IN THIS ISSUE

16
COVER STORY

MNRE issues
National Wind-
Solar Hybrid Policy
The objective of the policy is to provide
a framework for promotion of large grid
connected wind-solar PV hybrid system

19 21
Cover Story Cover Story
Solar-Wind hybrid Hybrid Technology
policy and its to drive the Sector
future ahead
The hybrid policy would definitely pave The government can help the process of
way for efficient utilisation of existing development of hybrid solutions through
land and transmission infrastructure supportive policies and regulations
thereby reducing the cost of energy

23 25
Cover Story Cover Story

RE- The answer to Combination of wind

India’s energy needs
Solar and wind power being variable
in nature pose certain challenges on
grid security and stability and therefore
suitable policy interventions are required
and solar to have
The wind solar hybrid policy and scheme
recommends that the hybrid plant will be
recognized if the rated capacity of wind
source is at least 25 percent of the rated
capacity of the other source

28 30
Interview Column
Hero Future Energies Opening of a new era
brings live India’s first in renewable energy
hybrid project reliability
Storage will help balance supply and
demand close to real time, avoiding Renewable hybrid solutions combine
frequency drifts and supporting the mid- energy generation resources and storage
term response to grid imbalances

4 | Energy Next | June 2018

 VOLUME 8 | ISSUE 08 | June 2018

w w w . e n e r g y n e x t . i n

34 36
In-Conversation In-Conversation
Off-grid solar Rooftop solar energy
projects extremely market displays an
important for India accelerating growth
Making new and old residential, Rooftop solar has shown remarkable
institutional, commercial, and progress lately, with several Discom
government buildings solar compatible level government policies, like the SRISTI
is the best way to raise awareness and scheme, proving to be a huge boon
improve infrastructure

42 45
In-Conversation Renewable Energy
Industry has matured Smart grid
for both solar and technology opens up
wind technologies more opportunities
A support from government for
hybrid systems and policy for the Digital technologies are set to
same is a welcome step make energy systems more
connected, intelligent, reliable
and sustainable

51 58
Biofuel Environment Day

Entrepreneurship World Environment

opportunities in Day raises
biogas sector awareness on issues
Financial systems remain a key
driver for green transformation of
economies

60
SOLAR TARIFF

Lowest tariff in bids

Entrepreneurs have scope to
implement different models of
family size biogas plants and help
India achieve its potential
indicates solar power
has reached grid parity
The amendment in bidding norms offers
clarity on pass-through of import duty
and other such duty which is a positive
for solar developers

June 2018 | Energy Next | 5


Hybrid policy instils confidence
T
here have been significant
capacity additions in the
renewable energy sector recently,
and the hybrid policy issued
by the Ministry of New and Renewable
Ministry will only give a further push to this
momentum. This government aims to offer
a framework for promotion of large grid
connected wind-solar PV hybrid system
for efficient utilization of transmission
infrastructure and land. Moreover, the
policy is also aimed at reducing the
variability in renewable power generation
and achieving better grid stability.
In the last four years India’s renewable
energy landscape has achieved several
milestones. The power installed capacity
has already reached over 70 GW, while
over 40 GW renewable power capacity is
under construction/tendered. Globally,
India retains fourth position in wind, fifth
in renewable power and sixth in solar
power installed capacity. Solar energy
capacity increased over 8 times from 2.63
GW in 2014 to 22 GW, and wind energy
capacity increased 1.6 times from 21 GW
in 2014 to 34 GW.
Recently, inauguration of Delhi-Meerut
expressway was one of the significant
achievements. The Expressway has eight
solar power plants with a capacity of 4000
KW for lighting of the underpasses and
running solar pumps for watering plants. It
is the first highway to be lit by solar power
besides encouraging rain water harvesting
on every 500 metres on both sides.
India hosted the World Environment
Day celebrations this year and pledged
to eliminate by 2022 all single use of
plastics in India. The government aims
to create a 500-metre area around 100
historic monuments, including the iconic
Taj Mahal litter-free and free from plastic
pollution through the Taj Declaration.
On the international front, India aims
to partner with the UN to use solar
energy at the world body’s premises as
part of the efforts to protect and preserve
environment.
The sector also beholds job opportunity
for those looking for employment.
According to the International Labour
Organisation (ILO) estimate, more than
FROM the editor
300,000 workers will be employed in the
solar and wind energy sectors in India to
meet the country’s target of generating 175
gigawatts of electricity from renewable
sources by 2022.
The report noted that India has made
environmental sustainability a chief
objective of its development strategy in its
12th Five-Year Plan (2012-17) and devised
a comprehensive framework for skills
development for green transition at the
national level, targeting key sectors and
institutions like the Skills Council for Green
Jobs was set up for the purpose in 2015.
The Cabinet has approved continuation
of off-grid and Decentralised Solar PV
Applications Programme which covers
components such as Solar Street Lights,
Stand-alone Solar Power Plants and Solar
Study Lamps. These developments bode
well for the sector marching ahead to reach
its renewable goals.
Anupam Daftuar
Publications Director
June 2018 | Energy Next | 7
 letters to the editor

Thank you!
Thanks a lot for supporting us in sharing
experiences on solar water pumps in Energy
Next April 2018 issue. You have featured all Enabling Investment Environment
aspects of the solar pump well in the article
i.e. relevance of pumps in agriculture of
India, govt programs for its promotion, cost Publications Director Anupam Daftuar
of the equipment, benefits and its overall Associate Editor Sonali Chowdhury
impact. With photos and quotes, the article Associate Editor Anurima Mondal
will surely impress the readers. Design Flying Tusker Media
ll Vikas Jha, Director (Governance & Marketing Manager Aditya Daftuar
Policy Advocacy), Sehgal Foundation Subscription & Dispatch Anil Patwal

Need a policy boost project tendering activity is at
an all-time high. I was happy
to know that January alone saw
tenders for over 5.5 GW being
launched by the Solar Energy
Corporation of India (SECI)
and other state-level agencies.
read more about the changing
face of Indian Railways in
context to renewable energy.
llBratin Biswas, Kolkata
Stress on wind sector
The last year has witnessed a
For the latest Renewable Energy news.
log on to www.energynext.in
Energy Next is printed by R Ramprasad and published
by R Ramprasad on behalf of

Waste to energy (WtE) has
been a very slow growing
segment despite there being
tremendous potential for
these projects in India. I
believe it is also important to
mention that a comprehensive
and creative policy mix for
effective waste management
will not be possible without
Hope the industry continues
with the momentum.
ll Nikhil Saha, Ghaziabad
Indian Railways
initiative
Indian Railways is changing
the way it works to reduce its
carbon footprint. The utility
operates one of the world’s
largest rail networks and is
number of transformational Focal Point Media Services Pvt Ltd
#407, Fifth Floor,
changes. One of the biggest
Pavani Plaza, Khairatabad,
developments has been the
Hyderabad - 500 004, Telangana, India.
wind industry moving away
CIN No.: U74999AP2010PTC070645
from the FiT structure to Focal Point Media Services Pvt. Ltd. is a joint
competitive bidding. The venture of Gateway Media Pvt. Ltd, and Invision
tariffs that have emerged Communications & Research Pvt. Ltd, and printed at
from this development spell M/s. Kala Jyothi Process Pvt. Ltd.
good news for the discoms, 1-1-60/5, RTC Cross Roads, Musheerabad,
which will be able to procure Hyderabad - 500 020, and Published at Focal Point
this new wind power at Rs Media Services Pvt. Ltd.

political will and strong public the single biggest consumer
demand for cleaner, healthier of electricity in the country,
living environments. accounting for almost 2 per
ll Radhika Saxena, Delhi cent of India’s total power
consumption. It is also the
Sector on a high note single largest consumer of
India’s renewable energy diesel. It would be inspiring to
Feedback: Please send your feedback and comments to
editor@energynext.in
2.64 per kWh. Being energy #407, Fifth Floor Pavani Plaza Khairatabad,
Hyderabad - 500 004, Telangana, India.
professional in the wind
Tel: +91 40 233 000 61, 233 006 26
sector I recommend more
+91 40 233 006 65
stories to be covered so that it
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keeps us informed about the e-mail : subscribe@energynext.in
developments in the sector. Write to: Focal Point Media Services Pvt. Ltd.
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Tel: +91 11-26424071/73
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advisory board

Please note: Views expressed in the articles are those

of the Authors and may not be shared by the editor or
Prof Rangan Banerjee Arun Gupta Dr Praveen Saxena K P Sukumaran S Chandra Sekhar Yogesh Mehra members of the editorial board. Unsolicited material
IIT-Mumbai Managing Director Former Advisor Former Advisor Managing Director Managing Director will not be returned.
Him Urja Pvt Ltd MNRE MNRE Bhoruka Power Corpn Ltd Wind World (India) Ltd

Copyright: No material published here should

Contact Write to
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8 | Energy Next | June 2018

 From Mega watts to Giga watts
Envisioning a Greener Tomorrow with Renewable Energy

ENCOURAGING GREEN-POWER TODAY

ENERGISING INDIA’S TOMORROW

Energy for Ever

Loan Sanctions (Rs. Crores) (2012 - 2017) Loan Sanctions

12000
Gol’s target of 5x increase 4th largest wind 10,199
in renewable energy capacity installations in the 10000
to 175,000 MW by 2022 world
7,806
8000

6000
4,540
4000
3,747 3,818
CO2
2000

One of the largest All IREDA funded projects 0

2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17
solar programs in the world are helping in avoiding
with planned capacity of CO2 emissions
100 GW by 2022 Funded more than 2,382 renewable energy projects

Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd.

(A Govt. of India Enterprise)
A Mini Ratna PSU under Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
www.ireda.in
Corporate Office: 3rd Floor, August Kranti Bhawan, Bhikaiji Cama Place, New Delhi 110 066, Tel: +91 11 26717400 - 26717412
Registered Office: India Habitat Centre, East Court, Core-4A, 1st Floor, Lodhi Road, New Delhi 110003, Tel: +91 11 24682206 - 24682219
 national
Cabinet approves continuation of decentralised solar PV applications programme
T he Cabinet Committee on Economic
Affairs, chaired by the Prime Minister
Narendra Modi has given its approval
for implementation of Phase-Ill of Off-
grid and Decentralised Solar PV (Photo
Voltaic) Application Programme to achieve
additional 118 MWp(Mega Watt peak) off-
grid solar PV capacity by 2020.
Phase-Ill of Off-grid and Decentralised
Solar PV Application Programme covers
following components:
i) Solar Street Lights: 3,00,000 numbers
of solar street lights will be installed
throughout the country with special
Agro residue can be used to produce power: Singh
A two–day conference on ‘Agro
Residue and Municipal Solid
Waste to Power: Challenges and Way
Ahead for India’ was organised by
NTPC. Sharing his thoughts on the
conference, Power Minister R K Singh
said, “NTPC has been at the forefront
of Agro Residue and Municipal Solid
Waste Management, to give the capital
and NCR cleaner air. NTPC pro-actively
ran a pilot project to use bio-mass for
power generation, which proved that
bio-mass conversion into power is a
viable solution to better air quality.
The intent is to generate power while
keeping India’s environment healthy
while we contribute to the Swachh
MNRE creates RPO compliance cell to meet its
ambitious target
T he Ministry has created a renewable
purchase obligation (RPO) compliance
cell to coordinate with the Central and State
Electricity Regulatory Commissions on
matters relating to RPO compliance. This will
help the states to stand by the RPO targets as
the cell would take up non-compliance related
issues with the appropriate authorities.
“This step of MNRE to appoint an RPO
compliance cell is a welcome move. The cell
may monitor fulfilment of RPO along with
the timeline of commissioning of renewable
10 | Energy Next | June 2018
emphasis on areas where there is no facility
for street lighting systems through grid
power, North Eastern States and Left Wing
Extremism (LWE) affected districts.
ii) Stand-alone Solar Power Plants: Solar
power plants of individual size up to 25
kWp(kilo Watt peak) will be promoted in
areas where grid power has not reached or
is not reliable. This component is mainly
aimed at providing electricity to schools,
hostels, panchayats, police stations and
other public service institutions. The
aggregated capacity of solar power plants
would be 100 MWp.
Implementation
Bharat programme”.
He added, “Our long-term social
objective is that of a healthier planet
timeline extended
for distributed solar
and there are costs attached to attain projects on islands
this objective. Our intent is to design
policies so that our long-term social
goals are met for clean India. Agro
residue and municipal solid waste can
both be used for power generation, we
just need to address the challenges to
optimally leverage this process.”
This two-day conference will help
to achieve triple objective of Clean
Air, Swachh Bharat and Employment
Generation. Converting Agro Residue
and Municipal Solid Waste into Power
will give a boost to economic activities.
I mplementation timeline of 40 MW
of distributed grid-connected solar
photovoltaic (PV) power projects in
Andaman & Nicobar, and Lakshadweep
islands has been extended by the Ministry of
New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
The initial timeline for the program
implementation has been extended to 2016-
energy projects and associated transmission
which is mandated by the government to be
awarded on tariff-based competitive bidding
17 to 2018-19 from 2015-16 to 2017-18. The
ministry has issue an amendment, according
to which, distributed grid-connected
basis as per guidelines issued on the subject,” said solar PV projects of 40 MW capacity will
Electric Power Transmission Association (EPTA) be installed in Andaman & Nicobar and
Director General Subhash Sethi. Lakshadweep Islands in the three-year
“The formation of the RPO compliance period, i.e. 2016-17, 2017-18, 2018-19, with
cell will be highly effective to coordinate an estimated central financial assistance
with States and ensure stringent (CFA) of ₹1.922 billion. The amendment will
implementation of RPO targets especially therefore, provide ample time for completion
the solar RPO,” an official from the Solar of projects to the agencies.
Power Developers’ Association added.

