and alongside the bank with the investors receiving a reasonable rate of return on their investments. This structure allows for the most flexibility and autonomy.

Another option is for the green bank to be housed within an existing state agency. This model repurposes portions of one or more of existing financing authorities from a grant to a lending model and then, through a partnership agreement, combines the financing authority’s funds with private funds. The New York Green Bank and Hawaii’s clean energy financing programs are examples of this model that operate within state agencies.

Lastly, a green bank may be incorporated into an infrastruc-

ture bank, where it would likely be established as a separate subsidiary. This model is similar to the second except that it combines a clean energy investment bank to fund energy projects with a bank lending to traditional infrastructure projects like roads, pipelines, and transmission lines. Under all these models, there are ample new market and profit opportunity for regional and commercial banks as well as community banks.

Role of a Green Bank The clean energy industry faces unique challenges in that it is highly asset-based and capitalintensive. What is more, most clean energy technologies face long technology and cost curves that more often than not deter private capital from investing either in a collection of small scale or in a handful of large scale clean energy projects.

As a result, despite the recent success of these new technologies in reducing their production and operating costs, in most cases the delivered cost of energy from clean energy projects remains higher than the delivered cost of energy from existing power generation facilities.

In light of these broad technology and pricing challenges, clean energy projects face both high capital needs and a scarcity of reasonably priced capital at every phase of the development pipeline from the research and devel-

»

Can IREDA become a Green Bank?

Does IREDA have the institutional flexibility to provide flexible, low-cost lending activity at the level of green banks?

Do IREDA’s sources of capital restrict how the money can be used (rates offered, markets served)?

Does IREDA’s legal status under the RBI prevent it from engaging in certain financing ac activities (loan loss reserves)?

Does IREDA’s mandate and internal expertise allow it to perform market development, demand generation ac activities?

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May/ June 2016 SmartEnergy

Finance opment phase to widespread market adoption.

The So-called “clean energy finance banks” or “green banks” are ideally suited to solve this problems because they offer a practical way for states to make available leveraged, low-cost financing for project developer.

First, they can be developed out of existing state programs while bringing into the enterprise the equivalent of substantial new resources given their ability to leverage funds. Likewise, because the banks would provide debt financing, they would be repaid on their loans, putting them in the position to borrow funds and to establish revolving loan funds that would provide funds that could be reinvested without new sources of financing.

Furthermore, Green Banks, if established as independent institutions, would be able to issue revenue bonds without the full faith and credit of the state and without the restrictions facing

states, which have limited borrowing capacity. Finally, clean energy finance banks could efficiently seek large investors with patient, long-term capital who are seeking a long-term, conservative rate of return, such as pension fund investors.

Banks offer a practical way to make available low-cost financing for project developers and keep the clean energy economy growing.

Green Banks, in this regard, hold great promise for financing deployment of clean energy projects with low technology risks, including projects using existing wind and solar technologies. Such clean energy projects, because of their low technology risk and low financing risk should be able to attract bond purchasers interested in long-term, safe returns and thus willing to accept rates of return at a conservative level.

By providing standby purchase agreements or total return swaps, the clean energy finance bank could even increase the potential pool of tax equity investors by lowering the risk profile of such investments.

In order to generate 175 GW of renewable energy by 2022 and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions intensity by 33 to 35 percent from 2005 levels by 2030, India has set ambitions goals for five key sectors: 1) ground-mounted, large-scale solar, 2) rooftop solar, 3) off-grid solar, 4) wind energy, and 5) energy efficiency. Green banks are designed to address local market and policy failures, tailored to the specific context. As has been demonstrated internationally, green banks can provide financing solutions to help each specific sector grow in India. Not all will be appropriate to the Indian context, actual opportunities will be determined through detailed market research.

Along these lines, the Green

Green Bank: Context

Indian

CONNECTICUT’S CLEAN ENERGY FINANCE AND INVESTMENT AUTHORITY (CEFIA) About CEFIA CEFIA is a quasi-public financing authority that provides financial support to clean energy projects in the state of Connecticut. CEFIA’s goal is to attract and deploy private capital to finance clean energy projects in Connecticut so that clean energy may be affordable and accessible to all consumers.

CEFIA’S Scope and Characteristics CEFIA’s programs support projects that focus specifically on clean energy.

Types of projects funded: CEFIA generally funds projects that use proven technologies that have existing, yet limited, deployment opportunities, rather than technologies that are still in early development or demonstration stages.

CEFIA is authorized to finance up to

32 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

80 percent of clean energy project investments and up to 100 percent of energy efficiency project investments, although the bank aims to provide “a tranche of the debt financing wherever possible and not 100 percent of the loan” for all of its investments.

As CEFIA programs develop and demonstrate success, private investors are likely to offer increasing proportions of finance to clean energy project deals.

Financing tools offered: Examples of financing tools include direct lending and co-lending, on-bill financing (coming April 1, 2014), credit enhancements, and commercial property-assessed clean energy (C-PACE) programs Risk Management CEFIA utilizes a variety of mechanisms, particularly reserves and

credit enhancements, to manage and reduce its risk. In doing so, CEFIA attracts private investors to clean energy projects. As CEFIA makes more financial transactions, creating a larger sample and longer track record, it will be able to better estimate how much risk it needs to take and adjust its risk management activities (such as reserve rates or payback timescales) accordingly.

Selected Programs CEFIA has funded a variety of energy efficiency or renewable energy projects. Some examples are as below › Dominion Bridgeport Fuel Cell Park: › Residential Solar Investment Program (RSIP) and many others ■

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ii Reduce cost of domestic capital by of¬fering lower rates, fixed interest rates, and longer debt tenors to attract inter¬national investment. ii Mobilize attractive debt capital ii Serve as a foreign-exchange hedging facility to reduce currency risks ii Mitigate risk through credit enhance¬ments tools such as guarantees ii Increase transparency ii Share best practices, information and data about project technology and performance to help grow the market ii Facilitate warehousing to aggregate small rooftop installation projects into larger projects attractive for investors ii Facility development of business mod¬els based on leasing and third party financing for rooftop solar PV at lower costs to over-

come investment barriers ii Work with utilities, distribution com¬panies, states and municipalities to develop and implement rooftop solar programs based on property taxes, on-bill charges, etc. ii Green Banks can work with MNRE to fa¬cilitate grid infrastructure for wind power ii Pool wind farm assets to facilitate repayment

Conclusion One of the greatest benefits of the Green bank model is its ability to leverage investment from and share costs with private investors. This, in addition to offering return-generating financing tools, allows for the most efficient and least risky use of public and private funds. Green Banks set themselves apart by utilizing a revolving fund, meaning that programs aim to eventually be self-sustaining,

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eventually requiring no additional outside capital. Moreover, because they are able to afford more risk than the private sector, Green Banks have the potential to experiment with a variety of finance mechanisms, not only improving upon existing ones, but developing entirely new tools for the market to work to adopt in subsequent years through the green banks’ help.