India third largest solar market in the world: Mercom
A ccording to a report recently
published by Mercom
Communications, is an arm of
global clean energy consulting
firm Mercom Capital Group,
India is the third largest solar
market in the world in 2017 after
China and the US. The country
has created a new record with 9.6
GW of solar installations in the
last year.
“In 2017, India emerged as the
third largest solar market ...having
EoI deadline extended for offshore wind projects
T he deadline for the submission of
Expression of Interest (EoI) for 1
GW offshore wind projects at Gujarat
has been extended by the National
Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE). The
deadline has been revised from May 25
to June 8.
Earlier, global companies with
experience of installing offshore wind
projects of more than 500 MW were
eligible for such projects but now the
eligibility criteria have been relaxed.
Entities having experience of installing
projects of more than 250 MW will now
be able to take up such projects.
The final selection of developer of the
Ministry approves 5,000MW Dholera solar park
T he Ministry of New and Renewable
Energy has given its consent to install solar
park in the Dholera Special Investment Region
(DSIR). The tender for the first 1,000MW of
5,000 MW will be floated soon.
“We got approval from the Union ministry
of new and renewable energy for the solar park
on Thursday. With this, the tender for the first
phase of the solar park is set to be out in June
itself. The next phase will be undertaken in the
subsequent months,” said Jai Prakash Shivhare,
managing director of Dholera Industrial City
Development Corporation Ltd (DICC).
first offshore wind project was to be done
through competitive bidding but now the
shortlisted parties will be consulted for
preparation of bidding documents. NIWE
has clarified that the project site may not
be restricted to the coordinates which
were proposed by it earlier.
Earlier, only private developers were
developing projects to sell power, but
now states are actively tendering wind
projects to meet renewable purchase
obligations (RPO) and produce clean
energy. Wind farms are now being
developed with state governments and
other implementing agencies with the
advent of reverse auctions.
The Dholera solar park would reportedly
be India’s largest solar park. Built on 11,000
hectares of land along the Gulf of Khambhat,
the solar park is expected to attract investment
of Rs 25,000 crore and generate employment
for 20,000 people.
NEWS
grown at a CAGR of approximately
170 per cent since 2010,” the
report said.“The robust growth
boosted the country’s total solar
installed capacity to 19.6 GW as of
December 2017”, it added.
“In 2017, larger players started
consolidating their positions at
the top as India quickly emerged
as one of the most important solar
markets in the world for suppliers
and vendors,”Mercom Capital
Group CEO Raj Prabhu said. .
Renewable energy
industry to add
300,000 jobs
A ccording to report recently released
International Labour Organisation
(ILO), around 300,000 workers will be
employed in the renewable energy sector to
meet the country’s ambitious target of 175
GW by 2022. The action to combat climate
change is thus creating new job opportunities
for people in India. The report prepared with
the estimates by The Council on Energy,
Environment and Water (CEEW) and the
Natural Resources Defence Council cited
that the country has made environmental
sustainability a central objective of its
development strategy in its twelfth Five-Year
Plan (2012-17) and set up a comprehensive
framework for skills development for green
transition.“To meet the target, the number
of workers required by ground-mounted
solar, rooftop solar and wind power projects,
will need to increase... The potential for
employment creation is conditional on
the domestic capacity of solar module
manufacturing and the establishment
of vocational training programmes and
certification schemes,” the report stated
June 2018 | Energy Next | 11
 State
Rural households in Rajasthan get strategic solar solutions
G reenlight Planet has entered into
a strategic partnership with Satin
Creditcare Network Limited (SCNL) to
provide affordable and quality solar solutions
to low-income households in Rajasthan.The
strategic alliance took place in presence of the
senior leadership from both the companies
including Dev Verma- Chief Operating
Officer (COO), SCNL, Anil Kwatra- Deputy
COO, SCNL and Ben Mathew- Global Sales
Leader, Greenlight Planet.
The products will be available at all 75
branches of SCNL in Rajasthan. The first
product that SCNL’s clientele can purchase
Delhi aims to launch 1,000 electric buses
T he transport department of Delhi has
prepared a proposal to procure 1,000
electric buses after deputy chief minister
Manish Sisodia announced the program to
launch e-buses in Delhi budget 2018-19. The
proposal is expected to be presented before
the council of ministers in the next cabinet
meeting.Delhi’s transport minister Kailash
Gahlot confirmed that the proposal is being
reviewed by different departments.The state
government plans to float tenders by July. The
first lot of the buses is expected to start rolling
out by March, next year.
Meanwhile, the transport department is
discussing on the bus depots where proper
Housing societies in Delhi switch to solar power
I n a bid to transform the capital region
into a ‘solar city’, housing societies in
Delhi are gradually switching to solar
energy. The Shiv Bhole Cooperative Group
Housing Society in Dwarka installed a
100KW grid and became the first CGHS
to go live as part of BSES Rajdhani Power
Limited’s (BRPL) solar city initiative.
Installed by Green Ripples Pvt Ltd
following RESCO business model, the solar
plant would save roughly Rs 4,500 annually
for each of the 60 households in the society.
The bidding was administered by the
Indraprastha Power Generation Company
Limited for 84MWp capacity.
12 | Energy Next | June 2018
via loan is the ‘Sun King Boom’, a solar-
powered lantern with a built-in radio, MP3
player, and USB port for mobile charging.
This product is in line with the growing
aspirations and demand for lighting, mobile-
charging and entertainment amongst the
rural consumers. Speaking on the initiative
towards enhancing the quality of life in rural
Rajasthan, Dev Verma, COO, Satin Creditcare
Network Limited said, “We are extremely
delighted to tie-up with Greenlight Planet.
Together we aim to empower our consumers
in adopting safe and sustainable solar
solutions in their daily lives.”
Uttar Pradesh gets its
first smart highway
infrastructure would be required for parking
the e-buses would come up. “We have decided
to use bus depots at East Vinod Nagarand
Bawana to park these buses. The major
reason behind choosing the locations was
the availability of sufficient power supply,” a
government official said.
T he Phase 1 of the Delhi-Meerut
Expressway and Eastern Periphery
Expressway was recently inaugurated
by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Constructed at a cost of Rs 841 crore,
Soon after Dwarka installed solar rooftop, a
cooperative housing society in east Delhi also
made the switch to solar power. Chief minister
the Delhi-Meerut Expressway has
vertical gardens with solar power
system on the Yamuna Bridge for the
Arvind Kejriwal recently inaugurated a 140 first time
kWp solar PV plant at Milan Vihar cooperative Meanwhile, the 135-km EPE, built at
society in IP Extension which houses around a cost of Rs 11,000 crore became India’s
1,600 residents and has 400 flats (approx). The first highway to be lit by solar power.
140-kWp plant will produce electricity at Rs There are 8 solar power plants on this
2.50 per unit. expressway having a capacity of 4000-
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister kilo watt (4 MW). The expressway,
said that the party will hold a meeting with all built in a record 500 days, would
the Residents Welfare Associations (RWA) across showcase 36 national monuments and
the national capital in the next two months to 40 fountains. The foundation stone of
emphasise on starting similar initiatives in other the greenfield project was laid by Prime
apartments and societies. Minister on November 5, 2015.

Chhattisgarh aims for 600 MW Solar PV
T he Chhattisgarh Renewable Energy
Development Agency (CREDA) is
planning to install 600 MW grid-connected
solar PV rooftop projects in different
categories across the State. The solar power
produced by the rooftop projects will be
utilized for captive application while the
surplus power will be fed to the grid.
The state government has set a
target of creating 2000 ‘Suryamitras’
in the next five years. Notably, it
commissioned grid connected solar
projects with cumulative capacity of
128.91 MW as on October 31, 2017.
Around fifteen states have come
out with Solar Policy supporting
Solar energy to power AP universities
U niversities in Andhra Pradesh may soon
be powered by solar energy. The state
government has revealed its plans to install
a solar power system at Acharya Nagarjuna
University (ANU) using Corporate Social
Responsibility (CSR) funds.
The initiative, with the collaboration
of the Ministry of Renewable Energy
(MNRE), will save around `2 crore paid
to discoms every year. The university
currently has 50 KWP solar panels on its
main buildings, with every roof fitted with
panels generating 2 MW power.
Talking about the project, Prof Siddaiah,
Dean Engineering, said, “As of now we have
limited solar power facilities. We want to
Tamil Nadu to add 3,000MW solar and
wind power
T angedco will soon float tenders for adding
a total of 3000MW of solar and wind
power capacity. The upper limit on tariff is
fixed at 3 per unit and 2.65 per unit for solar
and wind respectively.
“We have received nod to float tenders
for solar and wind power projects in 2018,”
confirmed a Tangedco official.
Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory
Commission (TNERC) has also given its
grid connected rooftop systems and
Chhattisgarh is one of them. Other states
are Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana,
Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala,
Manipur, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu,
Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand
and West Bengal.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has
included renewable energy projects
under priority sector lending for which
bank loans up to a limit of Rs 15 crore to
borrowers will be available for renewable
energy projects including grid connected
solar rooftop and ground mounted
systems. For individual households, the
loan limit is Rs 10 lakh per borrower.
be a completely solar-powered institution.
Our total power requirement is 2MW per
year, so we want to install solar panels
on all rooftops. The project is still under
consideration and the Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy is yet to take a call.”
consent for an equal 1500MW capacity in wind
power in multiple phases and tenders, with
the minimum capacity per project of at least
25MW. “The wind power tariff has been falling
below the base tariff of thermal units. Tangedco
and other discoms will be happy to evacuate
wind power at a tariff less than 3 per unit
instead of burning coal in their own units,” said
secretary general of the Indian Wind Turbine
Manufacturers Association D V Giri.
NEWS
Mumbai Central station
installs biogas plant
I t is the first of its kind project; the
Western Railway has set up a biogas
plant at Mumbai Central station. The
plant will convert organic waste into
gas which would be used for cooking.
Built at a cost of Rs 50 lakh, the plant
has the capacity to handle 500 kg of
waste and can produce gas equivalent
to a regular-size cylinder.
“It is a matter of pride that we
have set up a solid waste disposal
and management system (biogas)
at Mumbai Central outside the
Coach Care Centre as part of out
environmental initiative. To run the
plant, we are collecting waste from
trains at the Mumbai Central station
and coaching depot along with the
base kitchen at Mumbai Central,” said
an official.
Chief spokesperson of the Western
Railway Ravinder Bhakar said, “If
the plant is operated at its maximum
capacity, it can produce gas of
equivalent quantity of an LPG cylinder
every day. But due to the low quantity
of waste being generated at present,
the plant can generate just over 1/4 of
an LPG cylinder.” Besides producing
environment-friendly gas for cooking
purposes, the plant will also help in
garbage-handling system.
June 2018 | Energy Next | 13
 interNATIONAL
French Guiana region to install world’s largest
power station
H DF Energy is all set to make a mark in
the renewable energy sector with the
creation of its CEOG project (French Western
Guiana Power Plant). The project harnessed via
HDF Energy’s Renewstable® solution is expected
to deliver 100 percent clean, affordable and
reliable power 24/7 – with no fluctuations and at
reduced costs – to an area of more than 10,000
World Bank increases support for RE in Bangladesh
W ith an aim to expand its access
to clean energy and promote
renewable energy in rural areas,
Bangladesh has signed a $55 million
financing agreement with the World Bank.
The deal was signed between Kazi Shofiqul
Azam, secretary of Bangladesh’s Economic
Relations Division, and Fan Qimiao, Asian
Development Bank country Director for
Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal.
The additional financing to the Second
Rural Electrification and Renewable
Energy Development (RERED II) Project
will install 1,000 solar irrigation pumps,
14 | Energy Next | June 2018
households beset with energy delivery issues.
This major innovation is expected to
revolutionise the energy sector and mark the start of
a new era in energy delivery. The project is backed
by a EUR 90 million investment from the company,
private investment partners and leading banks.
HDF Energy is the world’s first producer of
a stable electricity supply based on intermittent
energies. The Renewstable® solution combines
a 55 MW solar farm with the world’s largest
renewable energy storage solution to provide
a ground-breaking 140 MWh, based on
hydrogen. This is supported via secondary
storage in the form of batteries.
The CEOG will address the crucial need to
generate clean, reliable energy and will yield
economic benefits for French Guiana. Connected
to the EDF, the project is scheduled to start in
summer 2019.
30 solar mini-grids and about 4 million
improved cooking stoves in rural areas.
“Following a successful demand-driven
public-private partnership programme,
Bangladesh installed 4.2 million solar home
systems. This additional financing will
help scale up use of clean and renewable
energy such as solar irrigation pumps and
solar mini-grids, which will help reduce
poverty, improve the environment, create
jobs, and open up new opportunities for
rural people,” confirmed Qimiao. The bank
has been helping Bangladesh promote solar
energy in remote areas since 2003.
Google launches solar
power service in UK
G oogle is providing solar power
service that would enable
homeowners in UK to save money by
switching to solar power.The company
has joined hands with energy supplier
Eon to introduce an online tool called
Sunroof, which estimates savings
using data from Google’s Earth and
Maps apps.
Project Sunroof forecasts solar
potential of a house by examining the
property’s features with its machine
learning. The tech giant is also
partnering with German software firm
Tetraeder. The tool is another example
of Google’s public commitment to
green energy.
Germany meets 100%
of its power demand
from renewables
A s per the data given by the Federal
Network Agency (BNetzA),
Germany’s renewable power production
surpassed the entire country’s electricity
demand on May 1.
Renewable power output reached
53,987 megawatt hours (MWh) at 1pm,
while consumption was 53,768 MWh. The
renewable power production exceeded
consumption for about two and a half
hours. “Now transmission lines take
precedence so that the power can flow,”
tweeted Germany’s economy and energy
minister Peter Altmaier.
The country had previously covered
100 percent of its power demand with
renewables on January 1, when wind power
was able to meet 85 percent of demand.
The data presented by the BNetzA is
however,still preliminary.

Strong policy and falling costs drive record year for
e-vehicles
T he number of electric and plug-in
hybrid cars on the world’s roads
exceeded 3 million in 2017, a 54 percent
increase compared with 2016, according
to the latest edition of the International
Energy Agency’s Global Electric
Vehicles Outlook.
China remained by far the largest
electric car market in the world with
580,000 electric cars sold in 2017, a
72 percent increase from the previous
year. The United States had the second-
highest, with about 280,000 cars sold
last year.
Nordic countries remain leaders in
market share. Electric cars accounted for
39 percent of new car sales in Norway,
Australian solar plant to have world’s largest power
storage capacity
A
roughly $1 billion solar plant in
Australia is all set to have one of
the biggest power storage facilities in the
world. Various Japanese and Western firm
are contributing funds in this project.
The plant located in South Australia will
get a 100MW lithium-ion battery storage
system
JERA, a Tokyo-based company will
be providing storage facility. Along with
Fluence and Lyon Group, JERA will build
three solar power plants which generate
total capacity of 550MW. Battery storage
China to provide e-buses to Philippines
C hina’s electric vehicle manufacturer
BYD will provide ten electric buses
to the Philippines. The buses are expected
to be on Manila’s roads in July. While two
of the 10 electric buses have already been
delivered while, eight more are expected to
be delivered next month.
One of the Philippines’ largest bus
manufacturers, Columbian Motors
Corporation (CMC), had signed the agreement
in October 2017 to purchase the 10 e-buses
from BYD.
Arsenio Yap, CMC president, said the
making it the world leader in electric
vehicle (EV) market share. In Iceland, new
EV sales were 12 percent of the total while
the share reached 6 percent in Sweden.
Germany and Japan also saw strong
growth, with sales more than doubling in
both countries from their 2016 levels.
The growth of EVs has largely been
driven by government policy. It has also
been helped by progress made in recent
years to improve the performance and
reduce the costs of lithium-ion batteries.
The IEA’s latest Tracking Clean Energy
Progress report shows that EVs are
one of the 4 technologies out of 38
that are on track to meet long-term
sustainability goals.
offers JERA a profitable business venture
as solar power in Australia fetches higher
prices at night than during the day.
10 electric buses will be the first in the
Philippines. “With the all-electric buses, we
will make the transportation in Metro Manila
more environment-friendly, more convenient,
healthier and safer,” added Yap.
NEWS
Nigeria switches to
renewables
N igeria is gradually switching
to renewable power. It aims to
produce 30 per cent of its total energy
from renewable sources by 2030.
The country has invested more than
$20 billion in solar power projects to
boost the capacity.
“Ready access to electricity will
reduce youth unemployment and
increase productivity,” said Ifeoma
Malo, Nigeria country director at the
global campaign group Power For All.
“It will contribute greatly to
reducing the carbon footprint of a
growing energy demand by the urban
population.”
A $350 million World Bank loan
will be used to build 10,000 solar-
powered mini-grids by 2023 in rural
areas, bringing power to hospitals,
schools and households, confirms
Damilola Ogunbiyi, managing
director of the Rural Electrification
Agency.
Over the past year, the country
has invested more than $20 billion
in solar power projects, seeking to
boost the capacity of the national grid
and reduce reliance on it by building
mini-grids in rural areas without
mains electricity.
June 2018 | Energy Next | 15
 MNRE
MNRE issues solar
wind hybrid policy
I
n order to improve the capacity of
power generation from renewable
sources, the government has unveiled
a national wind-solar policy aiming to
set up new projects and hybridisation of
the existing plants. The total renewable
power installed capacity in the country
has touched 70 GW in the FY 2017-18.
The Ministry of New and Renewable
Energy came up with this national policy
to provide a framework for promotion
of large grid connected wind-solar
PV hybrid system. The Policy aims to
encourage new technologies, methods and
mechanisms that will combine operation
16 | Energy Next | June 2018
of wind and solar PV plants.
The government has spelled out a
detailed policy mentioning the wind-
solar hybrid systems required to operate
at the same point of grid connection. It
explains the different approaches towards
integrating wind and solar depending
upon the size of each of the source
integrated and the technology type. The
policy clearly entails that a wind-solar
plant will be recognised as hybrid plant if
the rated power capacity of one resource
is at least 25 percent of the rated power
capacity of other resource. The second
important aspect would be related to
the sizing – which would depend on the
resource characteristics. According to the
policy document the implementation of
such a system will depend on different
configurations and use of technologies.
It has also laid down the usage of the
power generated from the wind-solar
hybrid project. The hybrid power may
be used for captive purpose; sale to third
party through open access; sale to the
distribution company (ies) either at tariff
determined by the respective SERC or
at tariff discovered through transparent
bidding process; and sale to the
distribution company (ies) at APPC under
 ACHIEVEMENTS

REC mechanism and avail RECs.

It specifically mentions that the power
procured from the hybrid project may
be used for fulfilment of solar RPO and
non-solar RPO in the proportion of rated
capacity of solar and wind power in the
hybrid plant respectively. Besides this it
has also said that procurement of hybrid
power through transparent bidding
process may require different parameters.
Parameters that may be considered for
bidding could be capacity delivered at grid
interface point, effective CUF and unit
price of electricity.
Infact it had mentioned that battery
storage may be added to the hybrid
project to reduce the variability of the
output power from wind solar hybrid
plant; enabling higher energy output for a
given capacity (bid/ sanctioned capacity)
at delivery point, by installing additional
capacity of wind and solar power in a wind
solar hybrid plant; and ensuring availability
of firm power for a particular period.
Apart from all the above provisions the
government will support the technology
development projects in the field of wind-
solar hybrid systems. The government
will also offer support for development of
standards for hybrid systems.
In this issue we delve into various
aspects of this policy related to wind and
solar in specific, and how the initiative
will drive the sector going forward.

MILESTONES ACHIEVED
A path breaking journey in renewable energy through last 4 years
• Last 4 years have been path-breaking in India’s renewable energy landscape.
• Renewable power installed capacity has already reached over 70 GW. Over 40
GW renewable power capacity is under construction/tendered.
• Globally, India stands 4th in wind power 5th in renewable power and 6th in solar
power installed capacity.
• olar energy capacity increased by over 8 times from 2.63 GW in 2014 to 22 GW.
• Wind energy capacity increased by 1.6 times from 21 GW in 2014 to 34 GW.
• Trajectories for bidding 115 GW renewable power projects upto March 2020
have been announced.
• We are well on track to achieving 175 GW target of installed RE capacity.
• Trends suggest that the target will not only be achieved but exceeded.