Despite these key characteristics, the effectiveness of Green Bank will be hindered without continued government support for clean energy. The government’s policies, incentives, and resources are an existing structure upon which Green Banks build their operations. While Green Banks have potential to accomplish clean energy goals, India will still need a big picture framework for the transformation of our energy system ■

Cover Story - Cover Image Courtesy Imergy Power Systems

INDIA POISED FOR Rapid Growth in

Energy Storage

34 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

 www.supersmartenergy.com

India is a rapidly developing energy hungry nation. On the one hand we have industrialization and development and on the other hand there are over 400 million people with no access to electricity. With the PM promising to provide each household with at least one light bulb by 2019, renewable energy is set to plan an important role in fulfilling this dream. Energy storage is going to be a critical link in providing electricity to the remotest location and in transforming the nation towards a clean and sustainable future. In this article Rohan Singh take a look at the rapidly growing energy storage market in India, the key drivers and the challenges in capturing the full value of energy storage technologies.

R

enewables have been remarkably successful in providing a sustainable solution to our energy needs. Tariffs are falling and we have huge deployment of renewable energy spread across the country. We have about 300 sunny days a year and a number of good wind sites. Hoping to make productive use of its geographical advantages, India has scaled up its target to generate 175 GW through solar and wind by the year 2022. Everything looks rosy but there is a missing link in this success story. The sun doesn’t always shine, and the wind doesn’t always blow.

A power plant requires the continuous source of fuel to be commercially viable .But call it the paradox of nature, you can’t control the supply of solar or wind, despite they being abundantly available. Sometimes it may be cloudy, or the wind may not be blowing, or it may be the night time. And electric grids cannot function unless they are able to balance supply and demand. Any imbalance can result in voltage fluctuations and inconsistency in the power supply. High intermittency of renewable energy makes

its supply uncertain and the grid unstable. One of the most effective solutions for addressing this high intermittency while allowing scale up of these technologies is the use of energy storage systems.

Energy storage can act as a capacity in the entire energy value chain from generation to transmission, distribution and loads.

What is Storage?

Energy

Electricity storage is a three-step process that consists of drawing electricity from the grid, storing it and returning it at a later stage. It consists of two dimensions: the power capacity of the charging and discharging phases, which defines the efficiency of the storage system to withdraw or inject electricity instantaneously from or into the grid; and the energy capacity of the storing phase, which measures how much energy can be stored and for how long. As a consequence, electricity storage has very different uses, depending on the combination of the power rating and discharge

»

ENERGY STORAGE MARKET IN INDIA

200GWh BY 2022

Over 50% of demand is expected from newer applications like wind & solar integration, frequency regulation, peak management, T&D deferral, diesel usage optimisation & electric vehicles.

50-100MW demonstration projects likley to get announced in 2016

Power 4 All 100 Smart Cities 160GW of variable RE generation catalyst for the growth of ES market in India

35

May/ June 2016 SmartEnergy

Cover Story time of a device, its location within the grid and its response time.

NTPC STORAGE SYSTEM

Globally Energy Storage Technologies are expected to play a crucial role in shifting to large scale renewable energy. They can help manage the problems of fluctuating generation and regulating generation to match demand. All major economies have specialized focus on this area. Mckinsey has identified storage technologies as one of the 12 most important technologies for future.

India's largest energy conglomerate National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) seems to be taking inspiration from Tesla. The company is developing a battery that can store the energy from the solar plants. NTPC ltd will soon call bids to set up such a megawatt level storage facility in Andaman and Nicobar islands. Megawatt scale batteries are already available but they are costly. NTPC wants to develop a storage system which is technically and commercially viable .Although the project is at the R&D stage only , NTPC is in serious talks with Tesla to use their expertise in the matter. NTPC's plan is believed to be a part of India's overall energy strategy which aims at generating 100 GW of solar energy by the year 2022. This will also help in bringing the solar tariff further down. NTPC is also studying the grid scale battery storage solution.The project will be awarded on the basis of competitive bids.

Benefits of Energy Storage Systems Power Quality and Reliability: Grid connected power quality events are voltage sags and interruptions with durations of less than 2 seconds, phenomena that lend themselves to energy storage-based solutions .

Load Shifting: Load shifting is achieved by utilizing EES for storage of energy during periods of low demand and releasing the stored energy during periods of high demand. Load shifting comes in several different forms; the most common is peak shaving.

Frequency - In grids with a significant share of wind generation, intermittency and variability in wind generation output due to sudden shifts in wind patterns can lead to significant imbalances between generation and load, that in turn result in shifts in grid frequency. Such imbalances are usually handled by spinning reserve at the transmission level, but energy storage can provide prompt response to such imbalances without the emissions related to most conventional solutions.

Transmission Curtailment Reduction: Wind power generation is often located in remote areas that are poorly served by transmission and distribution systems. As a result, sometimes wind operators are asked to curtail their production, that results in lost energy

production opportunity, or system operators are required to invest in expanding the transmission capability. An Energy Storage Systems unit located close to the wind generation can allow the excess energy to be stored and then delivered at times when the transmission system is not congested.

Time Shifting: Wind turbines are considered as non-dispatchable resources. Energy Storage Systems can be used to store energy generated during periods of low demand and deliver it during periods of high demand.

Energy storage can act as a capacity in the entire energy value chain- generation, transmission, distribution and loads. The greater use of storage will help the transition from centralized generation to distributed generation with attended benefits of improving energy access and availability, security, quality and efficiency.

Types of Energy Storage Systems:

36 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

Energy Storage is a technology that has been adopted for many years.

The technology used behind ESS includes Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES), Flywheel, Pumped Hydro and batteries.

Compressed Air Energy storage (CAES) systems use off-peak electricity to compress air, storing it in underground caverns or storage tanks. This air is later released to a combustor in a gas turbine to generate electricity during peak periods.

Flywheels are mechanical devices that spin at high speeds, storing electricity as rotational energy. This energy is later released by slowing down the flywheel’s rotor, releasing quick bursts of energy (i.e. releases of high power and short duration).