June 2018 | Energy Next | 17

 MNRE | ACHIEVEMENTS

New schemes at advanced stages of being launched

• KUSUM (Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan) Scheme:
a. 27.5 lakh solar pumps (17.50 lakh standalone + 10 Lakh Grid-connected)
b. 10 GW of Solar Power Plants of intermediate capacity of 0.5–2 MW
c. 50,000 Grid-connected tube-wells/lift irrigation and drinking water projects
• SRISTI (Sustainable Rooftop Implementation for Solar Transfiguration of India) – new scheme for solar rooftop being
formulated.
• Round the Clock renewables policy has been finalized.

For realising 175 GW target a number of policy measures

have been taken
Transparency is an overarching guidelines principle of our government. Transparent bidding and facilitation for
procurement of solar and wind power through tariff based competitive bidding process have led to significant reduction
in cost of solar and wind power. In the year 2017 competitive bidding guidelines for procurement of solar and wind power
have been notified. The lowest tariff of Rs. 2.44 per unit for solar and Rs. 2.43 per unit for wind discovered. The first solar
plant bid at Rs. 2.44 will be inaugurated in August 2018.
• We have waived the Inter State Transmission System charges and losses for inter-state sale of solar and wind power
for projects to be commissioned by March 2022. This will encourage setting up of the projects in states that have greater
resource potential and availability of suitable land. It also helps in creating a pan-India renewable power market, as
generation in excess of the state’s own requirement could be transmitted to the resource poor states without additional
financial burden;
• In our efforts to send right signal about government of India’s commitment towards renewables we have notified RE
Purchase Obligation (RPO) trajectory upto the year 2019. We are in a process to notify RPO trajectory upto the year 2022;
• For mainstreaming renewables, we have introduced Renewable Generation Obligation (RGO). This provision will
encourage coal based thermal power generators to diversify in renewable energy portfolio;
• For optimizing land use and harnessing solar and wind energy potential optimally, we have notified Solar-Wind
hybrid policy. This policy will help in better harnessing of RE resources and to an extant also address renewable energy
variability, The Ministry has also brought out one tender for setting up 2000 MW solar-wind hybrid in existing projects;
• Target for Solar Parks has been enhanced from 20 GW to 40 GW. 41 Solar Parks in 21 States with aggregate capacity
of over 26 GW have already been sanctioned. Largest Solar Park of 2 GW capacity in Pavagada, Karnataka is under
implementation. New Solar Park policy has been announced to encourage participation by private parties and CPSUs in
setting up Solar Parks.
• Off-shore from Tamil Nadu and Gujarat coast provides among the best locations from wind power generation. In order
to harness this potential we have formulated offshore wind power policy and expression of interest for initial 1GW off-
shore wind power have already been issued;
• Creating an ecosystem for domestic manufacturing of solar cells is our priority. We have issued expression of interest
for setting up solar PV manufacturing capacities linked with assured off take of 20GW. This stimulus is expected to kick
start domestic manufacturing in solar energy space;
• The Green Energy Corridor projects seek creation of grid infrastructure for renewable power evacuation and to
reshape grid for future requirements. The intra state transmission scheme (InSTS) being implemented by eight renewable
rich States with an investment of Rs. 10,141 crores will set up about 9400 ckm transmission lines and Substations of
total capacity of approx. 19000 MVA to be completed March 2020.
• Over US$ 42 billion investment was made in RE in India during last 4 years. New opportunities have emerged-
altogether new business space has been created. Indian companies have begun to explore foreign stock exchanges as
a source of funds. India is progressively becoming a most favored destination for investment in renewables.
Foreign investors can enter into joint venture with an Indian partner for financial and/or technical collaboration and
for setting up of renewable energy-based power generation projects. 100% foreign investment as equity qualifies for
automatic approval. Government of India is also encouraging foreign Investors to set up renewable energy-based power
generation projects on build-own-operate basis.
• RE projects set up in last 4 years have created around 10 million man day’s employment per annum. The Suryamitra
program was launched for creation of a qualified technical workforce in 2015 and over 18,631 Suryamitras have been
trained under the programme up to 31 March 2018.
• For quality assurance we have notified standards for deployment of solar photovoltaic systems/devices; and
• On 6 December 2017, the International Solar Alliance (ISA) has become first international intergovernmental organization
headquartered in India. ISA is a part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India’s vision to provide clean energy to all.

18 | Energy Next | June 2018

 policy | solar wind hybrid

Solar wind hybrid policy

and its future
The new policy aims to provide a framework of large scale hybrids, while also
encouraging new technologies and new methods for hybridisation, including
energy storage, writes KR Nair, President, Indian Wind Power Association.
sanction for Inter-State bidding of 2500
MW wind-solar hybrid projects through
the Solar Energy Corporation of India.
It has also issued the guidelines as
required under Section 63 of the Central
Electricity Act, for this purpose. However,
recently it has been found that there is
some disconnect and undue delay in
implementing the Central Directives/
Policies at the State level. It is pertinent
to note here that MNRE had issued in
for setting up wind-solar hybrid projects.
Wind generation is predominantly high
during the night while solar generation
is there during day hours only. Many
studies have been conducted and the
graph below shows the mean wind and
solar power distribution in a windy area
in Maharashtra in July, 2017.
The ‘Total’ line in the above graph is
closer to a stable line power generation
than wind or solar individually/stand-

T
August, 2016 the “Repowering Policy” alone. Thus while combining the two
he wind-solar hybrid policy (for replacing old wind turbines) and complementary renewable energy
announced by the MNRE, after a till date not a single State has come out sources at a grid level, it will lead to a
long deliberations and discussions with any guidelines for implementing more balanced grid management and
with all stakeholders for almost two the Repowering Policy, in spite of several transmitting more power in the already
years, has now come in time, which, if reminders and representations from the available transmission infra-structure
implemented properly, would be a boon Industry Associations. including substations and transmission
to the Renewable Energy industry in The studies have shown that combining lines.
India. This hybrid policy would definitely wind and solar energies help to minimise Hybrid systems involve solar PV
pave the way for the efficient utilisation the variability of power output from such systems and Wind Turbine generators
of existing land and transmission technologies and thereby reduce the being configured at the same point of
infrastructure, thereby reducing the threats posed to grid security. There are connection. In order to be classified as
cost of energy. The new policy also several areas in India where both solar hybrid project, the rated capacity of one
aims to provide a framework of large and wind have high to moderate potential source of energy must be atleast 25 per
scale hybrids, while also encouraging
new technologies and new methods for
hybridisation, including energy storage.
While the hybrid policy was under
consideration, some of the investors had
already started a few Solar–Wind hybrid
projects. Hence, the technologies for
wind solar hybrid are in place and it can
take off in a big way with the help and
cooperation of the Central and State
Regulators as well as Electricity Boards
and nodal agencies in the concerned
States.
Even before the Central and State
Regulators have issued guidelines for
implementing the Hybrid Policy at the
State level, MNRE has come out with

June 2018 | Energy Next | 19

 policy | solar wind hybrid

cent of the rated capacity of the other

resource. In a recent study conducted Though the existing wind projects
in Maharashtra at a selected wind farm
with feasibility of solar power installation
could be easily hybridised as it
in the same pooling station, it was found has enough land, for new projects
that installing solar power capacity at
40 per cent of the wind capacity will
acquiring land is a cumbersome
give optimum utilisation of evacuation procedure in some of the States
infrastructure. This configuration will
also ensure that there is negligible
curtailment of evacuation capacity for
hybrid wind and solar plant. The table
below clearly illustrates the findings:
In the above scenario, a wind farm
having capacity of 400 MW was
considered to be connected to a pooling
station having 400 MW capacity. Then
four different scenario of configurations
i.e., 100, 120,160 and 200 MW solar
capacity were considered and it was found
that 160 MW solar with 400 MW wind
provides best utilization of the 400 MW
evacuation infrastructures. The monthly
average Plant Load Factor for 400 MW
Wind and 160 MW Solar combined plant
is shown in the following graph:
Even though the Hybrid policy has
been issued by the MNRE, there are many
challenges in successfully implementing
the Wind Solar Hybrid projects. As
mentioned, there should be proper
guidelines from the State nodal agencies
and cooperation and adherence to the
commitment from the State electricity
boards in line with the policy announced
by the MNRE. Though the existing wind
projects could be easily hybridised as
it has enough land, for new projects
acquiring land is a cumbersome procedure
in some of the States. Presently, for new
wind projects the land is taken on foot-
print basis, but for wind solar hybrid
projects, there should be continuous land
and extra land needs to be purchased
for Solar plant. With the help of MNRE,
Central and State Regulators as well as
State nodal agencies, wind-solar hybrid
projects can take off which would result
effective and optimum utilisation of land,
infrastructure and transmission facilities,
thereby reducing further the cost of
renewable energy in India

(Views expressed by the author are personal)

20 | Energy Next | June 2018

 policy | solar wind hybrid

Hybrid technology to drive

the RE sector ahead

Hybrid solutions help manage the cost of delivery of RE power by ensuring

optimal use of power evacuation systems at different voltage levels , writes Arun
Srivastava, Director General, Independent Solar Power Producers Alliance
fact, hinges even more on the expected
advancements going forward. The
immense possibilities with the RE power,
including the unbelievable positive impact
it has on environment, the low or almost
no-cost availability expected in the future
and other sustainability factors make a
complete switchover to RE based economy
and life style in the near future almost
inescapable. Only the time needed to
complete the transition may possibly be
aggressively and on multiple frontiers,
including the development of storage and
recharging technologies etc.
If we look back, various RE technologies,
particularly those commonly used for
largescale power generation such as
solar or wind, have been around for
decades. However, their relatively
recent acceptance appears to be a direct
fallout of the combination of factors,
including falling costs and the promise

T
echnology and the RE sector
are possibly synonymous and
fully complement each other.
The emergence of RE as a viable energy
alternative has not only been due the
technological developments so far, it in
debated the direction of the shift cannot
be altered. It is this phenomenal possibility
that drives technological advancement
and innovation process. The expectations
of improved technologies with higher
conversion efficiencies, better applications
etc. are pushing the research agenda quite
RE holds for the future, besides of course
the ever increasing cost of fossil fuels,
environmental considerations etc. In
case of solar power generation, the ease
of installation & maintenance coupled
with their phenomenal scalability make
it a more than acceptable alternative.

June 2018 | Energy Next | 21

 policy | solar wind hybrid
Similarly, the possibility of sizing up of the
wind turbines for enhanced productivity
and making them more adaptable under
varying operating conditions besides the
associated cost optimization is playing
important role in their getting widely
accepted. The advancements in forecasting
techniques for accurately predicting the
power generation through RE resources
also have helped matters further. In the
Indian power market the RE power costs
compare quite favourably against other
sources of electricity, a trend also witnessed
globally. Such trends are likely to continue
and hold tremendous promise.
However, yet another factor that is
helpful in rapid emergence of RE as a fairly
reliable and commercially viable energy
source is the possibility of integration
with other energy alternatives. Given the
time and season dependent variability in
availability of RE power, a fine balance
is possible to be struck through hybrid
solutions by combining such technologies
for enhanced combined productivity and
system reliability. For instance, integration
of Solar with Wind offers an excellent
option to ensure RE power being available
for longer durations during the day and
more productive days in a year. Such a
combination is perfectly well suited for
the coastal regions or the windy zones.
Higher wind speeds after the sunset helps
help flattening the RE supply curves by
supplementing the generation of solar
power during the sunny hours of the day.
Hybrid solutions also help manage the
cost of delivery of RE power by ensuring
optimal use of power evacuation systems at
different voltage levels.
The recent trends of falling tariffs for RE
power have expanded the possibilities of
integration of different sources of electricity
generation even beyond the Renewable
Energy spectrum. For instance, it is possible
to integrate the RE power with thermal
power generation with immense benefits to
the power system, besides helping each other.
It is common knowledge that the rates for
RE power has declined appreciably in India
as well as globally and has possibly emerged
as the cheapest source of power generation,
more so if new generation capacities are
to be created. The ever increasing costs of
22 | Energy Next | June 2018
production, transportation and usage of fossil
fuels constantly push up the cost of fossil
fuel based power generation. Similarly the
hydro-electric power also is fast becoming
commercially unviable on account of very
high initial capital investment needs and
long gestation. These conventional power
generation projects may soon face existential
crisis due to commercial challenges. At the
same time, a stand-alone RE capacity also
faces hurdles in growth for want of back-
up support for periods such capacities are
not available. The challenge is expected to
continue at least till such time large scale
commercially viable electricity storage
options get developed. If the conventional
(Thermal and Hydel) as well non-
conventional (RE) options are to be used in
hybrid configuration, both will get helped
besides benefiting the consumers through
moderated costs of delivered electricity
and faster adoption of environmentally
sustainable power generation technologies.
For a hybrid solution integrating RE
with thermal generation, the thermal
generating units would need to be
operated in a variable mode - reducing
the generation to the Technical Minimum
Levels (around 40-50 percent Load Factor)
during the periods of RE availability while
maximizing the generation levels when
the RE options are not available, or during
the peak demand periods, depending on
system requirement. Such an operation
philosophy will also help meet the System
Peak Demand with relatively cheaper
thermal power compared to gas based
generation or diesel engines.
The government as well as the
Electricity Regulators could immensely
help the process of development of hybrid
solutions through supportive policies and
regulations. Such a move could have the
following advantages:
• It will help thermal generation segment
gaining relevance for another few decades by
offering a blended cost of generation through
combination of cheaper renewable power
• It will also support the indigenous coal
industry by ensuring extended demand
for coal for power making optimal use of
indigenous coal
• Optimum utilization of available land
attached to the thermal power plants and
creation of RE capacity without the need to
change the land use pattern - vast tracts of
land acquired for thermal power projects,
especially government owned, for ash
disposal and prefabrication/storage lie idle
or are put to sub-optimal use.
• Effecting cost reduction in case of RE
power commissioned in the existing
conventional plant areas thus saving on the
cost for land, time for acquisition etc.
• RE projects developed on the available
land with the conventional plants,
in most of the cases may not require
additional power evacuation capacity as
the redundancies built in their power
evacuation system would be adequate
to evacuate the RE power as well, at no
additional costs.
• Faster integration of RE capacities
through their supportive role in grid
stabilization
• Helping the technology development
process by way of offering assured market
for improved products
(Views expressed by the author are personal)

The answer to India’s
energy needs
One of the key constraints in the development of solar and wind projects
is access to land and evacuation infrastructure, writes Girish Shivakumar,
Policy Director, IESA
I
ndia has an ambitious plan of 175
GW renewables by 2022, including
40 GW of rooftop solar, 60 GW of
grid-scale solar and 60 GW of wind. By the
end of 2017-18, the total renewable power
installed capacity in the country was
almost 70 GW. India is quickly increasing
its share of renewable energy sources but
still depends on coal, oil and natural gas
and the related carbon emissions for 80
percent of its electricity. RE industry in
India has shown the ability to scale up
rapidly while delivering significantly lower
cost. So the main challenge in meeting
the National Renewable Energy targets is
the ability of the Indian electric grid to
integrate these variable resources.
MNRE released the National Solar-
Wind hybrid policy recently (May 2018)
two years after the draft was released
in 2016. This policy aims to provide a
framework for the promotion of large grid
connected wind-solar PV hybrid system
for efficient utilization of transmission
infrastructure and land. It also aims at
reducing the variability in renewable
power generation and achieving better grid
stability through the integration of energy
storage with such hybrid projects. Solar
and wind power being variable in nature
pose certain challenges on grid security
and stability and therefore suitable policy
interventions are required not only for
new wind-solar hybrid plants but also
for encouraging hybridization of existing
plants.
As per the projections by the Central
Electricity Authority (CEA) in its National
Electricity Plan (NEP), solar and wind
capacity combined could account for
over 25 percent of the installed capacity
in the grid by 2022 if the 160 GW target
is achieved. Experts believe that India
has an ideal market for hybrid projects,
considering that many states are rich in
both wind and solar energy resources.
Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra,
Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh have large
capacities of both wind and solar power
projects.
One of the key constraints in the
development of solar and wind projects
is access to land and evacuation
infrastructure. By co-locating wind and
solar projects, the capacity utilization of
power evacuation increases. These two
modules make up around 25 percent of
policy | RE
the cost for a renewable energy plant.
Using hybrid projects, the wind and solar
modules will feed power into the same
transmission lines, allowing firms to
have almost twice the capacity on each
site and to make better returns on their
investments. Hybrid RE projects can also
ensure the greater contribution of RE
to meet the peak load. Recently, Hero
Future Energies (HFE) commissioned
India’s first solar-wind hybrid project in
Karnataka to better utilize the available
power evacuation. The project at Kavithal,
Raichur district included an existing 50
MW wind farm, now has a neighboring
28.8 MW solar PV site to form a hybrid
system. The project’s evacuation capacity
remains at 50 MW since the primary aim
is to address grid-integration concerns
around variable power coming from
renewable energy. In addition to HFE,
the Solar Energy Corporation of India
had invited expressions of interest or
EoIs from engineering, procurement, and
construction contractors to develop a 160
MW large-scale solar-wind hybrid project
with an energy storage system in Ramagiri
district of Andhra Pradesh. NTPC, too,
June 2018 | Energy Next | 23
 policy | RE

had invited tenders to set up a 3.5 MW It aims at reducing the variability

solar+ wind hybrid power project at NTPC
Kudgi in Karnataka. in renewable power generation
The key challenge for reaching these
ambitious targets would be the ability of
and achieving better grid stability
the grid to integrate variability associated through the integration of energy
with these renewables, as well as the
huge investment required for upgrading
storage with such hybrid projects
the T&D infrastructure. Energy storage and also different groups that have worked energy access and microgrids as well as
can help in better integration of these with donor agencies such as USAID and the EV charging infrastructure as well as
renewable by providing multiple values GIZ. MNRE has issued twice Expression battery requirements. Once this mission
to the system such as optimizing T&D of Interest to develop demonstration document is in place it will act as a
investments, addressing forecasting errors projects in energy storage and Solar guiding document.
in wind and solar generation for more Energy Corporation has issued at least Solar + Storage is anticipated to become
accurate scheduling, addressing local 3 bids for 8-10 projects for RE + storage a viable solution for off grid as well as for
reliability issues by providing reactive projects. Over past 3-4 years, the industry managing peak loads within next 12-18
power support and also enabling end users has enthusiastically supported all these months. This can fuel exponential growth
for managing peak load and more efficient efforts and submitted detailed proposals for storage. IESA has launched MICRO
utilization of distributed renewables etc. to the government. Unfortunately, none (Microgrid Initiative for Campus and
With the rapid reduction in the cost of of the RFPs have resulted in the actual Rural Opportunities) in 2016 with a goal
both solar and storage, customers can see commissioning of the project. This had of reducing the levelized cost of energy for
solar plus storage as an alternative for the created a huge concern for the industry such systems by up to 50 percent by 2020.
peak power from grid at the same time, both in India and globally. Depending on the policy developments
utilities can avoid investments in Peaker Fortunately, current Minister of Power and implementation by various
capacity or eliminate load shedding by and New & Renewable Energy, R.K. Singh government agencies, we anticipate that
utilizing these resources. has taken a very proactive view on the RE + storage hybrid projects will drive
Applications for energy storage related opportunity of energy storage in India. growth for next decade. In future, as
to renewable energy include RE smoothing Under the leadership of MNRE Secretary there is an enforcement in grid discipline
and RE firming. RE smoothing addresses Anand Kumar, expert committee is with penalties for deviations, energy
the short duration variability in output of working on the drafting of the National storage will prove to be a valuable asset
the wind or solar energy (typically within Energy Storage Mission, which is expected in grid integration by smoothing the
15 – 30 mins). RE Firming is shifting of to be launched in June. The mission intermittencies and provide ancillary
renewable energy output to times where will cover aspects related to renewable services for improving the reliability of
grid requires it most (typically 2-4 hours). integration at the transmission level, Indian grid.
Examples of RE firming include shifting distributed renewable integration at the
(Views expressed by the author are personal)
part of solar PV output during 11 AM - 2 distribution level, the role of storage for
PM to 6 PM - 9 PM to meet evening peak
or shifting peak and wind output from
early morning hours to 7 AM to 10 AM
to meet morning ramp up on the grid.
Apart from this energy storage can also be
used to provide reactive power support to
improve renewable integration particularly
on weaker distribution feeders.
Despite the tremendous potential for
integration of RE and energy storage, we
have lost significant time in just discussing
these issues. Since 2014, MOP and MNRE
have created a number of committees such
as at least 2 committees to consider “Large
scale renewable integration challenges” and
“Standing Committee for Energy Storage
and Hybrid Systems”. There is a separate
committee for Greening the Islands project

24 | Energy Next | June 2018

 Policy watch | Solar-Wind Hybrid
‘Combination of wind and
solar to have positive effect on
grid security’
The wind solar hybrid policy and scheme recommends that the hybrid plant will
be recognized if the rated capacity of wind source is at least 25 percent of the rated
capacity of the other source, writes D.V. Giri, Secretary General, Indian Wind
Turbine Manufacturers Association
move and will provide framework for
promotion of large grid connected wind solar
hybrid system for optimum and efficient
utilization of transmission infrastructure and
land. The eligible projects are both green field
(new) and brown field (existing).
The policy and scheme recommends
that the hybrid plant will be recognized
if the rated capacity of wind source is at
least 25 percent of the rated capacity of
the other source. The sales option of the
T
hybrid project may be captive or sale to
he guidelines and scheme for 2500 third party through open access and sale to
MW of wind solar hybrid policy has distribution companies by determined tariff
been announced. This is a welcome by respective SERC or a price discovery
through transparent bidding process. The
scheme also envisages the procured energy
from hybrid plants for solar and non solar
RPO requirement /compliance.
It is encouraging that the policy allows
the use of battery storage in the hybrid
plant to reduce variability of output power
and provide higher energy for a given
capacity at delivery point by installing
additional capacity of wind and solar
power and to ensure availability of firm
power for a particular period of fiscal and
financial incentives available to wind and
solar projects, will be available for the
hybrid projects.
June 2018 | Energy Next | 25
 Policy watch | Solar-Wind Hybrid
ll Advantages
The combination of wind and solar will
address variable nature of both the sources
and have a positive effect on grid security
and stability. Studies have revealed that
the energy generation from solar and
wind complements each other. Hybrid
projects encourage optimum utilization of
infrastructure and land.
Key issues: Stipulation of 25 percent
: As per policy, wind solar plant will be
recognized as hybrid plant if the rated power
capacity of wind source is at least 25 percent
of the rated capacity of the other source. It
is highlighted that unlike solar energy, wind
energy potential is concentrated in eight
states i.e. Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh,
Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat,
Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. It may be
necessary to stipulate that areas where the
wind resource is predominant, solar capacity
should be restricted to 10percent to save
scarce wind resource and land, while in non-
windy states minimum limit of 10 percent of
wind power is used.
Land Utilization: As described above,
wind states and wind sites are very specific.
By a policy, it should encourage and stipulate
of wind rich areas must use 75 percent for
wind and solar to be restricted to 25 percent.
If this is not stipulated the best windy sites
may get occupied by solar which will defeat
the entire purpose. It is a known fact that
26 | Energy Next | June 2018
As per the regulatory framework by
CEA and CERC, the responsibility
of setting up evacuation infra up to
pooling substation is with developer
wind has demonstrated far higher PLF
compared to solar. In other words, wind sites
must be seen as precious natural resource.
Co-location: The policy is not very
clear whether hybrid projects which are not
co-located will qualify under this policy.
It is recommended that these projects also
should be brought under the policy.
Tariff Determination: As envisaged in
the policy, sales options are many which
includes captive, sale to third party through
open access and sale to distribution
companies at a tariff determined by SERC
or through transparent bidding process.
This goes well for green field projects but
will pose issues for brown field projects
where there is already a determined tariff
for wind or solar. It may be necessary to
retain the existing tariff and fix for the
add-on resource at a tariff determined
either by last bid or at existing tariff. As
stated in the policy, solar and wind power
injected from the hybrid project in the grid
will be worked out by apportioning reading
of main metre.
Evacuation Network: Setting up
adequate evacuation network will be critical
for offtake of wind solar hybrid projects. As
per the prevailing regulatory framework by
CEA and CERC, the responsibility of setting
up evacuation infrastructure up to pooling
substation is with the developer. However,
setting up of upstream transmission
infrastructure is the responsibility of the
grid utilities which would pay a significant
role in evacuation of RE Hybrid projects.
Hence it is suggested that state level
planning code has to give priority to grid
planning for RE hybrid.
Low Cost Finance: The draft hybrid
policy had mentioned availability of
Low Cost financing for hybrid projects
may be available through IREDA and
other financial including multilateral
banks. However, it is observed that
such provisions have been removed
while finalizing the policy. In order to
encourage such projects, it is suggested
that incentives such as low cost financing
should be retained.
(Views expressed by the author are personal)
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 SOLAR-WIND HYBRID

Hero Future Energies brings

live India’s first hybrid project
The company would continue to look for additional hybrid projects,
wherever and whenever possible, says Naveen Khandelwal, Chief
Investment & Strategy Officer, Hero Future Energies in an interaction with
Anurima Mondal
of transmission infra. The key advantages of
this hybrid plant are accuracy in forecasting and
scheduling and sharing of resources for O&M,
leading to 50 percent increased revenue.
The way forward for this wind – solar hybrid
project in Karnataka, is integration of battery
storage system in order to utilize the remaining
255 MU’s which is not being evacuated due
to hybrid design limit and for smoothening of
power evacuation.
What are your views on the draft
policy recently released by the
future? Which other states are
you planning to tap?
Project execution was quite similar to any other
solar project, as we added solar capacity to
existing wind project. Only difference being no
work on substation and external transmission
line was required. We appreciate the support for
connectivity approval. To the extent this project
was dependent on this; we got that support from
the KPTCL. Energy from the project is being
sold to third party consumers, in the absence of
specific tariff for hybrids.
Definitely, we would continue to look for

Q
Hero Future Energies ministry for setting up wind-solar- additional hybrid projects, wherever and
recently brought live India’s hybrid projects? whenever possible. However, the same would
first solar wind hybrid in It’s good starting point but still the policy is very be a project specific analysis and decision and
Karnataka. Tell us more about the generic and statement of intent. Lot more and be largely dependent on nature of resource.
project. specific needs to be done to get projects on the State would matter only if the particular state
Hero Future Energies added an exclusive ground. Clarity on project approvals and tariff comes out with a policy or tariff support for such
project in the state of Karnataka to its portfolio, determination process is a key. hybrid project. We are hopeful that some good
which India’s first wind - solar hybrid project. developments would happen in this direction
The project which includes 50 MW of wind What was your overall sooner than later.
and 28.8 MW of solar, has been developed on experience in commissioning
a pilot scale and the idea is to create a model the project? Are you planning to Elaborate on your future plans and
where grid failures can be totally avoided. Thus commission similar projects in the technology initiatives that are
the evacuation has been kept at 50 MW. This
pioneering hybrid of Hero Future Energies has
managed power evacuation and wheeling in the
grid as per required norms of consumers in case
of group captive. The off-takers are industrial
and commercial consumers based in the state of
Karnataka. The industry average PLF for wind
power plants stands at 28 percent and for solar it
is 18.7 percent this hybrid plant benefits from the
cumulative PLF, which is 41.8 percent.
Developers across the country are working
aggressively towards CUF enhancement of their
existing renewable systems which positively
impacts the business. Wind - solar hybrid is not
only an answer to this, but additionally it brings
down the cost of BOP, maximises utilisation of
existing infrastructure and efficient utilization

28 | Energy Next | June 2018

 Interview

driving the company ahead?

We intend to reach 3.5 GW of installed
capacity across wind and solar by 2021. As
we are deploying technology, we use the latest
commercially deployable technology available
to our projects. I see India taking few more years
before we start dictating technology choices to
the world.

What are the milestones achieved

by you in the last one year?
Hero Future Energies installed over 600
MW capacity last year across wind and
solar. This has taken us to total installed
capacity of around 1.15 GW. Further, we
have under construction projects of around
400 MW. Apart from this, we are executing
some marquee projects in rooftop segment.
Moreover, we are also developing projects in
select international geographies. Finally, we
have invested in capability building across
functions in a big way so as to be ready to
embark on next phase of growth.
What are the major challenges
for developers in the sector? How
can those be addressed better?
Having seen improvement in payment profile
of multiple states, we hope that the same is
not short-lived and is a permanent change in
behaviour of the states/Discoms. One major
issue is good visibility of project/bid pipeline
as the same helps companies in planning
the business better. Apart from this, land
acquisition and evacuation infrastructure
continue to be major issues. Uniformity in and
timely processing of approvals and permits
could also be a big support.
How do you see the role of
off-grid solutions like rooftop
solar contributing to the
government’s ambitious project
on 175 GW by 2022
Rooftop solar is going to contribute in
a meaningful way but whether installed
capacity would be near 40 GW is the big
question. There are multiple issues giving rise
to this question and a few are; inconsistent
and difficult to implement net metering
polices across most states, Indian roofs being
used for many alternate usages & capacity
building around design, engineering and
quality of installations etc.
The way forward for wind – solar
hybrid project in Karnataka, is
integration of battery storage system
Of 100 GW solar target, 40GW
is to come from solar rooftop
projects. Do you think ‘rent a
rooftop’ policy can help India
achieve the target?
It seems to be another good initiative. It
should support some demand but I am not
overly optimistic about it’s impact beyond
couple of GWs.
Which is the latest PV technology
adopted in India and best suited
for the Indian market?
PV technology has been experiencing
incremental improvements, on both module
and invertor side. Every year we witness slight
increase in efficiency, module size, voltage level
etc. In last 12 months we have seen further
improvement through introduction of Mono-
PERC modules, Bi-facial modules, Cut-Cell
modules and combinations thereof. Only
point is they are still being installed in Indian
on pilot basis while mass scale deployment is
still of 325-340 Wp poly-modules. Similarly,
on invertor side voltage level has gone upto
800 V from 280 V. Also, due to improvement
in costing, string inverters are being preferred
again now over central inverters, owing to their
efficiency gains and higher availability aspect.
How do you see India emerging
as a global hub of manufacturing
in renewable energy, especially
when it comes to the quality of
products?
As far as wind is concerned, I think we are
already there. We might be behind by a year or
so in terms of introduction of newer products,
but we are getting and deploying them quickly.
Good thing is the entire eco-system of wind
manufacturing is already quite mature in the
country and roll-out of new product is a matter
of produce development and not setting up
entire thing.
In case of solar, despite multiple efforts, we
have not been able to reach to the desired level of
quality and scale which effects entire economics
and does not start virtuous cycle of large scale
solar manufacturing.
Nevertheless, with still continuing efforts of
government we are optimistic that we would be
able to contain import levels of module. I don’t
see India occupying Global Hub position in
visible future.

June 2018 | Energy Next | 29

 Column

Start of a new era in renewable

energy reliability
Renewable hybrid solutions combine energy
generation resources and storage. The promise lies in
resource complementarity, efficient plant utilization,
and ability to closer match production to consumption
or remuneration, writes Praveen Saxena

W
ith an aim to boost
renewable power
generation, the
government on 14th
May 2018 had announced a National
wind-solar hybrid policy, which seeks
to promote new projects as well as
hybridisation of the existing ones.
The month of May 2018, has also seen
crossing of Renewable Power the mark
of 70 GW, with ground mount solar
crossing the mark of 20 GW and wind
by 34 GW in India. As renewable’s
role in power generation expands,
technology becomes an important
enabler. Renewable energy hybrid
solutions have significant potential to
provide the efficiency and flexibility
needed to accelerate the transition to a
renewables-led energy mix.
The wind-solar hybrid policy provides
for a comprehensive framework to
promote large grid-connected wind-
solar photovoltaic (PV) hybrid system
for optional and efficient utilisation
of transmission infrastructure and
land, thereby reducing the variability
in renewable power generation and
achieving better grid stability. This
apart, the policy also aims to encourage
new technologies, methods and way-
outs involving combined operation of
wind and solar PV plants.
Solar and wind power being variable
in nature pose certain challenges on
grid security and stability and therefore
suitable policy interventions are
required not only for new wind-solar
hybrid plants, but also for encouraging
hybridisation of existing plants. The
policy provides for procurement of
power from a hybrid project on tariff-
based transparent bidding process for
which government entities may invite
bids. It also permits use of battery
storage in hybrid projects for optimising
output and further reduces variability.
The policy also mandates the
regulatory authorities to formulate
necessary standards and regulations for
wind-solar hybrid systems.
Under the policy, the government will
extend all fiscal and financial incentives
available to wind and solar power
projects to hybrid projects. It will also
support technology development projects
in the field. The policy provides for the
integration of both the energy sources,
wind and solar, at AC as well as DC
levels.
A number of Studies revealed
that solar and winds are almost
complementary to each other and
hybridisation of two technologies would
help in minimizing the variability.
Superimposition of wind and solar

30 | Energy Next | June 2018

 Praveen Saxena

resource maps shows that there are large

areas where both wind and solar have
high to moderate potential. The Goal of
the Policy is to reach wind-solar hybrid
capacity of 10 GW by 2022. Under the
category of wind-solar hybrid power
plants, Wind and Solar PV systems will
be configured to operate at the same
point of grid connection. There can be
different approaches towards integrating
wind and solar depending upon the size
of each of the source integrated and the
technology type. On the technology
front, in case of fixed speed wind
turbines connected to grid using an
induction generator, the integration
can be on the HT side at the AC output
bus. However, in case of variable speed
wind turbines deploying inverters for
connecting with the grid, the integration
can even be on the LT side before the
inverter i.e. at the intermediate D.C bus.
The other important aspect would
be related to the sizing – which would
depend on the resource characteristics.
In order to achieve the benefits of more than the transmission capacity/ match production to consumption or
hybrid plant in terms of optimal and grid connectivity allowed/sanctioned for remuneration. Wind, complemented by
efficient utilization of transmission existing wind/solar project. However, solar, has imminent potential to improve
infrastructure and better grid stability the additional solar/wind power site production, increase capacity
by reducing the variability in renewable generated from the hybrid project may be factor, and more fully utilize electrical
power generation, in the locations where used for captive purpose or may be sold. connection infrastructure and balance
the wind power density is quite good, The policy has envisaged that the of plant equipment. With the addition
the size of the solar PVs capacity to be Central Commission to lay down of storage, production deployment to
added as the solar-hybrid component the guidelines for determination of system can be shifted in time to more
could be relatively smaller. On the other generic tariff for wind-solar hybrid closely match consumption and/or to
hand, in case of the sites where the wind system. Further, the Commission may meet grid requirements.
power density is relatively lower or frame regulations for forecasting and While the case for hybrid solutions
moderate, the component of the solar scheduling for the hybrid systems. may seem simple, realization of
PV capacity could be relatively on a Further, low cost financing for hybrid benefits is much more complex. It is
higher side. projects may be made available through necessary to right-size hybrid power
As per the policy, existing wind IREDA and other financial institutions plants relative to project business case,
power or solar power projects, willing including multilateral banks. while fulfilling grid requirements. The
to install solar PV plant or wind turbine Renewable hybrid solutions coming years will tell how much this
generators (WTGs) respectively to avail combine energy generation resources technology option would have positive
benefit of hybrid project, are allowed to and storage. The promise lies in impact on capacity addition and over all
do so subject to the fact that the hybrid resource complementarity, efficient Government Target of 175 GW. Wind
power injected in to the grid will not be plant utilization, and ability to closer – Solar Hybrid will certainly open new
avenues in the RE capacity addition in
The promise lies in resource India. The project designers have to be
careful in sizing the plants and chose
complementarity, efficient plant carefully the technologies.
utilization, and ability to closer match The views and opinions expressed in this

production to consumption article are the author’s own and do not

necessarily represent the views of the
magazine.