Pumped storage hydropower (PSH) systems utilise elevation changes to store off-peak electricity for later use. Water is pumped from a lower reservoir to a reservoir at a higher elevation during off-peak periods. Subsequently, water is allowed to flow back down

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ENERGY STORAGE APPLICATIONS Day Night

PV M od

ul e

Diesel ES

OffGrid RF

ES Generator

SMPS* PIU*

Server UPS

Internet Data Center

Grdi USE/ ES

Use & Charge Day USE/ Night

to the lower reservoir, generating electricity in a fashion similar to a conventional hydropower plant.

Batteries use chemical reactions with two or more electrochemical cells to enable the flow of electrons. Examples include lithium-based batteries (ex: lith-

ium-ion, lithium polymer), sodium sulphur, and lead-acid batteries.

Currently battery has become main stream as technologies such as NaS, Lithium-ion, Lead-acid and flow batteries have begun to participate in various worldwide projects.

Lead Acid Vs Lithiumion batteries Within the scope of off grid renewable systems, lead acid and Lithium-ion based batteries currently dominate the industry. Lead acid

» May/ June 2016 SmartEnergy 37

Cover Story

Panasonic India Pvt. Ltd. and US- based energy provider AES India Private Limited have announced an agreement to construct a 10 MW energy storage array at Panasonic’s Techno park manufacturing facility in Jhajjar, Haryana. has been around for over 100 years and is likely to be a market force for the foreseeable future due to its low cost and established manufacturing base. Lithium-ion is a well established technology for portable electronics but is still finding its role in larger scale applications; it is emerging as a contender in certain stationary applications where volume, weight, temperature sensitivity or low maintenance is more important than initial cost.

Given the significant differences in technical and economic characteristics of the battery types, it stands to reason that the “best” solution for which battery type to use is application specific.

Lithium-ion has significantly higher cycle life than lead acid in deep discharge applications. The disparity is further increased as ambient temperatures increase.

The cycle life of each chemistry can be increased by limiting the depth of discharge (DoD), discharge rate, and temperature, but lead acid is generally much more sensitive to each of these factors.

When determining what capacity of battery to use for a system, a critical consideration for lead acid is how long the system will take to discharge. The shorter the discharge period, the less capacity is available from the lead acid battery.

Lead acid batteries compare poorly to lithium-ion with regards to environmental friendliness.

Lead acid batteries require many times more raw material than lithium-ion to achieve the same energy storage, making a much larger impact on the environment during the mining process. The lead processing industry is also very energy intensive, leading to large amounts of pollution.

Although lead is highly hazardous to human health, the manufacturing methods and battery packaging make the human risk negligible. On the plus side, majority of lead acid batteries are recycled, which makes a huge impact on the environmental equation.

Though, Lithium is also not without its own environmental problems and it is expected that that lithium-ion recycling rates will rival lead acid.

The general conclusion of the comparison is that while the most cost effective solution is dependent upon a number of factors, there is a large market segment where lithium-ion has a lower cost of ownership when compared to lead acid.

Energy Storage Scenario in India India is poised for rapid adoption of energy storage and micro

38 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

grid technologies in the coming decade. Outlook is positive and opportunities abound in fastgrowing market like India. Energy storage technologies are gaining recognition as the key enabler for key priorities for Indian policy makers such as smart cities, renewable integration and energy access.

Energy storage will play a key role in enabling India to develop a low-carbon electricity system.

Energy storage can supply more flexibility and balancing to the grid, providing a back-up to intermittent renewable energy. Locally, it can improve the management of distribution networks, reducing costs and improving efficiency. In this way, it can ease the market introduction of renewables, accelerate the decarbonisation of the electricity grid, improve the security and efficiency of electricity transmission and distribution (reduce unplanned loop flows, grid congestion, voltage and frequency variations), stabilise market prices for electricity, while also ensuring a higher security of energy supply.

The existing legal/regulatory and policy framework in India provides support to the development of energy storage devices at large scale. The Government is also working on a Net Metering Policy that will allow customers with an eligible power generator

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MARKET PARTICIPANTS Imergy ESP Imergy combines the power of proprietary chemistry and advanced technology to deliver groundbreaking sustainable solutions for storing and sharing energy. Imergy’s proven ESP product family reduces energy costs and provide with better power quality, reliability and resilience. This turnkey energy storage solution is inherently scalable with available powers ranging from kilowatts to multiple megawatts and, independently, with available energy ranging from two to twelve hours output duration.

Imergy’s solutions integrate seamlessly with intermittent renewable power sources in applications ranging from grid-connected commercial buildings, to islanding smart microgrids, to utility-scale solar and wind, and enable multiple benefits such as demand cost reduction, shifting peak generation to match peak load, and operation regardless of grid failure.

ACME- EcoGrid Committed towards promoting and creating energy efficient solutions for the future, ACME Group, India’s leading clean energy player, announced its strategically positioned EcoGrid – India’s first Lithium-Ion based Energy Storage System for sale in India.

EcoGrid is a 5kVA Plug-and-Play Energy Storage Solution powered through technologically advanced and sustainable Lithium-Ion batteries with a lifecycle of over 10 years. This is the country first of its kind high energy power back-up solution that combines the appeal of green energy, the convenience of power back-up and the strength of high-end storage system for uninterrupted power supply.

Fronius Symo Hybrid The heart of the storage solution for 24 hours of sun. With power categories from 3.0 to 5.0 kW, the three-phase inverter allows Surplus energy from a photovoltaic system to be temporarily stored in the Fronius Solar Battery. The builtin Multi Flow Technology enables the energy flows to be intelligently managed.

Delta E5 Energy Storage System The Hybrid E5 energy storage system is composed of the RPI E5 hybrid inverter as well as an external battery cabinet equipped with a 7.4 kWh Li-ion battery, a smart meter and smart energy management box. The Hybrid E5 storage system is designed for new PV systems and features a high charging efficiency up to 97 %.

The smart meter monitors energy flow and sends the data back to the smart energy manager box, the intelligence in the system.

The smart energy manager box not only controls the E5 inverter and battery functionality in an optimized way but it also serves as a gateway to the internet and provides complete energy and battery data coming from the system for online viewing.

39

May/ June 2016 SmartEnergy

Cover Story to offset the cost of their electric usage with energy they export to the grid. So far, around 14 States have released net metering policies which give consumer a provision to install Rooftop PV at their premises. Most of such systems will involve energy storage systems like inverters with batteries.

The Ministry of Power has approved National Smart Grid Mission (NSGM) which has set aggressive targets for Micro grids which will require energy storage technologies. Microgrids will play an important role in solving energy problems in India. Microgrids along with storage will allow for fast installation of electricity supply without the need for expensive transmission infrastructure investments and the lengthy development approval and construction process.

In COP21 in Paris, India specifically mentioned development of Energy Storage Systems for Renewable Energy as one its key commitments for reducing carbon emissions to a tune of 33% to 35% by the year 2030 as compared to 2005. As part of this effort, MNRE released Expression of Interest for demonstration projects last year, which received tremendous response from all the stakeholders. The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) is also in process of gathering inputs from various stakeholders to introduce specific policies to fast track adoption of storage technologies in India.

India is still in the earliest stages of energy storage deployment. Right now there is push for renewable especially Solar from the Government & if it really works the way we are aiming, there will be a huge explosion in demand and with that we need storage, otherwise it will not work.

Conclusion: The total energy storage market between 2015 and 2022, in India

is estimated by India Energy Storage Alliance (IESA) which is close to 70GW and 200GWh. Out of 70GW, over 35 GW of demand is expected from newer applications like wind and solar integration, frequency regulation, peak management, T&D deferral, diesel replacement and electric vehicles.

Hence there is a sizable opportunity for advanced storage technologies in the new applications itself apart from opportunity for existing technologies to improve their performance for traditional applications.

Lack of reliable grid power, growth in sales of electric rickshaws (e-trikes), reduction in use of diesel gensets and integration of solar PV with the grid at both ground level, roof-top level and at micro-grids is likely to boost the sales of battery based energy storage through-out the country.

Some of these applications are growing at over 35% year on year.

Advanced energy storage technologies have already started penetrating the Indian ESS market with Li-ion already being implemented in telecom towers. Flow batteries likely to gain market in diesel replacement, micro-grid and solar integration market in couple of years. Nickel based batteries are gaining momentum in applications like standby support

40 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

for C&I consumer.

The Indian market is slowly gaining understanding of both the newer energy storage technologies and their applications.

The market stake holders want to witness the proof of concept. For this to happen, the policy makers and the government need to step in with demonstration projects and incentives like Viability Gap Funding (VGF), Accelerated Depreciation (AD) benefits, etc. for the energy storage projects.

At the same time, many factors influence the deployment of energy storage beyond technology cost and performance.

The widespread deployment of these technologies is particularly dependent on achieving acceptable cost recovery. Current policy environments and market conditions often cloud the cost of energy services, creating significant price distortions. A key to achieving widespread storage technology deployment is enabling compensation for the multiple services performed across the energy system. A patchwork approach to creating an energy storage market will not be able to capture the full value of energy storage technologies â–

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Changing the Energy Landscape Authored by: Anil Kadam

A

microgrid manages distributed energy resources and interconnected energy loads within a defined electrical boundary like a campus or business park. Distributed energy resources can include both traditional fossil fuel generators and renewable energy resources, like solar, working together.

This intelligent system operates as a single controllable entity working in parallel with the utility grid or in an optional islanded mode where it disconnects from the grid and operates under its own power. In short, it keeps the electricity flowing to critical loads regardless of available utility services.

Think of a microgrid as a conductor working to keep your energy system in harmony. That means carefully balancing supply and demand in both on-grid and

islanded modes, as well as safely managing the switch back and forth, all while maintaining power stability and quality to protect your infrastructure and equipment.

Energy users are quickly realizing the importance of local energy generation and managing renewable energy resources efficiently.

Severe storms, power outages, aging energy infrastructure and rising costs have created a period of energy uncertainty. In today’s high-tech world, our prosperity and well-being depend on an uninterrupted flow of low-cost electricity.

Introduction of microgrids is shifting control of our electricity system to the end user, making it more decentralized and democratic. These solutions are providing large electricity consumers with energy independence, where power is more reliable and stormresilient. And while it’s critical to have back-up generation when the

42 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

central grid fails, there are also many other benefits that come with microgrids and distributed energy generation.

Distributed energy resources (DER) and microgrids are proliferating rapidly within utility distribution systems and the benefits to the utility results in reverse power flow and also impact the voltage system of an electrical distributor. Utilities are therefore faced with the challenge of planning for and coordinating these diverse resources - such as microgrids and mitigating their impacts on the distribution network.

Micro-grids In spotlight We need to consider the below trends which have emerged in the energy sector: ›› Willingness to reduce dependency on imported fossil fuels by switching to local renewable energies  www.supersmartenergy.com

›› slow progress of electrification that makes new approaches to it mandatory These trends have brought the so-called microgrids back into the spotlight. A type of electrical grid that involves integrating smaller, self-generating grids, they are integrated energy systems that interconnect Distributed Energy Resources (DER). Under this term are controllable loads, generation that can come from renewables, and other disruptive technologies such as batteries and electric vehicles. Microgrids comprise elements such as energy storage, Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC), factories that operate using their own photovoltaic generation, wind power, and residential consumers themselves. The combination of these controllable loads, local generation, and storage points can substantially reduce transmission losses thanks to their close proximity to end users.

Microgrids can be permanently or temporarily isolated from the main grid and supply themselves with their own energy at particular times. In the event of main grid supply failure, for example, microgrids can maintain supply internally by carrying out load shedding of specific resources, if needed, to maintain their balance.

In addition to operating independently, microgrids can operate in parallel with the main grid.

The consequence of this flexibility is smarter energy management: local power generation can be managed in line with local demand, minimizing exchanges at the point of connection between

Powering with Micro-grid: Two US born – Nikhil Jaisinghani and Brian Shaad – saw this as an untapped market and incorporated “Mera gao Power” in 2009.

microgrid and grid, and thereby freeing grid resources.

Although microgrids are conceptually similar to large grids, their small size makes them prone to instabilities. For example, whereas in the main grid the largest generation asset represents less than 3 percent of total generating capacity, in a microgrid it might be more than 20 percent.

This makes resilience to its loss much more difficult to achieve.

With a large share, if not all, of its generation being variable renewables, such as wind or solar, a smart microgrid based on four basic pillars becomes necessary: a smart network, smart operations, smart metering, and smart generation.

Thanks to sensors and automation, a smart network is flexible and provides the control mechanisms required to improve load distribution or effectively accommodate changes in the network in milliseconds. Smart metering delivers real-time information about consumption and trends.