June 2018 | Energy Next | 31

32 | Energy Next | June 2018
June 2018 | Energy Next | 33
 Rooftop
‘Off-grid solar projects
extremely important for India’
Making new and old residential, institutional, commercial, and
government buildings solar compatible is the best way to support green
energy adoption, says Neha Agrawal, Head of Corporate Strategy and
Rooftop Business, Vikram Solar in a conversation with Sonali Chowdhury.
Q
What are the major
achievements of Vikram
Solar in the last one year?
The major milestones achieved by Vikram Solar
in last financial year are:
• Commissions 10 MWp solar plant in Andhra
Pradesh, India in April
• Becomes Top performer in DNV GL Module
Reliability Scorecard Report 2017 in July
• Modules used for solar project at Helsinki-
Vantaa Airport in September
• Commissions 80 MW solar project in Gujarat
in September
• Conferred with ‘Leading renewable energy
manufacturer – Solar Modules’ award at
the Renewable Energy India Expo 2017 in
September
• Launches New Monocrystalline Product Line
SOMERA in October
• Awarded Gold Certificate of Merit at
the Frost & Sullivan and FICCI’s India
Manufacturing Excellence Awards 2017 in
December
• Installs 100 kw Rooftop Solar plant on SBI
Patna office in December
• Gyanesh Chaudhary was appointed as the
Chairman of Renewable Energy & Energy
Storage Division of IEEMA in January 2018
• Opens Office in Massachusetts, 2nd office in
34 | Energy Next | June 2018
United States in February
• Ties up with France’s CEA to drive innovative
technology research and development in March
• Commissions 100 kWp Rooftop Solar Plant
for Indian Oil Corporation Ltd in March 2018
• Commissions 350 kW rooftop solar project
for Gun and Shell Factory, Cossipore, Kolkata
in March 2018
How do you see India emerging as
a global hub of manufacturing in
renewable energy, especially when
it comes to the quality of products?
India has immense potential of becoming the
hub for solar manufacturing (which is the
leading choice for renewable energy world wide).
Policy reformations and initiatives like Make in
India have brought investments and presented
an opportunity for industrial development,
job creation and economic growth. And India
focusing on solar creates the perfect industry for
the country to leverage manufacturing growth.
However, continued solar imports (In FY 15-
16, the expenditure jumped to $2.3 billion and
within FY 16-17, India spent $3.1 billion in solar
equipment imports, while in FY 17-18 (Apr-Feb)
the expense amounted to $3.5 billion.) have
limited investment in solar technology R&D,
establishment of testing facilities, and support to
domestic manufacturing.
Besides, confusion relating to GST,
safeguard, and delays in imposition of anti-
dumping on imported modules hinder India’s
chances of becoming global manufacturing hub
in a demanding industry.
India needs to focus on enhancing its
module manufacturing capacity, as it is the
finished product. And investing money in
domestic solar development, R&D, testing
facility development and bringing new
manufacturing policy would certainly help.
Elaborate on the technology
initiatives that is driving the
company ahead?
Vikram Solar has always been focused on
quality, innovation, and performance. It is the
first company to gain recognition as Tier 1
Module manufacturing company in India by
Bloomberg New Energy Finance. Vikram Solar
has two state of the art manufacturing facilities
in Falta, West Bengal with a scope for further
expansion in Phases.
Our manufacturing facility has the finest
machinery and equipment imported from
United States, Switzerland, Germany and
Japan. Our products are designed to the highest
standards of quality, reliability and performance.
Our in-house research and development efforts
help us in being ahead of the curve in the ever
evolving solar technology space. We conduct
research study programmes with leading
laboratories across the globe like DNV GL,
Photovoltaic Technology Laboratory Cyprus etc.
We have signed MOUs with tech leaders
across the globe to keep developing and
improving our technology for best-in-class
product manufacturing. We are also investing
in development of new products like recently
introduced Mono-Crystalline high efficiency
modules SOMERA.
Which segment does the majority
of your solar rooftop customers
belong to-industrial, institutional
or residential?
Currently, solar installation on Government
buildings (across 52 projects) stands as the
largest share of our rooftop projects. Telecom
towers (across 40 projects) take the second
position in the list, and educational institutions
(across 26 projects) third position by majority
of addressed projects. We have commissioned

rooftop solar projects in nearly 180 locations
within India.
Do you see the role of off-grid
solutions like rooftop solar
contributing to the government’s
ambitious project on 175 GW by
2022?
Off-grid solar projects are extremely important
for India to achieve its 40 GW installed capacity
within 175 GW target by 2022. Making new and
old residential, institutional, commercial, and
government buildings solar compatible is the
best way to raise awareness, involve common
man in the process, and continuously improve
infrastructure to support green energy adoption.
The rooftop sector in India has been adding
from 72 MW to 227 MW capacity per year since
2013. In 2016, this sector surpassed the 1 GW
mark showing 113 percent growth over 2015. In
2017, India added nearly 863.92 MW of rooftop
solar capacity, standing at ~2.1 GW capacity.
However, issues like- the financial support is
only available after commissioning of the plant,
lack of fund generation, lack of enforcement
in mandating state wise rooftop targets, lack
of information regarding cost, benefits, and
important information before going solar, and
lack of clarity on policies are limiting Indian
off-grid solar growth. With improved support,
investment, and clarity in policies Indian
rooftop growth is estimated to become a 3 GW
per annum market by 2020.
Of 100 GW solar target, 40GW
is to come from solar rooftop
projects. Do you think ‘rent a
rooftop’ policy can help India
achieve the target?
‘Rent a rooftop policy’ is a great initiative
to involve the common man in the process
enabling building owner and developer both to
benefit. However, its success depends on raising
awareness, making buildings solar compatible
and enforcing net-metering facilities.
To make developers interested in this
endeavour, Government also needs to bring in
flexible financing and stabilizing tariffs. With
such support, India can make positive changes
through policies like ‘Rent a rooftop’.
The government has instituted
multiple enablers such as capital
subsidy on system costs, huge
tax incentives, net metering
regulations etc. What is still
lagging in the system affecting
the rooftop installations?
Rooftop solar sector is showing incredible
growth in the recent years. The sector in India
has been adding from 72 MW to 227 MW
capacity per year since 2013. In 2016, this sector
surpassed the 1 GW mark showing 113 percent
growth over 2015. In 2017, India added nearly
863.92 MW of rooftop solar capacity, standing
at ~2.2 GW capacity. And all these have been
achieved by Government support, subsidies,
incentives and policies in play.
However, there are issues like- financial
support is only available after commissioning of
the plant. Therefore, it befalls upon the consumer
to bear the initial investment. Besides, there are
some discrepancies and delays in getting the
subsidies after commissioning a plant, which
only creates problems for the consumer.
It is a fact that Indian Government is actively
focusing on generating fund for rooftop
growth. But, to reach more than 95 percent
of the remaining targeted capacity (40 GW)
within next 5 years, the fund generation has
to be boosted.Net-metering also doesn’t have
required clarity on implementation models.
And requirement for multiple permissions,
lack of awareness within the utility stuff and
the consumers is creating a huge challenge to
meet installation targets. Additionally, some
states impose cap on net-metering capacity. For
Interview
example, if 1 MW id the cap, then any rooftop
plant higher than 1 MW capacity have to lose
out on net-metering benefits for its additional
capacity. In regards of consumer awareness,
India needs to disclose information about cost,
benefits, and important information to go solar.
More investment, flexible financing, stabilizing
tariff are the most important areas India needs
to look into for rooftop solar growth.
What is the performance of your
rooftop solar segment so far?
Since 2010, Vikram Solar has undertaken
over 180 rooftop projects at over 250 sites,
and continuously ranks amongst the top
three Rooftop Installers in India. Our projects
spread across India and our wide-ranged EPC
experience in building solar plants in difficult
terrains, high altitudes, and coastal areas is
testimony to our prowess in the domain.
Our involvement ranges from concept,
engineering, execution and commissioning,
to operations and maintenance of completed
solar array systems. Our dedicated teams
work in strong cohesion to deliver customized
solutions to our customers keeping a delivery
focussed approach and excellence as the crux
of our initiative. We have a proven track record
of 20 MW installed rooftop solar capacity in
India. We have installed and commissioned
projects in educational institutions, FMCG
organisations, government buildings, airports,
railway stations, temples, and many more.
June 2018 | Energy Next | 35
 Interview

‘Rooftop solar energy market displays

an accelerating growth curve’
Rooftop solar has shown remarkable progress lately, with several Discom
level government policies, like the SRISTI scheme, proving to be a huge
boon, says Sunil Rathi, Director – Sales & Marketing, Waaree Energies in an
interview with EN team.
viz the “Solar Module Company of the
Year”, “Outstanding Contribution To Brand
India”, “Solar PV EPC Company of the Year”,
Dun & Bradstreet “Best Developing solar
infrastructure in the country” and “India’s Top
500 Companies 2017”. These recognitions keep
us motivated to continue the good work.
Elaborate on your future plans and
the technology initiatives that are
driving the company ahead?
Waaree Energies as a company is constantly
developing and expanding. We are planning to
franchise model, which not only helps
revolutionise solar technology in the country,
but also makes clean energy more accessible.
Known as Waaree Solar Experience Centres,
the franchises are developed as part of a
collaboration with several channel partners
of Waaree Energies, to help in the growth and
expansion of the existing products and service
networks. With as many as 250 centres having
already been established, we aim at building
1000 more by the end of the current year. In
the past four years, we have spent a substantial
amount on Research and Development, and

Q
What are the milestones increase our manufacturing capacity to 1.2 GW. investments in cutting-edge technology in
achieved by you in the last We are also bringing technology for light weight order to develop high-quality products.
one year? and high efficiency of modules.
We, at Waaree Energies, continue to stand for We are also working on increasing our How can the solar industry change
state of the art technology and operational solar structure capacity and planning to reach landscape of commercial transport
excellence with an ever present focus on market- 1200 tons per month. Our local presence, in India? What role will Merlin
facing innovation. With three years on the teamed with the capabilities, reach, and brand module play?
Bridge to India Report as Rank No.1 – Indian presence of an international organisation, We have already launched one of the most
Solar Module Manufacturer, Waaree enjoys will further be augmented by our unique innovative technologies in solar modules -
a consistent presence on the TIER 1 Module
Manufacturers List. Keeping our vision to
bring new developments in the field of Solar
Modules, and adding to our many firsts in the
Indian market, we have pioneered MERLIN,
5BB, Bifacial, AC Module 1500V & Explosion
Proof Solar Modules. In the year 2017-18, we
also ventured into ‘FloatON’ Floating Solar
Technology. In addition, to boost rooftop
installations, we recently launched Pronto, the
solar DIY kit, which enables installing of 1KW
system in less than 30 minutes.
We have also successfully become the
only solar company in India with over 250
franchisees, catering to solar needs across the
nation. We are further expanding our franchisee
network, and are on track of meeting and
exceeding our target of 1000 franchisees by 2019.
Our work was recognized with more
than 10 awards in 2017-18 in Solar sector,

36 | Energy Next | June 2018


Merlin solar modules. Merlin modules have their
own unique strengths which is its flexibility and
rugged nature. It is a technology that mitigates
hot spots or micro cracks all the while generating
more power while giving an application
advantage. Currently we are executing few
orders in India, including Indian railways, where
we are implementing Merlin on the rail coach
rooftops. A lot of e-rickshaws are now coming
with Merlin solar panels which have empirically
shown dramatic increase in range of the
e-rickshaw while also increasing the life of the
battery. It is next generation technology and we
expect more demand in future. We have started
manufacturing a small capacity of 20 MW this
year and soon we will have big capacity in India.
How do you see the role of off-
grid solutions like rooftop solar
contributing to the government’s
ambitious project on 175 GW by
2022?
The demand potential for rooftop solar energy
has grown significantly in the last few years,
finding applicability in industrial, commercial,
and institutional projects as well. The potential
contribution from these is conservatively
estimated to be roughly 3 GW this year, an
increase from last year’s figures of around 1
GW. As a result, the confidence of the EPC
market and the commercial industry has also
increased significantly.
The rooftop solar energy market always
displays an accelerating growth curve, as there
is an abundance in the supply of rooftops,
limited only by people’s apprehensions
regarding its performance, sustainability, and
practicality. However, it has shown remarkable
progress lately, with several Discom level
Government policies, like the SRISTI scheme,
proving to be a huge boon. Under the scheme,
solar energy companies receive incentives for
rooftop solar technology installation, besides
additional subsidies if they meet or exceed
last year’s numbers. The process of obtaining
approvals from has become simpler and faster,
owing to these schemes. Also, multi-location
rooftop funding through banks has become
a possibility today, because of the growing
popularity and viability of the technology. This
has given rise to more Captive Model Open
Access Projects for Large Consumers, which
has the potential to become a 5 GW annual
market. In addition, this has increased the
confidence of off takers in the technology, as the
existing projects have been showing substantial
savings in their energy expenditure.
The soon to be launched Renewable Energy
Act is expected to be a boon for the sector as
well, predicting a bright future for solar energy
in the EPC market as well as to the entire
industry. There are lot of building integration
like BIPV, and many countries and architects
are working on it to make the solar integral
part of construction.
Of 100 GW solar target, 40GW is to
come from solar rooftop projects.
Do you think ‘rent a rooftop’ policy
can help India achieve the target?
The 100 GW target includes 40 GW through
de-centralized rooftop projects, 40 GW through
utility-scale solar plants, and 20 GW through
ultra-mega solar parks. The target, while
definitely ambitious, is not entirely unachievable.
Owing to the constant innovation taking
place and new technology becoming available,
installations and projects which would have
earlier taken 10 years are now completed in a
span of just 12 months. However, the primary
factor making the target achievable is the
constant support and focus of the government
on the sector. Time and again, we have seen
the government ensure that the country is on
the path of transitioning to a future reliant on
renewable energy. Rent a rooftop shall further
boost the installations.
How do you see India emerging
Rooftop
as a global hub of manufacturing
in renewable energy, especially
when it comes to the quality of
products?
Over the last few years, the Indian solar energy
sector has seen an exponential growth. The
turning point for it, however, has been the
ambitious target of 100 GW of solar energy
generation, to be achieved by 2022, that was
announced by the government. Coupled
with India’s commitment to the Paris Climate
Agreement, the industry saw a renewed interest
from all quarters. It is imperative for the policies
and subsidies introduced to be in sync and
aid the industry become active partners in
achieving the goal. The Make in India initiative
has furthered the strengths of domestic solar
manufacturers and helped showcase their
capabilities. However, there is a dire need for
imposing policies pertaining to safeguard duty
and anti-dumping, in order to continue this
endeavour. The introduction of the Modified
Special Incentive Package (MSIP) will also be
beneficial for the Indian manufacturers and
help the industry receive the much required
boost to reach the target. At Waaree, we practice
stringent quality control and assurance plan,
from new resource inwards to the process of
finished goods. Waaree Energies is committed
to provide state of the art solar solution. We
hold a global reputation for quality, efficiency,
reliability and customer care. We have a strong
and loyal customer base. We are faithful to give
the customers the best quality of solar products
and meet the market demands.
June 2018 | Energy Next | 37
 Solar
‘We remain committed to the Indian
distributed energy market’
The rooftop segment needs collective efforts to propel its growth to meet
the target capacity of 40GW by 2022, says Sanjeev Aggarwal, MD, Amplus
Energy Solutions in an interaction with Sonali Chowdhury
Q
What are the milestone of
Amplus Solar in the last
one year?
Every year Amplus is trying to add more
MWs and solarize new businesses. In its
effort to evolve and cater to the ever-changing
dynamics of the market, Amplus keeps
experimenting and innovating. Last year, we
added a few more firsts to our credibility.
• First company to raise financing under ADB
38 | Energy Next | June 2018
& World Bank rooftop arrangement.
• 175MW solar plant constructed at Gadag,
Karnataka supplying power to 30+ customers
under the open access route.
• First of its kind plants with smart Energy
Management System.
a) Solar with battery system at Western
UP Toll Plaza at Siwaya (near Meerut)- 83
kWp Solar capacity and 96 kWh Lithium-ion
Battery System.
b) Solar with battery system at Vanbhawan
(Forest Department), Gadchiroli, Nagpur
of size 15 kWp Solar capacity and 96 kWh
Tubular Flooded Lead Battery
• Felicitated for Best Application and Uses of
Renewable Energy Award – National energy
Circle By CII
• Consumer Choice Award 2017 and Solar
Quarter Power List 2017being conferred to
Mr Sanjeev Aggarwal (MD and CEO) by Solar
Quarter.
• The international recognition Middle East
Solar Leadership Award 2017 for Best Solar IT
and Analytics Company of the year.
Elaborate on the technology
initiatives that is driving the
company ahead?
Amplus solar has been a pioneer in providing
distributed energy solutions to its customers with
its unique business model of zero upfront cost
and guaranteed savings.
Additionally, Amplus also has the advantage
of being the first movers to establish solar energy
solution combined with Battery Energy Storage
System (BESS) for commercial entities in the
solar industry. This innovative solution can offer
various functionalities like DG Mitigation, Peak
Shaving, etc, thereby, increasing the potential
savings of the clients. In addition to this, it
enhances the flexibility of client’s power supply,
especially for critical facilities which commonly
face grid outages. Amplus is diversifying in
new avenues such as Energy Efficiencies,
Smart Cities, and concentrated solar power
technologies among others.