Smart generation contributes to overall stability thanks to ancillary services. Smart operation is the conduc-

tor that enables all of these new elements to work together, thanks to forecasting and overall optimization, and to integrate into the traditional grid.

With those four pillars in a subset of the main grid, a utility and its networks will see reduced energy losses, improved service quality, strengthened resiliency, higher renewable penetration, and might even be able to defer some investments in substations and network reinforcement.

For microgrids to successfully operate as off-grid entities, their implementations must fully apply those concepts and controls.

Boiled down, useful microgrids require two main ingredients: the management of demand and a dynamic approach to overall system configuration ■ About the Author:

Anil Kadam is Senior Manager, Energy Business, Schneider Electric India.

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May/ June 2016 SmartEnergy

Smart Cities

An Integral Part of Smart Cities Authored by: Satish Kumar

W

ith the Indian Government releasing a list of the first 20 of the 100 smart cities, global solutions providers have almost queued up with smart solutions ranging from smart metering, healthcare, transportation and smart lighting. Companies such was Philips Lighting launched the ‘Phillips Hue’, claimed as the world’s most dynamic web-enabled LED home lighting system in India. The personal wireless system allows users to create and control home lighting with their smartphone or tablet.

As the Government revs up its plans to create Smart Cities across the length and breadth of the country, lighting, or more appropriately, smart LED lighting systems could lead the way in developing these smart cities.

The world today is discovering several advantages of switching over to LED technology from CFLs and other means of conventional lighting, the immediate one being energy efficiency. Where the public lighting infrastructure

already exists, conversion to LED technology is increasingly underway or planned. For instance, the city of Boston, by the end of 2012, had converted 40% of its 64,000 electric street lamps to LEDs, resulting in about 35% savings ($2.8 million) in annual electricity costs.

Efficiency and Savings In spite of higher initial investments compared to conventional lighting, LEDs work out to be more cost effective due to their longevity and other benefits like being more energy efficient, safer to use and cheaper maintenance cost. Unlike earlier street-lighting technologies, LED lamps can be dimmed, creating new opportunities to integrate smart public lighting into smart cities for even greater power savings. Under the older technology, all the high-intensity discharge lamps were either ON or OFF, thereby allowing public lighting departments to choose the times to turn all the lights On and Off. The LED streetlights, in contrast, provide variable output

44 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

levels, thus opening up opportunities for innovative schemes that provide appropriate light for safety and convenience without wasting energy by producing more light than is needed. Since they can be integrated with sensors and remote controls, the LED lights could be switched On, Off, Dimmed or Brightened (as programmed) during varying hours of the day or in different seasons.

The usage of LEDs as street lights, at homes and in offices within the smart cities can lead to savings of around 30 % annually, according to experts and the companies engaged in their production. Besides, smart street lighting can be integrated with intelligent systems like the traffic light controls, closed circuit cameras, among others. This will require the smart lights to be based upon open, adaptable systems through which the smart LED lighting could become an integral part of the Internet of Things (IoT). Lighting and other devices will need to be IOT-ready to form an intrinsic part

»

 www.supersmartenergy.com

Smart Cities of the Smart Cities programme, thus making the operators more efficient, smarter, safer, sustainable and innovative. This “Smartification” will further enable the illumination of various urban areas precisely, according to needs and in a concerted way.

Light masts as recharging stations for vehicle batteries Reports say that these urban LED solutions for lighting can take a significant step further, providing not only major energy savings potential but also new services for citizens. Lantern posts can become multi-functional stations that in addition to providing traditional lighting can also serve as data stations with sensors, monitor parking spaces and communicate information about these, or recharge the batteries of an electric car. Street light in residential areas can be controlled according to the density or speed of vehicles.

Light can be dimmed, for example, if few cars are driven at night. This saves energy overheads.

A right balance will be essential between benefiting from innovations and managing new safety, security, privacy and performance risks as the cities absorb newer technologies. There is a possibility

of interconnection, leaving lighting systems vulnerable to cybersecurity attacks, from low level threats such as a neighborhood kid hacking into a home’s smart meter system and switch lights on and off as a prank, to a higher level threat like a criminal hacker penetrating a hospital and taking control of the lighting system.

In one of the initiatives to combat smart city cybersecurity risks, UL is working with the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) to modify existing urban standards and develop new standards to secure the connectivity and interoperability of street lights. It is further developing safety and security standards for street light manufacturers by introducing Internet-connected light poles that will serve as wireless networking access points to enable citizens and city managers to take advantage of ubiquitous connectivity.

How UL can help to validate product for right decision making while choosing energy efficient and safe products:

per various National/International standards such as IES LM-79, IS 16106 to verify the correct Lux levels as well as to verify the electrical characteristics of various Indoor/Outdoor LED Lighting products thus making them safer and more energy efficient.

IES LM standards as well as IS 16106 are used to verify the Colorimetric and Photometric characteristics of the LED products.

Lighting recommendations as per the National Lighting Code are as below for Outdoor Luminaires Safety Testing for Luminaires: UL can assist in making product more safer by testing as various standards like IEC 60598/IS 10322, which consists of various tests as indicated below: ii Endurance Test to verify the reliability of various components in the end product ii Thermal Test to verify the thermal properties of insulation and various other components

Energy Efficiency/Photometry Testing:

ii Ingress Protection to verify protection of dust, moisture entering into the product and thus making it more safer in severe environmental conditions

UL tests/verifies the products as

ii Construction of product in

Lighting recommendations as per the National Lighting Code Sr. Classification of No. Lighting Installation

Type of Road

Average Illuminance Uniformity on Road Surface Ratio Emin/ Eavg

Transverse Uniformity (Emin/Emax)

01

Group A1

Important traffic routes carrying fast traffic

30

0.4

0.33

02

Group A2

Other main roads carrying mixed traffic like main city strrets, arterial roads and throughway roads

15

0.4

0.33

03

Group B1

Secondary roads with considerable traffic like principal local traffic routes and shopping

08

0.3

0.2

04

Group B2

Secondary roads with light traffic

04

0.3

0.2

46 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

 www.supersmartenergy.com

terms of clearance, creepage distances within live parts, live parts to accessible metals parts etc. ii Resistance to heat, fire and tracking for plastic components ii Insulation Resistance, HV tests to verify withstanding capability of Insulation ii Mechanical Strength of various components and the product We also verify the Photo biological Safety of LED Chips detrimental to human eye.

ControlGear being the most critical component of the Luminaire is very critical to be evaluated and judged for its Performance and Safety characteristics.

Life and performance of the Lumaire is dependent on how the Controlgear performs within the product.

UL also tests ControlGear used in the LED Luminaire for its Safety as well as Performance characteristics.

IS 15885/IEC 61347 is being used to test for safety requirements and IS 16104/IEC 62384

is being used to evaluate Performance characteristics. Common tests being conducted for Controlgear are as below: ii Transformer Heating to verify the thermal characteristics of the Transformer ii Fault Condition testing to operate the components in various possible faults like Open Circuit, Short Circuit, Overload/Under load etc.

with building automation and energy management. These interlinked technologies must be governed by safety standards to realize the full potential of a smart city and drive innovation further.

With the government’s Domestic Efficient Lighting Programme gaining ground, smart lighting could perhaps be taken beyond the chosen smart cities, thereby putting India on the global map for energy efficiency.

ii Electric Strength Test ii Moisture Resistance at 95% Humidity to verify operation of components at high humid conditions. ii Performance parameters like LED Drive Current, Efficiency, Power Factor and other electrical parameters. ii Endurance Test for 200hrs at maximum rated casing temperature.

Conclusion Lighting, one of the most vital parts of a smart city’s infrastructure, is increasingly integrated

About the Author: Satish Kumar is Mechanical Engineer with 14 years of experience in Quality, Testing and Certification in HVAC, Home Appliances segment.

Presently working as Engineering Leader for HVAC, Appliances and Components section in UL India Pvt. Ltd.

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Join our mailing list to get updates from the Solar and Wind Industry in India*

*selected individuals joining the mailing list will get a free copy of Smart Energy Magazine couriered to their address.

47

May/ June 2016 SmartEnergy

Photovoltaics Case Study

Water-free PV Panel Cleaning: Better for Everyone Authored by: Eran Meller

P

rime Minister Modi’s commitment to deliver 100 GW of solar by 2022 is inspiring and exciting, and is transforming India into a global leader in clean energy.

Elsewhere, however, the nation still faces extreme challenges in many areas of basic infrastructure – access to clean drinking water being perhaps the most urgent of these. While these two issues may on the surface seem unrelated, they in fact intersect, with important implications for the future of the solar industry.

PV panels need to be clean in order to transform sunlight into energy. Even minor buildup of dust over a few days can negatively impact the production efficiency of panels. If dust is left to accumulate on panels, the production efficiency can drop by 30% or more, meaning solar sites are not producing as well as they could be.

The result is lower energy produc-

tion- but also lost revenue for the companies that invested to build those farms in the first place.

that can continue and why solar companies must move to waterfree solutions.

Unfortunately, the primary method of cleaning solar PV panels is with a mop and water – lots of water. A single large-scale utility solar park of 100 MW (providing power for potentially over 100,000 homes) can expect to use 355 million liters of water throughout its lifetime. Some of that might fall from the sky- but the vast majority of it has to be brought in by tanker trucks or supplied via local water wells only to be sloshed liberally over the panels. In various locations all over the country, right now, teams of workers are pouring water onto solar panels and scrubbing them free of dust and dirt. When those same workers return home at night they might not have water to drink.

First and foremost, solar site operators will not be able to continue to use water for cleaning when the people in the nearest village don’t have it to drink, cook, or clean. It must be preserved so that it can be provided where it is needed the most. So urgent is the need that eventually companies will be forced to find alternative solutions or else deal with disruptions, protests and theft as waterpoor people living nearby learn of the resource and resent how it’s being used.

In a country under such water stress, this is simply not a solution

48 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

The good news is that there’s an also strong economic reason for companies to abandon waterbased cleaning solutions. Using water to clean panels doesn’t just mean companies need to purchase the water. They also need to transport it, not an insignifi www.supersmartenergy.com

cant cost considering that many solar sites reside in arid locations away from major centers. There’s also associated infrastructuresites have to have holding tanks, pipelines, hoses, and reverse osmosis,and it all needs to be maintained.

damage to panels. Sites maintain peak production efficiency without wasting water. To ensure that there’s no question of the benefit, we also developed the robots to operate under their own solar module and battery, keeping operation costs extremely low.

There’s also an inherent cost to cleaning panels using manual laborers and brushes in that laborers, being human, occasionally make mistakes. Panels can be damaged. Even micro fractures caused by harsh brushing can quickly come to impact the production efficiency of the solar module. If modules have been impregnated with an anti-reflective coating, brushes can destroy its benefits in months.

The idea is catching on. Given the choice between sloshing millions of liters of water over solar panels and a cheaper option that uses no water and provides better results, companies are responding accordingly and working to incorporate our solution at their sites.

This year Ecoppia is on track to deploy its technology with several of India’s largest energy players, with many more in the pipeline.

The Ecoppia autonomous solution is tackling these problems head-on. We developed a PV panel-cleaning robot that uses no water while providing a consistent, nightly cleaning that ensures no

That’s good news for India’s clean energy future and the state of the water resource. On the one hand Ecoppia is helping to make clean energy even cleaner, and on the other hand preserving water for where it’s needed the most.

BANGALORE-MYSORE-HUBLI-MUMBAI

Providing water-free solar site cleaning is a win-win scenario, and the sooner it’s adopted, the better it is for both the booming solar industry and the people of India ■

About the Author Eran Meller is the CEO and co-founder of Ecoppia, a designer and producer of photovoltaic panel cleaning solutions.

He has also served as a CFO for numerous innovative organizations such as Telmap, X-Tip and Info-X and worked with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the private arm of the World Bank Group in which he managed multiple projects in Africa that brought economical as well as social benefits to the local society.

49

B-21/2, 1st Floor, KSSIDC Industrial Estate, Veerasandra, Hosur Road, Electronic City Post, Bengaluru- 560100, India May/ June 2016

Tel: +91 80 65356633, Fax: +91 80 22234339, E-mail: info@urjasolutions.com, skype: raj.urja URL:SmartEnergy www.urjasolutions.com

Policy Update

Haryana Solar Power Policy, 2016 I

n an environment where the demand for energy and power is growing rapidly the state of Haryan seeks to build on renewable energy and be a part of the drive that is taking a firm shape in the entire country. To this effect the Haryana government has come up with solar policy 2016 to promote generation of green and clean power.

Solar Renewable Energy Purchase Obligation (RPO): The Regulatory Commission of Haryana so far has prescribed the Solar RPO of 3% by the year 2021-22.