How do you see the role of off-
grid solutions like rooftop solar
contributing to the government’s
ambitious project on 175 GW by
2022?
India’s solar capacity stands at 21GW (upto
March 2018), out of which only 1GW comes
from solar rooftops. But according to the
NSM, 40 percent of 100GW solar by 2022 is
supposed to come from rooftops. Now, that is
a highly ambitious target and would require
collective efforts from all stakeholders. The
rooftop market has gained momentum
recently and is being well accepted by
commercial and industrial customers
throughout India. This shift is mainly because
of the immense potential savings in their
electricity bills and the benefits of switching
to a greener and sustainable resource. But
we are still far behind from our target of
40GW by 2022 and majority of the capacity is
concentrated in a few states and is driven by
commercial and industrial users.
For rooftop solar to scale considerably,
concerted efforts must be directed to develop a
positive and collaborative market led ecosystem,
easing the process of adoption especially for
residential consumers, promote net metering
extensively, extension of tax holidays and other
taxes, mandating and enforcing renewable
purchase obligations, improving the financial
health of discoms and strengthening of the grid
infrastructure to accommodate 40GW of solar
rooftops by 2022.
This would enable greater uptake
of rooftop solar power by individuals,
providing them access to cheaper and more
environmentally friendly power and making
solar a household name.
What is the performance of your
rooftop solar segment so far? What
is the market share that you are
aiming to tap in the solar rooftop
segment?
We have an in-house analytics and remote
monitoring team that analyses data across
all our plants on a real time basis. Hence,
operational decisions like cleaning frequency
can be evaluated and any fault or issue is
reported and tendered to immediately. This
has reduced our downtime to almost zero and
our plants have been performing at an uptime
of 99.8 percent.
How do you plan to scale up
operations in the rooftop solar
segment?
We remain committed to the Indian distributed
energy market and continue to strive for
maintaining a good momentum in terms of
capacity deployment including open access
plants, energy efficiency, data analytics, and
rooftop solar. Amplus plans to develop about
1000MW of solar projects majority of it coming
from rooftops and provide energy services
globally in the next 3-5 years.
The government has instituted
multiple enablers such as capital
subsidy on system costs, huge
tax incentives, net metering
regulations etc. What is still
lagging in the system affecting the
rooftop installations?
The rooftop segment as discussed above has not
yet reached critical mass in terms of capacity
growth as compared to utility scale, which
has outpaced expectations. Although, the
government has introduced various measures
to ensure capacity scale up, it is still far below
expectation.
Rooftop systems are slightly costlier than
utility scale because of the small size and
customized nature. And the recent policy
reforms of implementation of GST, increase in
module prices and confusion around anti-
dumping and safe guard duty have inhibited
customer interest due to increased tariffs.
Additionally, majority of the rooftop installed
capacity is concentrated in a few states and
among commercial and industrial customers.
Comparable demand side push to support the
supply side would ensure quick deployment of
rooftop capacity. Demand side measures such
as enforcing RPOs, mandating existing and new
residential buildings to install solar rooftops,
effective net metering mechanism across all
states, debt financing schemes for rooftop owners
need to be enforced alongwith continued policy
support and consistent rule implementation
across geographies would provide the platform
for developers such as Amplus to convert this
into capacity on the ground.
Of 100 GW solar target, 40GW is to
come from solar rooftop projects.
Do you think ‘rent a rooftop’ policy
can help India achieve the target?
INTERVIEW
The rooftop segment needs collective efforts to
propel its growth to meet the target capacity of
40GW by 2022. Hence, measures such as “rent a
rooftop” can push the capacity expansion target
especially for the residential segment. This way,
the developer can rent the unused roof space in
return of a lease to the owner and can sell/ feed
power to the grid leading to effective penetration
at the grassroots level and enabling energy
independence.
However, it is essential that the government
protects the interests of all the stakeholders
involved and define a regulatory framework/
backbone that would promote an empowering
ecosystem.
Which is the latest PV technology
adopted in India and best suited
for the Indian market?
The latest and most commonly used technology
in India (especially rooftop solar) is an extension
of conventional crystalline silicon cells only
which is called PERT-mono silicon cells where
PERT stands for Passivated Emitter and Rear
Totally Diffused.
How do you see India emerging
as a global hub of manufacturing
in renewable energy, especially
when it comes to the quality of
products?
The government is highly supportive of the
renewable energy manufacturing segment and
is pushing various reforms such as Make in
India, anti-dumping and safeguard duty for the
segment to scale up. Such reforms would benefit
equipment manufacturers but are a cause of great
concern for project developers due to increased
project costs and dampening investor interests.
Incase of solar manufacturing, although
there a few players who are best in class and
have a good presence in terms of scale and
capacity, there are many others who have
obsolete manufacturing lines. Hence, in
order to bring domestic manufacturing at
par with its foreign counterparts in terms of
pricing and quality and reduce dependency
on imports, large players must be incentivized
to use domestic manufacturing in their
projects, financial incentive must be provided
to the manufacturers to help lower down
capital costs, provide finance and access to
new and improved technology and exempt
manufacturers from all taxes and duties.
June 2018 | Energy Next | 39
 Interview
‘Rural areas serve as promising
market for off-grid solar’
There is immense scope for off-grid PV technologies in developing countries
like India, says Simarpreet Singh, Founder-Director, Hartek Solar in an
interaction with Anurima Mondal
Q
Hartek Solar recently
launched customised
rooftop solar kits. Tell us
more about these plug-and-play
kits and the technology used.
Hartek Solar’s customised rooftop solar kits
come with an option of a unique remote
sensing technology tailor-made for small-scale
40 | Energy Next | June 2018
solar plants. The remote sensing technology
has largely remained confined to large rooftop
solar installations owing to its non-viability
for small-scale solar from the commercial
viewpoint. Hartek Solar has now made this
technology commercially feasible for small-
scale plants as well by linking remote sensing
with consumers’ Wi-Fi or GPRS SIM card to
get alerts on cleaning and maintenance as well
as real-time data on energy generation and
savings. Consumers can avail this service either
through web browser or mobile application.
The remote sensing technology aids lower
downtimes and has quicker fault detection tools
aimed at optimising generation.
How will Hartek Solar’s
standardised small-scale solar
solutions be a decisive step
in tapping the rooftop solar
market?
Hartek Solar’s standardised small-scale
solar solutions promise to be a game
changer in driving the demand for rooftop
solar in the residential, commercial and
industrial categories owing to the various
advantages they offer. Designed as 5-10 kWp
plug-and-play kits, these small-scale solar
installations will cater to both net metering
and gross metering consumers. Offered in
different configurations depending on the
area available, these standardised plug-
and-play kits can be installed in a matter of
hours rather than days. The kits have been
specifically designed for RCC roofs. Their
non-invasive structure design with roof
protection pads rules out any damage to the
roof. The 10-kWp kits, on the other hand,
are ideal for 2-kanal houses, nursing homes,
hotels and other commercial establishments.
Addressing the major issue of regular
monitoring and maintenance associated
with small-scale solar plants so as to ensure
operational efficiency, Hartek Solar has also
 Solar Rooftop

decided to extend services for cleaning modules

on a fortnightly or monthly basis, checking
the efficiency of solar plants after every three
months and servicing the inverters twice a year.
Simple to install, easy to maintain,
weatherproof and eco-friendly, Hartek Solar’s
customised solar kits act as a safeguard to
constantly rising cost of electricity. The cost-
effective kits have been so optimally designed
that the labour and maintenance costs are bare
minimum. With a break-even period of three
years and four months, rooftop solar is a win-
win situation for residents, enabling them to
reap its benefits for the next 22 years. Rooftop
plants have a life span of about 25 years.

Where are you planning to

install these kits? What are the
responses of your consumers till
now?
Our plug-and-play rooftop solar kits cater
not only to the residential category but also
industrial and commercial consumers. We
plan to put up at least 100 such installations
in residential, commercial and industrial
categories in the next six months, targeting
Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula as well as
industrial clusters in Ludhiana, Baddi, Dera
Bassi and Mandi Gobindgarh.
Our small-scale solar solutions will benefit
kanal houses, housing societies, nursing
homes, small commercial establishments,
hotels and micro, small and medium
enterprises (MSMEs). We are going all
out to tap the small-scale solar market by
approaching commercial establishments and
medical, hotel and restaurant associations.
We will also be conducting door-to-door
and social media campaigns to draw on
the residential category. We will adopt a
cluster-based approach to reach out to end
consumers in the residential, industrial and
commercial categories.
While shortage of space in cities is a major
constraint, the adoption of rooftop solar in the
residential category can make all the difference.
We aim to make our small-scale solar solutions
an integral part of the upcoming Smart and
Model Solar Cities. Effective net metering
policies can be a game changer in shaping
Model Solar Cities like Chandigarh.
Our rooftop solar kits have received a
tremendous response from residents, as
evident by the fact that we have secured 20
We have set a target of 10-MW rooftop
solar projects by the end of the current
FY. In the process, we will build on our
rooftop portfolio in the commercial,
industrial and residential segments
orders in Chandigarh alone. We have already
executed a 10-kWp project based on state-of-
the-art remote monitoring system at a temple
in Chandigarh.
Elaborate on your future plans and
the technology initiatives that are
driving the company ahead?
We have set a target of executing 10-MW
rooftop solar projects by the end of the current
financial year. In the process, we will build
on our rooftop portfolio in the commercial,
industrial and residential segments. Pursuing
the 40-GW target, the government is all set to
give a big push to the rooftop segment, and we
are up for it. The rooftop segment is set to grow
at a faster pace than the market for utility-scale
projects in the near future with constantly
declining tariffs and net metering expected to
emerge as the game changers.
We enjoy a competitive edge in developing
and providing complete rooftop solutions,
right from installation of solar panels and
inverters to supply, design, engineering and
commissioning. Planning to come up with
innovative solutions like solar tree and solar
fencing, we will also be focusing on energy
storage solutions and charging stations
infrastructure to build a truly sustainable
ecosystem for future generations.
Excelling in in-house design and
engineering, we follow uncompromising quality
standards. Our expertise in executing smart
grid technologies is one of our key strengths.
We have bagged a prestigious smart grid order
from the Punjab State Power Corporation Ltd
for the supply, installation and commissioning
of Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition
(SCADA) relays at 55 substations in the
upcoming Smart Cities of Ludhiana, Amritsar
and Jalandhar. By equipping these substations
with SCADA relays, the Hartek Group will
enable collection and storage of information
relating to any indications for troubleshooting
and maintenance, thus making the power
systems smart and robust. This order is a
stepping stone to establishing our leadership
in smart grid power solutions. Incidentally,
SCADA systems are also ideal for integration of
large-scale renewable energy systems.

June 2018 | Energy Next | 41

 Solar

‘Industry has
matured for both
solar and wind
technologies’

Both solar and wind technologies complement each other to a large extent
and a support from government for hybrid systems and policy for the same
is a welcome step, says Rahul Mishra, CEO, Rays Future Energy in an
interview with Anurima Mondal

Q
What are the milestones
achieved by you in the
last one year?
Rays Future Energy was conceptualized
in 2017 with focus on solar rooftop, solar
open access and e-mobility. In the last one
year we have won tenders from prestigious
government organizations like SECI,
ONGC and Delhi Jal Board among others
for rooftop business. In the private sector,
we have executed agreements with reputed
educational institutions, manufacturing
companies, textiles group etc and have an
order book of 20MW+ with a pipeline of
40MW+.
We have also successfully commissioned
130 MW of solar power projects in the
state of Karnataka under open access. It’s
an accomplishment as the projects were
completed in record time right from land
acquisition to commissioning. The list of
off-takers included industry leaders like
Metro Cash and Carry, Toyota, ASK Brakes,
Heidelberg Cement, Essilor among others.
All in all, it has been a very successful year
for the Company with business development