The MNREy, Government of India is planning to scale up the ambitious target to add 100 GW of solar power by 2022. To achieve this target, the Ministry is planning to raise the solar renewable purchase obligation (RPO) targets for obligated entities to 8% from the current level of 3%. For Haryana State, this will translate to installed capacity of 3200 MW solar power by the year 2021-22.

To achieve the solar RPO, following initiatives shall be taken by the Government: (a) Installation of ground mounted MW scale solar power plants. (b) Installation of solar power plants by the Haryana Power Generation Corporations on its land. (c) Development of solar parks through Saur Urja Nigam Haryana Ltd. (d) Installation of solar power plants under schemes of MNRE like VGF scheme, unemployed youth/farmers scheme and purchase of power under bundling scheme of National Vidyut Vyapar Nigam Ltd. (NVVNL)/NTPC. (e) Installation of solar power plants on canal banks. (f) Rooftop grid connected solar power plants through net

metering. (g) Rooftop grid connected solar power plants on cluster of Govt. / PSU buildings.

GROUND MOUNTED POWER PROJECTS The ground mounted MW scaled power projects in Haryana will be set up through open competitive bidding tenders. Each bid will comprise of the power required to be purchased for fulfilling the RPO plus 20% additional power for allocation to the small generators of 1MW to 2 MW capacity.

HPPC will purchase solar power over and above the RPO obligation subject to a limit of 200 MW. A price preference of 2% will be given to the solar power generators of 1MW to 2 MW capacity who set up their plants within the territory of Haryana State.

Development of Soar Parks: “Saur Urja Nigam Haryana Limited” (SUN Haryana) a JV between HSIIDC and HPGCL will set up Solar Parks in the State.

Solar Power Projects set up on Canal tops/banks: The setting up of MW scale Solar Power Plants on canals tops/banks shall be encouraged as per the guidelines and incentives issued by MNRE, Government of India, from time to time. The bidder shall be selected through open competitive bidding by a separate tender by HPPC. The entire power from the Solar Power Plant shall be purchased by HPPC, if need be, to meet their RPO, at the tariff so discovered. They shall be provided with all the benefits as provided for Ground Mounted Megawatt scale Power Projects including free evacuation facility irrespective of the distance by the State.

Panchayat Land on Lease /Rent basis: The Government of Haryana will facilitate the lease/sub-lease

50 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

of Panchayat land at reasonable rates through SUN Haryana (Saur Urja Nigam Haryana) or directly through Panchayat for setting up of Solar Power Projects for minimum period of 30 years.

ROOFTOP POWER PROJECTS In an effort to tab the potential of rooftop solar in the state, the government to promote installation of rooftop solar power plants on the rooftops of industries, institutions, schools, colleges, hospitals and residential buildings etc.

The state is targeting capacity of 1600MW rooftop solar power by the year 2021-22.

Cluster of rooftops of public / private buildings: Some percentage capacity of the setting up of ground mounted MW scale grid connected power plants, to meet the solar RPO shall be developed by setting up of grid connected rooftop solar power plants. For that the offers shall be invited by Renewable Energy Department, Haryana/HAREDA from the IPP for development of grid connected rooftop solar power plants, of capacity ranging from 250 kWp to 1 MW, on a cluster of public private buildings on the last lowest tariff discovered and conveyed by HPPC. The entire power produced by power producers who set up plants within four years from the date of notification of this policy shall be purchased by the HPPC or any entity of Haryana Govt.

Decentralized and Off Grid Solar Applications: The State will promote the installation of decentralized and off-grid solar applications, including hybrid systems, as per guidelines issued by MNRE, Government of India, to meet various electrical and thermal energy requirements for domestic and commercial use by providing financial assistance.

 www.supersmartenergy.com

The State will promote setting up of local solar grid and standalone systems to meet the lighting energy needs of villages/dhanis.

For meeting the hot water requirement in the residential, industrial, commercial and social sector the installation of solar water heating system shall be promoted.

To meet the Community cooking energy needs the Department/ HAREDA shall promote the use of solar steam systems.

PERQUISITES The following incentives/benefits shall be provided to the Solar Power Projects on ‘Must Run Status and Operational Projects: ›› The State transmission utility shall bear the cost of EHV/ HV transmission line up to a distance of 10 km. from the interconnection point. For the interconnection point beyond 10 kms the cost shall be borne equally by the IPP and the licensee. However for canal based solar power projects, the transmission lines shall be provided by the utilities, free of cost, irrespective of the distance of the project from the substation. ›› All electricity taxes & cess, electricity duty, wheeling charges, cross subsidy charges, Transmission & distribution charges and surcharges will be totally waived off for Ground mounted and Roof Top Solar Power Projects. ›› All new projects of MW scale generating solar energy will be treated as “Industry” in terms of Industrial Policy of the State. ›› Price preference will be given to IPPs who set up the Solar Power Plants in the State. ›› Haryana Vidyut Parsaran Nigam Ltd. (HVPNL)/ Dakshin Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam Ltd. (DHBVN)/ Uttar Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam Ltd. (UHBVN)/ licensee shall permit solar power generated by eligible producers to be banked. ›› A generating company engaged in generation of electricity from Solar Power Plant shall be eligible to avail the REC as per regulations

of the CERC. ›› The MW power projects shall be exempted from land use approval, external development charges, security fee and infrastructure development charges. ›› These projects shall be exempted from environment clearance and clearance from Forest Department. ›› These projects of MW scale shall be provided 100% exemption from payment of fee and stamp duty charges for registration of rent/ lease deed for the land required for setting up of these projects. ›› The developers setting up the ground mounted MW scale solar power plants may also use the space in between the installed solar panels for commercial floriculture/horticulture related activities provided that it does not affect solar power generation and also keeping in view all the safety and security measures as required for the installed equipments as per the provisions of Electricity Act 2003. ›› Metering equipments for the power generation & its sale will be installed at site by the user at their own cost as per specifications and regulations. ›› The Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) to be signed between IPP and HPPC shall be valid for a period of 25 years. After this period, the PPA can be renegotiated between the power producer and concerned power utilities/ licensee.

INITIATIVES To promote rooftop solar power projects, the State Government has taken the following initiatives: Mandatory installation of Solar power plants: The State Government has mandated installation of solar power plant of 3% to 5% of connected load for categories of all residential buildings built on a plot size of 500 Square Yards and above, all government and private building on a plot size of 0.5 Acre and above and all water lifting stations of Irrigation Department.

mandatory enforcement shall be for the new residential buildings only whereas the installation of the rooftop solar power plants in the existing residential buildings shall be promoted by providing financial incentives.