42 | Energy Next | June 2018


under rooftop as well as open access.
What are your views on draft
policy recently released by the
ministry for setting up wind-
solar-hybrid projects?
Among all the renewable technologies, wind
and solar have been the most successful till
now and the industry has matured for both
these technologies. Moreover, both these
technologies complement each other to a
large extent and a support from government
for hybrid systems and policy for the same is
a welcome step.
Both wind and solar have different but
overlapping generation profiles. While
solar generates during the day, wind can
during the day as well as night but depends
on wind. Seasonally, also they are different
in terms of generation. A hybrid system
would address the concerns of grid stability
occurring due to intermittent nature of
these technologies. However, even the
hybrid system would be able to address it
partially only.
The policy also talks about enabling
hybrid system at existing projects. However,
availability of existing transmission
infrastructure, land availability around the
existing projects, connectivity issues etc are
some of the concerns that the policy should
address.
Recently, the tariffs for solar as well
as wind reached to their all-time lows.
However, in future the prices may not move
in tandem for both the technologies. The
regulatory commissions would need to
ensure that framework for pricing for such
hybrid systems considers all the applicable
factors for both the technologies.
Elaborate on your future plans
and the technology initiatives
that are driving the company
ahead?
Our company has extensive focus on the
development of rooftop solar projects
and open access projects in solar. We
are working to develop over 200MW in
next one year under both rooftop and
open access. We plan to become the
most preferred developer and owner of
distributed and open access solar power
projects.
Net metering policy needs to be more
developer friendly. As of now every
state has a different policy and some
states do not even allow or promote it
Further, we are exploring in detail the
market for readymade or DIY kits for
smaller rooftops with capacities ranging
from 1-3 KW. This segment has huge
potential especially in residential or rural
sector. However, to tap this potential,
a standard and easy to install system is
needed to get the right economies of scale
and keep the costs down. We also intend
to develop a strong distribution network
for such systems. Further, these small solar
systems are best suited for being coupled
with energy storage. Other initiatives, which
the company explores and plans to enter,
are energy storage systems, electric vehicles,
energy efficiency and optimization.
What are the major challenges
for developers in this sector?
How can those be addressed
better?
Net metering policy needs to be more
developer friendly. As of now every state
has a different policy and some states do not
even allow or promote it. Also, under the
existing policy framework, it is very time
consuming. This results into lot of potential
getting wasted. If the net metering policy
can be made more flexible, mandatory and
uniform across states, the high pace of solar
roof top development can be unleashed.
Interview
The financing for renewable energy
systems has still not developed as expected.
In India, commercial banks and NBFCs
constitute a major source for financing
infrastructure projects including renewable
energy systems. But the interest rates are
much higher than those in the developed
nations. The Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy along with Ministry of
Finance should come up with innovative
financing measures to promote these
capital-intensive renewable energy projects.
Financing measures such as clean energy
fund, generation based incentive linked loan
repayments and green bonds are some of the
possible instruments that shall be promoted.
The adequate and reliable transmission
and distribution infrastructure is very much
needed. As of now, the availability of such
infrastructure is mostly limited and not
sufficient. It would also be helpful if the
government can provide a one stop reliable
source for central infrastructure database
for entire country.
Land is another factor that needs to be
appropriately addressed. As of now, the land
acquisition is a very time consuming and
tedious process. Further, every state has
different procedures for land acquisition.
Moreover, finding a suitable land which is
non-agricultural and unused, with good
June 2018 | Energy Next | 43
 Interview | SOLAR
The development of mini grids or
smart grids has ensured that solar
rooftop systems can reach to the
remotest locations now as the energy
from sun is available everywhere
solar irradiance, is challenging. MNRE
envisaged setting up of solar parks of
capacities of more than 500 MW, leaving
the responsibility of land identification and
acquisition on states or developers. One
such Ultra Mega Solar Power Project of
4000MW capacity in Rajasthan was stalled
due to problems related to land acquisition.
The government also needs to ensure a
reliable and trustworthy policy framework
and environment. There have been instances
where policies have been changed either
retrospectively or impacted the projects
already awarded or commissioned. This
has resulted into losses to developers who
conceptualized or developed the projects
based on certain policy and invested
millions. This also resulted into erosion of
investors and lenders confidence especially
the foreign investors. This is not good
for the development of infrastructure
projects in India as they require extensive
investments, have longer gestation periods
and the support from both lenders and
investor is critical for development.
How do you see the role of Off-
44 | Energy Next | June 2018
Grid solutions like rooftop solar
contributing to the government’s
ambitious project on 175 GW by
2022?
Poor quality of grid supply (low voltage,
fluctuating frequency and frequent
interruptions), high tariffs (much higher
than actual cost of supply), unfair
impositions (peak hour restrictions and
unplanned load shedding) and unresponsive
attitude of State Electricity Boards have
forced many to isolate themselves from the
state grid and be on their own.
The solar roof top system is one way
to develop an off grid system. As of
now, rooftop solar is the most successful
distributed solar system in India. The
abundance of large and small rooftops, ease
and quickness of installation, the steep fall
in costs of the solar systems, evolvement of
solar rooftop DIY kits, the development of
RESCO model etc are some of the factors
that has led to accelerated adoption of
rooftop solar systems and is expected to
grow at a much faster pace.
Secondly, off grid solar systems is a
boon in rural areas, where grid availability
is still feeble or not at all available. The
development of mini grids or smart grids
has ensured that solar rooftop systems can
reach to the remotest locations now as the
energy from SUN is available everywhere.
With the advent of energy storage systems
and they possibly becoming cheaper sooner
than expected, the off grid systems coupled
with energy storage systems is going to be
the next big thing in the solar systems space.
The off grid systems will play a very
important role in achieving the 175 GW
target by 2022 as this increases the reach for
solar system installations even to areas where
no other source of energy is either possible
as of now or will need massive infrastructure
spending. Off grid system provide a much
easier and cost effective way to tackle that
and also contributes to the government’s
mission of “24X7 POWER FOR ALL”.
Of 100 GW Solar target, 40 GW
is to come from solar rooftop
projects. Do you think ‘rent a
rooftop’ policy can help India
achieve the target?
The target of 40 GW is very ambitious
considering the present installed solar
rooftop capacity and will be challenging to
achieve considering the present scenario.
However, because of various government
initiatives, we are moving in that direction
quicker than anticipated.
Rent a rooftop policy is one of the steps
to achieve that target. The policy looks
attractive and will be a huge boost for the
solar rooftop sector. However, merely a
policy won’t guarantee the success of this
scheme. Proper implementation and strong
framework of bankable agreements are a
prerequisite to make this scheme a success.
Further, the government would also need to
align the regulatory requirements with the
rent a roof policy and some amendments
would be needed.
Insurance will be another critical factor
to be aligned with the requirements of
the industry for this initiative. Since, the
owner of premises and owner of power
plant could be different, the insurers would
need to consider the same and offer suitable
products to safeguard the risk of developers
or owners of such power projects.

Smart grid technology opens
up more opportunities
Digital technologies are set to make energy systems more connected, intelligent,
reliable and sustainable, says Anil Kadam, GM, Business Development, Solution
Architect, Schneider Electric in an interview with Sonali Chowdhury
Q
How are elements
such as IoT, artificial
intelligence, and
digitization changing the face of
the renewable energy sector?
Digitization with an access to internet has an
overwhelming impact on all aspects of our
life and businesses. In the past 20 years, the
Internet has connected 3.5 billion people. In
the next 10 years, this number will grow by
over 70 percent. Additionally, the internet
will connect 30 billion devices by 2020.
Digital technologies are set to make
energy systems worldwide more connected,
intelligent, efficient, reliable and sustainable.
The energy sector has been an early adopter
of digital technologies. Digitisation of
manual processes through smart grid is
one of the biggest drivers of growth in the
power sector. IoT, artificial intelligence,
data analytics and cloud capabilities are
particularly important elements for utilities
seeking to monitor and control equipment
across the network of assets and to manage
their grid environments. Through the
integration of renewable energy, smart
grid technology is making significant
contribution to overall grid operations.
Smart grid technology will open up more
opportunities because it will link renewable
Digitisation | RE
and conventional power generation to
reduce CO2 emission and footprint,
and enhance utilization through reliable
operation. However, in order to capture
more value from renewable resources, it is
essential to devise cost-effective methods for
new transmission or grid upgrades.
At Schneider Electric, we are committed to
sustainability in terms of energy efficiency and
management. Our idea is to drive sustainability
with performance. To achieve this, Schneider
Electric has developed innovative technologies
such as EcoStruxure Grid which enables cities
to be more efficient, liveable, and sustainable by
saving 30% of energy, thereby making end-to-
end integration a reality.
The company has won the
project of Naya Raipur
Development Authority (NRDA)
for the development of the first
green-field integrated smart
June 2018 | Energy Next | 45
 Digitisation | RE

city of Naya Raipur, the capital

of Chhattisgarh. Elaborate on
the developments.
We have signed the contract with Naya
Raipur Development Authority (NRDA)
for the development of the first green field
integrated smart city of Naya Raipur, the
capital of Chhattisgarh. In this project, we
will leverage the advancements in mobility,
sensing and analytics to make Naya Raipur
a true smart city. We are working in both
operation technology and enterprise layer
to convert in to digital solutions.
At Naya Raipur, we will be responsible
for executing the entire gamut of
integrated Command & Control Center
and its overall integration covering
transportation, surveillance, citizen
applications, end-to-end Smart Grid
solutions, end-to-end Water Management
system and integrated Building
Management System. This transformation
shall be supported by connected products
of more than 100,000 IO points, edge
control, applications, advance analytics,
and services. This state of art architecture
by Schneider Electric is open, scalable
and interoperable. As smart city project
rolls out, Naya Raipur would not only
encapsulate modern infrastructure but
also push the envelope of being an eco-
friendly city which will offer modern
amenities for residents and visitors.
Share Schneider India operations
in the renewable energy sector,
particularly solar? How is the
company contributing to India’s
solar ambition of achieving 100
GW by 2022?
The growth and acceptability of renewable
energy, primarily solar, over the last
couple of years has opened up a new
chapter in energy use with focus on
‘clean energy’. Schneider Electric India
is focusing on increasing its footprint
in the rapidly-expanding solar power
market. The company aims to increase its
share in the Indian solar power market
to 25 percent in the coming years. The
Company supplies inverters, transformers
and other medium-voltage equipment
enabling evacuation of power generated
from solar power projects.
Schneider Electric has developed
technologies which enable cities to
be efficient, and sustainable by saving
30percent of energy, and making end-
to-end integration a reality
India has a total installed capacity
of about 13,000 megawatts solar power
projects and Schneider Electric has supplied
equipment for 2,500 megawatts of projects
capturing an impressive share of around
20 percent. The fact that almost all states
leading solar power generation in India have
installed Schneider Electric equipments
reiterates the company’s commitment
towards contributing to India’s solar
ambition. The Company manufactures
this equipment at four different facilities
in India. Moreover, we are present
across locations with projects in Punjab,
Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh,
Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Maharashtra,
Odisha, Bihar, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh,
Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
You have a global presence in
sectors like energy, buildings,
IT, solar and infrastructure.
What are the key learnings
that can be replicated here,
especially when it comes to
India’s Smart Cities’ mission?
Each country that embarked upon the
journey of developing a smart city started
with addressing specific issues and
concerns towards attaining the common
goal of development. However, in the
present context Internet of Things (IoT)
is one of the underlining essentials for
smart cities across the globe because of
the increased connectedness it creates.
Around the globe, countries and cities
are exploring how technology can make
urban environments cleaner, healthier and
more pleasant in which to live. We know
that technology cannot resolve every city
challenge, nor should we expect it to do
so. Yet, if applied well, technology can help
solve pressing needs or meet aspirations,
sustainably delivering improved quality of
life, more prosperity and efficiency.
Developing smart cities involves creation
of smart systems and application of smart
solutions in various utilities like electric
grids, gas distribution systems, water
distribution systems, public and private
transportation systems, commercial
buildings, hospitals, homes etc. This
increases city’s efficiency, liveability, and
sustainability. Our expert solutions for
sustainable city development address today’s
most pressing pain points. We provide

46 | Energy Next | June 2018

solutions catering to facilities management,
water and wastewater, data centers,
substation automation, transportation and
alternate energy sources.
How can the Smart Grid aid
in integrating Renewable
Energy, and what solutions are
being offered in this context?
(EcoStruxure solution)
The role of smart grid technologies has
become all the more critical with increased
emphasis on solar energy to ensure stability
of power supply, tackle fluctuations and
allow smooth integration of conventional
and solar power generation. Focus on grid
planning is extremely imperative with
integration of solar energy. The presence
of Smart Grid helps to streamline the
distributed solar power generation using
rooftop solar arrays to feed electricity into
the grid during daylight in order to meet
the peak demand.
Digitisation is the key to improving the
operational efficiency of power discoms
in the new world of energy. Based on the
open and inter-operable EcoStruxure™
system architecture, EcoStruxure Grid
enables distribution utilities to make the
most of the new opportunities created
by utility digitisation. The EcoStruxure
Grid is designed to provide an integrated
framework for utilities to tackle the
increasing complexity of grid operations
and to optimise asset management. IoT aims
to enhance utilities’ operations by enabling
mobility, sensing, Cloud, analytics and
cybersecurity capabilities, and by allowing
them to manage collected, aggregated,
cleaned and enriched data to create value.
This means companies will be able
to achieve improved efficiency and cost
outcomes. Data will be accessible in
real time, enabling the ability to resolve
critical issues and increasing customer
satisfaction by proactively managing
issues arising across the Grid. This is
part of the effort to contribute towards
the Government’s mission of achieving
uninterrupted power supply by plugging
leakages and, thereby, ensuring savings.
There are tremendous
opportunities in smart cities,
Each country that embarked upon
the journey of developing a smart
city started with addressing specific
issues and concerns towards attaining
the common goal of development
smart networks, smart grids
and smart meters in India.
What are the bottlenecks
and how can the government
address these issues?
With a mission to develop over 100 Smart
Cities across the country, the Government of
India has been putting in a lot of emphasis
on smart city projects along with other
initiatives such as Make in India, digitisation,
skill development and the like. Unlike
conventional cities that could evolve over
the years, a Smart City is built by creating
an ecosystem that is efficient, liveable and
sustainable. While smart cities, smart
grids, smart networks offers tremendous
opportunities in India, there are various
bottlenecks in the development of Smart
Cities such as ageing infrastructure, power
supply , providing clearances in a timely
manner, human resource etc that needs to be
addressed as well.
Overhauling outdated infrastructure is
one of the biggest challenges because of
persistent red tape and complex eligibility
requirements in offering solutions to
address these issues. Even after approval,
implementation remains a weak link.
Stringent economic considerations can
also impact the realisation of national
objectives such as 24x7 Power for All. In
meeting its power targets, the Government
has been prioritising cheap power – be
it via conventional or nonconventional
means. As pricing plays a pivotal role in
winning contracts, overly-affordable solar
products from China are making it difficult
for Indian manufacturers to sustain
themselves. Delayed approvals are another
big impediment. Delays in acquiring
sites, obtaining necessary approvals and
equipment shortages are some of the
biggest bottlenecks in various projects.
Finding the requisite human
resources is another major challenge.
The Government can address the talent
shortage by utilising the help of private
players. For example, Schneider Electric
is in the process of setting up multiple
training centres across 500 districts in
India under the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal
Vikas Yojana. The Company is also
opening a Centre of Excellence focussing
on the power, solar and automation
sectors. Schneider Electric will support
100 Basic Electricians labs to deal with
the dearth of skilled professionals like
electricians in the power sector.
June 2018 | Energy Next | 47
 Start-ups
RE beckons Indian start-ups
With RE becoming one of the fastest growing sectors in India, start-
ups have a wider role to play in the ecosystem, writes Shantanu Singh
Chauhan, co-founder, Startup Arena
I
ndia has 1.3 billion people and that makes
India world 3rd largest consumer of
electricity. India as a responsible partner
48 | Energy Next | June 2018
in fighting climate change has decided to
forgo its uses of vast coal reserve and focus
on renewable energy as the primary source of
energy. Renewable energy currently accounts
for 18.37 percent for total installed capacity of
60.98 GW capacity. By 2027 India intend to
have 57 percent of all its energy requirement
met through renewable sources only.
With a target of 175GW by 2020, India
is running one of the largest and most
ambitious renewable capacity expansion
programmes in the world.
ll Startups and Renewable
Energy
India is seen as second most attractive
country to invest in renewable energy.
Startup in this sector has mop up several
mega deals worth $100 million. According
to Mercom Capital Group, India has raise
around $10Billion in 2017 in Solar energy
sector. VC and PE, who invest in innovative
model rather than infra, has invested $800
million in India. This investment accounts
for 50 percent of total of global investment in
renewable energy.
ll Challenges and
opportunity
Solar energy is land intensive – an estimated

4-5 acre are required to produce 1 MW of
solar power - and the government’s attempts
to pass a land acquisition bill have got caught
up in a political deadlock. Even if large
tracts of land are made available to investors
to produce solar power, the lack of grid
infrastructure will be a hindrance.
The other issue with renewal energy like
solar & wind is storage. However, with cost
of 1KWhenergy storage through Li Battery
has fallen to $245, distribution and transfer
of energy has become cheap and viable.
Energy generation through Solar & Wind
has reached new low of 2.43 Rs/KWh as
compared to 3.25 for traditional energy
generation.
Niti Ayog has decided by 2030 all cars
running in India shall be EV. These all
cumulates to greatest opportunity for
Startups to enter renewable energy sector.
With fantastic growth, and government
push, unit economy improving every day,
renewable energy sector has become one
of the fastest growing sectors in India.
Startup can participate in the ecosystem as
a manufacturer (ex. Orb Energy, Nuevosol
Energy), infra player (OstroEnergy, Renew
Energy) or service provider (IndiaGoSolar,
Sun Mobility).
All of these categories are integral part
of India’ successful renewable energy story.
Being part of it, not only get you government
support, great investment opportunity, but
also help you to do something for saving
mother earth.
ll Practices for start-ups
investing in energy sector
India has the potential to become the world’s
leading solar markets as its location near the
equator and low solar park construction costs
coupled with plunging costs of solar energy
in recent times which are all aligning with
India’s ambitions. With the right investments
in such green technologies, India is well
positioned to achieve all this. Due to India’s
burgeoning electricity demand and the
persistent supply demand gap along with the
summer shortages and outages, it is quite
significant for the investors to invest in the
sector. The pursuit towards cleaner energy
sources will have a crucial role in enabling
the country’s transition to a fully sustainable
energy system.India, today is among the
Niti Ayog has decided by 2030 all cars
running in India shall be EV. These all
cumulates to greatest opportunity for
Startups to enter RE sector
world’s top five largest energy consumers
and is projected to become the third-biggest,
after China and the United States, in the next
decade-and-a-half.
But the country faces an acute scarcity in
the sector. Thousands of villages are still unlit,
supply is rationed in towns and blackouts
are common even in the biggest cities. The
hope is that solar energy output can serve
the country’s remote regions where even two
hours of power supply can change lives.
ll Challenges for
investors:
Although energy sector dynamics and the
speed of technological developments are
something a modern state or business can
hardly control, managing non-commercial
risks becomes the key in enhancing the
predictability of the investment in the
industry and to secure the necessary
investments in the sector to meet future
demand and economic growth.
Given the cost of money in India and
Indian banks’ over exposure to the sector,
foreign capital will help greatly. Even if
large tracts of land are made available to
investors to produce solar power, the lack
of grid infrastructure is a hindrance. The
government will have to focus on building up
the grid to support the level of solar capacity
addition that is being planned.
Solar energy is land intensive – an
RE
estimated 4-5 acres are required to produce
1 MW of solar power - and the government’s
attempts to pass a land acquisition bill have
got caught up in a political deadlock. Even
if large tracts of land are made available to
investors to produce solar power, the lack of
grid infrastructure will be a hindrance. The
government will have to focus on building up
the grid to support the level of solar capacity
addition that is being planned.
ll Future of Renewable
Energy:
This fact is not hidden from anyone that
India is the world’s fourth-largest carbon
emitter with its population of 1.3 billion
people with power sector contributing
majorly to the same. But in the recent
years, India has made significant strides in
the renewable energy space. The Climate
Change concern across the globe has further
propelled the government and decision
makers to develop a detailed blue print for
clean and sustainable power for all.
India’s solar energy market represents a
robust opportunity for foreign investors,
given that China’s market has proved
impenetrable. China adds 14-15 GW a year,
and this capacity is mostly built by domestic
firms and joint ventures. With the aggressive
capacity addition that the government has
outlined, India is the next destination for
global players in the Energy Sector.
June 2018 | Energy Next | 49
 States | Regulator