If the user covered under the mandatory provision is not installing the rooftop solar power plant as per the notification, then penalty shall be imposed as per government rules and regulations.

Net Metering Facility: The grid connected rooftop solar photovoltaic systems of capacity equivalent to the sanctioned load can be installed for the captive use, for which the net metering facility shall be provided as per the Haryana Electricity Regulatory Commission regulations. An incentive @ 25 paise per unit shall also be provided in their bills on the solar power thus generated.

Lease of Government buildings/ Land: The rooftop space available in the Government organization, institutions, buildings or vacant land of the same can also be provided on lease/rent to the Independent Power Producer/ RESCO developer for setting up of solar power projects.

Agriculture Solar Pump sets: The State in collaboration with the Central Government / MNRE, Govt. of India will promote the installation of Agricultural Solar Powered Pump sets through subsidy support ( if applicable ) to meet water/ irrigation energy needs. The surplus power generation from the solar pump sets may be bought by the HPPC at APPC rate of the year.

The Renewable Energy Department will act as a nodal agency for the implementation of the Haryana Solar Power Policy-2016 on behalf of the Government of Haryana ■

In the residential sector, its

51

May/ June 2016 SmartEnergy

Tenders

TENDER 101 Organisation Name

Solar Energy Corporation Of India Limited

Organisation Type

Public Sector Undertakings

Tender Ref. No

SECI/Cont./01/2016/500

Tender Title

Implementation of 500 MW Grid Connected Roof Top Solar PV System Scheme in Different States of India Under CAPEX & RESCO model

Contact Details

Shri Sanjay Sharma/ www.seci.gov.in

TENDER 102 Organisation Name

Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Limited

Organisation Type

Public Limited Company

Tender Ref. No

RUMSL/2016-17/345/010

Tender Title

Online Reverse Auction under Open Category, for selection of developer(s) for 750MW(3X250MW) Grid-Connected solar PV project in Gurh Tehsil, District Rewa in Madhya Pradesh (India).

Contact Details

TClL Helpdesk Number 181-1126241790

TENDER 103 Organisation Name

Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited

Organisation Type

Public Sector Undertakings

Tender Ref. No

RCRSCPV124

Tender Title

Manufacture and supply of Multi-Crystalline PV Module(295-310W)DCR Cells

Contact Details

Corporate Office, BHEL, Asiad, New Delhi/ 23365279

TENDER 104 Organisation Name

North Eastern Railway

Organisation Type

Central Govt. Ministry/Department

Tender Ref. No

SRDEE-G-LJN-SOLAR-RFQ-2016

Tender Title

Harnessing of solar energy on rooftop of railway building by imp. of 500 KW roof top solar PV system at Lucknow Division of N.E. Railway

Contact Details

RAGHVENDRA KUMAR/ 05222233041

TENDER 105 Organisation Name

Eastern Regional Power Committee

Organisation Type

Central Govt. Ministry/Department

Tender Ref. No

022016

Tender Title

Implementation of 10kW Grid Connected Roof Top Solar PV System at ERPC

Contact Details

Ankan Kumar Bandyopadhyaya/ 033-24235016

52 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

 www.supersmartenergy.com

EVENTS WATCH Event: 2nd Smart Cities India 2016 Expo

Event: Intersolar Middle East

Event: Solar Middle East 2017

Date: 11-13 May 2016

Date: September 19-21, 2016

Date: 14- 16 Feb, 2017

Venue: Pragati Maidan, New Delhi

Venue: DWTC, Dubai, UAE

Venue: Dubai, UAE

Contact: www.intersolar.ae

Contact: info@solarmiddleeast. ae/ +971 4 4072472

Contact: Mr. Praveen Singh, Mob. +91 9899 786 777, E-mail: praveens@eigroup.in

Event: 17th Regulators & Policymakers Retrea t 2016

Event: RenewX

Event: POWER-GEN India & Central Asia 2016

Date: September 22 - 25, 2016

Date: 16- 17 Feb, 2017

Venue: Hotel Lalit, Goa, India

Venue: HITEX, Hyderabad

Date: 18-20 May 2016

Contact: Divya Parthasarathy/ divya@ippaimail.org

Contact: +91-11-66517605

Venue: Pragati Maidan, New Delhi Contact: sethavnish1@gmail. com

Event: Asean Sustainable Energy Week Date: 1–4 June 2016 Venue: BITEC , Bangkok, Thailand Contact: +662 642 6911 ext. 314/ www.asew-expo.com/ asew-th@ ubm.com

Event: 10th Renewable Energy India Expo Date: 7-9 Sept, 2016 Venue: India Expo Centre, Greater Noida Contact: Rajneesh Khattar, rajneesh.khattar@ubm.com

Event: Intersolar India 2016 Date: 19-21 Oct, 2016 Venue: BIEC, Goregaon, Mumbai, India Contact: Swapna Kulkarni, +91 224255 4729, swapna.kulkarni@ mmi-india.in

Event: Solar South 2016 Date: 26- 27 Nov, 2016 Venue: Chennai Trade Centre, Chennai, Tamil Nadu Contact: Mr. +919500036914

Chiranjiv/

Event: Energy Storage India 2017 Date: 12- 13 Jan, 2017 Venue: Nehru Centre, Mumbai Contact: Shradha MalikS@md-india.com

Malik/

53

May/ June 2016 SmartEnergy

ADVERTISERS INDEX 10th REI 2016

IBC

Asian Sustainable Energy Week

45

Energy Storage India

29

Exide Industries Ltd.

IFC

Gangadan Energy Pvt. Ltd.

BC

Intersolar India

7

Intersolar Middle East

17

IPPAI

15

K-Lite Industries

11

Meco Metere Pvt.Ltd.

3

Mtekpro Technologies Pvt.Ltd.

5

Power-Gen India

13

Urja Solutions

49

54 SmartEnergy May/ June 2016

 www.supersmartenergy.com

World-Wide Wind Energy Solution with European Technology Collaboration Gangadan’s Services: • 3rd Party verification & consultancy services • Site analysis & Techno-Commercial assessment • Turnkey EPC Solution • Project finance & Re-finance • Purchase and sale of used & new Wind Turbine • Refurbishment • Installation, Commissioning & Dismantling • Operation & Maintenance with 24X7 support

Gangadan Energy Pvt. Ltd. 128, Patrakar Colony, New Power House Road, Jodhpur, 342001, India

Contact Us

Phone : +91-(0)291-2611177 | 9166111999 Mail : gangadanenergy@gmail.com Web : www.gangadan.in