States are upbeat on energy

revolution in India
Integrating RE with conventional energy is one of the important areas of
concern for most states, reports Sonali Chowdhury

I
n India, about 18 percent (around 3.5
crore) households don’t have access Maintaining the stability with
to electricity so energy revolution can
bring development to people lacking access
intermittent power is crucial for
to power. The energy revolution in the the grid besides spinning reserves,
energy sector is being compared to that
of the telecom sector. Member of Punjab ancillary services and host of flexible
Electricity commission Anjali Chandra
believes the revolution in the energy sector
generation to allow this integration
through renewable energy will be possible 700 MW, while it is projected at 5,500 2016-17 either by purchasing the power or
with the falling prices of batteries and MW in 2018-19. In fact the number of buying RECs and likely to meet the target
storage kicking in. “There may be a time consumers have also increased 7-8 fold to in 2018,” insisted RK Chaudhry, Member,
when there will be no need of a national reach 1.3 crore in the state. Bihar Electricity Regulatory Commission.
grid and this revolution makes for an However, there has been an Another suggestion was to create an
interesting future,” she added. improvement in the state on various online consumer grievance redressal system
Regulators feel there is surplus power aspects because of the flagship programmes so that complaints can be tracked centrally
with states, but integrating RE with implemented by the Central government. and grievances can be addressed better.
conventional energy in most states is one of “Most of the northern and eastern states The forecast of demand and supply has
the important areas of concern. Maintaining are unable to meet the RPO obligations to be scientifically done and people in the
the stability with intermittent power because of the capacity utilisation factor remote areas have become aware of power
is crucial for the grid besides spinning and land availability shortage. Bihar being quality such as the frequency, voltage
reserves, ancillary services and host of a land-locked state and agricultural state, level so those issues need to be addressed,
flexible generation to allow this integration. people don’t want to part with land, hence added Chaudhry.
“Microgrid, standalone system, battery the land cost is high and power produced Experts feel that entrepreneurs in the
storage system, rooftop solar would in the state is costly compared to other sector have to think of an innovative
mitigate the problems to some extent, but states. This unbalanced has to be looked business model to match the new cost
integrating the RE in case of large projects into so that the targets are met. But the rather than just expecting for costs to
will be the focus area for regulators,” state has been able to meet its target up to come down.
added Chandra.
On RPO targets, Odisha, which has a
single buyer model Gridco is trying to
meet its targets along with its backlogs.
“It is necessary to create an
environment of assurance for investors
to enable recover cost. There is a need to
remove disparity on cross-subsidization
considering the social economic domain
of the country,” said AK Das, member,
Odisha Electricity Commission.
In the distribution sector, the aggregate
technical and commercial losses is
regularly monitored and it currently
stands at 25 percent at national level in
Bihar. The state’s peak load in 2011 was

50 | Energy Next | June 2018


Ethanol Blending
Programme makes
sense in India
With petrol prices all-time high, India needs to push its ethanol blending
programme to cut prices and air pollution, writes BK Jha
I
n the country, petrol and diesel prices
are skyrocketing and there seems no
relief in short term for the consumers
as crude oil prices are expected to remain
high while rupee is slated to weaken further
against the dollar. In a scenario where more
than 95 percent of our transportation fuel
is being met with fossil fuels and over 80
percent of the country’s crude requirement
is met through imports, it is imperative to
explore alternate, renewable energy sources
and create a favourable environment for
their utilization. Biofuels offers a sustainable
energy option and there is an urgent need
to leverage its benefits to push the India
economy forward.
ll Energy Consumption &
Imports
India is the third-largest consumer of crude
oil in the world. Consumption needs are met
mainly through imports. India’s concern has
also been flagged by International Energy
Agency (IEA) as it has projected that the
country’s crude oil demand growth rate will be
the highest by 2040.
Cumulatively, gross petroleum import bill
increased 19 percent to $52.3 billion in the first
seven months of 2017-18 as compared to the
corresponding period last year on the back
of increased international crude oil prices. It
increased up to $90 billion by March 2018 – a
29 percent increase over last fiscal. According
to estimates of the Petroleum and Natural Gas
Ministry, in the current fiscal, import bill is
expected to go up by 20 percent and cross $105
billion assuming average crude oil price for the
Indian basket at $65 per barrel. Since the price
for Indian basket has crossed $68 per barrel, it
is not difficult to estimate where the country
is heading in terms of imports bill. Hence,
there will be pressure on economy as Current
Account Deficit is expected to be 2.4 percent or
even more. The swelling oil bill could further
biofuel | sustainability
impact the already widening trade deficit and
push up inflation.
It is well understood that successful
implementation of the government’s Ethanol
Blending Programme (EBP) would provide a
sustainable energy option to the country and it
will also result in considerable foreign exchange
savings. India could reduce its import bill by up
to nearly 40 billion rupees (USD 61.5 billion)
by 2021-22 when adequate ethanol blending (E
10) is factored in.
One of the primary focus areas of India’s
biofuels policy is on foreign exchange savings
through reduction of crude imports. Currently,
on the international market, ethanol is
significantly cheaper, not only than crude, but
also imported benzene, toluene, and xylene
(BTX) which are used to boost the octane rating
of fuel. By substituting the import of BTX with
ethanol which is $0.33/litre cheaper, India has
the potential to save even more foreign exchange.
Potential of foreign exchange saving with
ethanol blending can be gauged with the fact
that with only 3.5 percent during 2015-16,
India saved around $353 million. In 2016, the
government had fixed the target of blending
10 percent ethanol, however, later shifted
June 2018 | Energy Next | 51
 biofuel | sustainability
the target to 2022.The blend was, however,
only 2.07 percent in 2016-17 and 3.5 percent
during 2015-16.
ll Ethanol Blending
Current Scenario
In India, present level of ethanol blending in
petrol is at a level of 2.5 percent. Oil Marketing
Companies (OMCs) are implementing
EBP under which they can sell petrol with
the percentage of ethanol up to 10 percent.
According to MoP&NG, the OMCs have
contracted 1,250 million litres of ethanol in
2017-18 which will raise ethanol blending
percentage in petrol to 4 percent from 2.1
percent earlier. The oil firms procured 44 million
litres of bio-diesel in 2017-2018 as compared to
11 million litres in 2015-2016. For the 2017-18
supply year, over 1,395 million litres of ethanol
has been assured. This will help India to achieve
4 percent blending. This is highest ever ethanol
procured for blending in petrol.
It is promising to note that the government
has considered biofuels as the best option to
deal with the situation and recently announced
National Policy on Biofuels 2018 to provide
momentum to its Ethanol Blending Programme
(EBP) with a broader aim to create a robust
biofuel economy. Further, ethanol hopes
to strengthen India’s stance on the energy
commitments it has made at the global level as a
proactive engager on climate change.
ll Importing Raw Ethanol
Importing cheaper raw ethanol to meet shortfall
of availability through domestic means can be
considered as one of the options for sustainable
supply to keep blending at targeted rate.
Parliamentary Panel on Oil Ministry, in its 23rd
Report, has also flagged the issue and asked the
government to make ‘all efforts’ to push ethanol
blending programme in the country.
Importing ethanol from the international
market will not only lead to reduction in
import bills as imported ethanol is cheap,
but will also help India deal with its rising
pollution problem. National Policy on Biofuels
2018 focuses on advanced biofuels and has
undermined the role of cheap imported
ethanol that can be supplied to OMCs in a
sustainable manner. The policy seems to have
overestimated the importance of 2G ethanol
and other advanced biofuels and undermines
the most critical issue that is- shortfall in
52 | Energy Next | June 2018
ethanol supply. It is important for India to put
in place mechanisms to meet this shortfall
supply, and imports of ethanol can help with
this in the short-run.
ll Unrealistic Targets
In 2009, India put together a programme for
biofuel and the industry found that the target
set was unrealistic. The National Biofuel Policy
was announced, which mandated a phased
implementation of ethanol blending in petrol in
various states. The blending level of bioethanol
at 5percent with petrol was made mandatory
from October 2008, and the Policy set out
an indicative target of 20 percent blending of
biofuels, both for bio-diesel and bioethanol, by
2017. It was certainly an unrealistic target.
The major source for production of
bio-ethanol in India is from molasses, a by-
product of sugarcane. The availability is hence
dependant on the cane and sugar production
that are cyclical in nature. Ethanol has many
other alternative uses such as potable alcohol
and use in chemical and pharmaceutical
industry. Hence its use as a fuel faces stiff
competition from such uses.
It was known from the very beginning that
the targets would not be achieved as India
could not put in place a realistic programme to
achieve that. With realistic policy framework
and promotional schemes USA, Canada and
Brazil by and large achieved the set targets, but
India could not.
ll The Way Forward
Unlike Brazil, where sugar firms produce
ethanol directly from cane juice, Indian millers
use molasses, a by-product of sugar-making,
to produce the chemical, so a rise in sugar
production will also boost ethanol output. There
is also a need to look at all other options for a
sustainable supply of ethanol to OMCs.
The government’s new biofuel policy aims to
increase production of bio-ethanol -- from ligno-
cellulosic biomass as against the conventional
approach of molasses based ethanol production
-- for EBP which aims at 20 percent ethanol
blending in petrol by 2030. However, journey so
far suggests to adopt rational policy to meet the
targets. For example, with heavy investments for
2G plants in 11 states, the OMCs plan to address
supply challenges. Even the government, at
public platform admitted that the EBP is slower
than what the government is expecting and
urged to the stakeholders to take it forward a bit
faster. In the last two years not much progress
has been made.
It is expected that with holistic and rational
policies, India would be able to achieve
10percent Ethanol blending by 2022. The present
policy focuses on domestic production and
avoids imports which can add sustainability of
ethanol.
Over all a robust ethanol ecosystem makes
great sense for India for energy security and
socio-economic benefits. A robust ecosystem
would help reduce India’s oil dependence. It
would also help in realising Prime Minister
Narendra Modi’s call for reducing oil import by
10 percent in the next four years.
The author is a senior Journalist and Columnist
(Views expressed are personal)
 Energy Efficiency | Green Buildings
‘Energy efficiency in
green buildings can
be achieved
by optimal
utilization of RE’
Synergy is required among architects, developers and govt agencies to
design and deliver green buildings, says Sanjay Seth, CEO, Griha Council
in an interview with Sonali Chowdhury
operating expenses. Elaborate on
advantages of adopting to green
buildings?
Resource efficiency is sustainable usage
of earth’s limited resources with minimal
impact on the environment. It is one of the
key elements of sustainable development.
Persuasive drivers of green building are usage
of fewer natural resources, cost reduction,
better waste management, and energy
savings. Any habitat operates in three major
stages – design & construction, operation and
maintenance. ‘Griha’ as India’s national rating
Q
Green buildings are system, integrates ‘Operation & Maintenance’
supposed to be resource as a mandatory criterion in its rating. It
efficient and low on encourages high performance measures which
can be incorporated in the buildings and yield
enormous savings during a buildings life cycle.
A green building promotes a healthy
environment for all the individuals involved.
Additionally, once a green building is designed,
it operates in an economical way as it ensures
efficient use of energy and water as well as emits
less Carbon Dioxide (CO2). Furthermore, it
generates less waste during construction and
enables source segregation of waste; thus,
resulting in less burden on the landfills. Green
buildings are also known as ‘sustainable or high-
performance buildings’ with the key benefits
such as protection and preservation of natural
resources, reduction of water use, enhanced
air and water quality, energy efficiency, use
June 2018 | Energy Next | 53
 Energy Efficiency
of sustainable building materials, and low
operation and maintenance cost.
Griha stresses on the passive solar techniques
for optimizing visual and thermal comfort
indoors and encourages the use of refrigeration-
based and energy-demanding air conditioning
systems only in cases of extreme thermal
discomfort. GRIHA, dedicated in pursuit of
creating sustainable habitat and check adverse
effect on environment, consistently works on
improvement and evolution to stay in sync with
the changing industry standards.
What are the things considered for
constructing a green building or
resource-efficient building?
Green buildings are becoming main stream
with time. A green building needs to focus on
the elements such as site planning, management
of construction activities, energy efficiency,
occupant comfort and well-being, water
efficiency, sustainable building materials,
solid waste management and socio-economic
strategies. Site planning is the preliminary stage
which majorly focuses on the location of the
site, implementation of passive design strategies,
design to mitigate urban heat island effect and
site imperviousness. Once the construction is
initiated, construction management comes into
the picture which encompasses air and water
pollution control, preservation and protection of
existing trees and management of construction
activities.
Energy efficiency is a critical element of
green buildings which can be achieved by use
of efficient equipment and optimal utilization
of renewable energy. The thermal, visual and
acoustic comfort of occupants is paramount
to any project which must be an integral
component of the design. Water efficiency
is promoted by the use of low flow fixtures,
water efficient landscape, enhancing water
quality, treatment of waste water and recharge
of rainwater. Furthermore, building materials
constitute a large amount of energy which can
be reduced by the use of recycled content, BIS
approved industrial waste, use of lighter and
locally available materials.
Segregation of waste and treatment of
organic waste can lead to better solid waste
management. Additionally, the socio-economic
strategies focus on labour health and safety,
provision of crèche facility and design for
universal accessibility. GRIHA has been
54 | Energy Next | June 2018
Currently, solar installation on
Government buildings (across 52
projects) stands as the largest share of
our rooftop projects
developed encompassing all aforementioned
sections to make any building green or resource
efficient systematically.
Share initiatives of the Griha
Council to support the promotion
of green buildings? How do you
evaluate buildings for GRIHA
ratings?
Griha council has been actively involved in
propagating sustainability in the country. The
“Griha Summit” is the flagship event organised
by the GRIHA Council every year in association
with all stakeholders in the construction
industry to discuss and deliberate on promoting
the cause of green habitat in India. This year,
the 10th Griha summit will be co-hosted by the
University of South Wales (UNSW), Australia
and Griha council.
Additionally, Griha emphasizes the
development of a cadre of green building
professionals through different capacity building
programs, webinars, and conferences etc.
which help in spreading awareness on green.
We have been working extensively with Centre
& State government bodies to build their
internal capacities by training their employees.
This shall help in faster dissemination of the
technical know-how of green buildings. PWD,
Maharashtra has recently tied up with the
GRIHA Council in a unique manner, which
when implemented will be model for adoption
by other states as well.
Griha council conducts orientation
workshops and site visits during its certification
of buildings where the clients are educated
about sustainable habitats and are encouraged
for better performance. We have our own online
product catalogue which has been developed to
provide all the necessary information on green
building products for designers and clients. As
a point-based rating system, projects are guided
to achieve sustainable design and at the same
time evaluate the resource efficiency of a project.
It is a performance-based system where points
are earned for meeting the intent of the criteria
(true for all the GRIHA variants). Based on the
principle of ‘what gets measured gets managed’,
GRIHA measures a building’s environmental
performance on a scale of 1-5 stars. Site visits
are an integral part of the rating process which
ensure implementation of strategies.
The Griha Rating variants so far have catered
to the new and existing buildings to make
them more resource efficient by minimizing
the wastage of resources. Recently, Griha has
launched the rating for affordable housing
which will focus on integrating sustainability in
the constructions proposed under the Pradhan
Mantri Awas Yojana and push the boundaries
of green building movement in the country.
Developing a green rating for affordable
housing is a challenge considering that green
buildings are commonly perceived to be more
expensive. Griha for Affordable Housing strives
to demystify this myth of perceived cost and
hence the rating is tailor made to incorporate
cost-effective sustainability measures.
Did government launch any

specific schemes to promote
home owners or developers adopt
green buildings?
Griha is mandatory for new buildings/
campuses being constructed by central
government organizations and PSUs since
2009 and following the same, various states
have adopted it. Most of the government
buildings in Gujarat, Bihar, Odisha, Noida,
Greater Noida, West Bengal, Ahmedabad,
PCMC, Punjab, Kerala and PWD Maharashtra
are implementing GRIHA in their building
projects. Government of Sikkim was first to
mandate a minimum of 3-star Griha rating
for all the government and semi-government
buildings in the state. Additionally, GRIHA
has been recognised as India’s own green
building rating system in INDC submitted to
UNFCCC in 2015. It was also acknowledged
in Diffused Leadership in the Paris
Agreement: COP23 India story. Griha-rated
projects get benefits such as: additional FAR,
discounted development premium, fast-track
environmental clearance, house tax rebate, and
concessional rate of interest for loans, depending
on their respective junction; which encourages
the house owners, developers to go for rating.
What are the biggest challenges
when it comes to the adoption to
energy efficient buildings in India?
Energy efficiency is often misinterpreted with
installation of expensive equipment, high
end technologies etc. Although there has
been substantial progress in the field of green
buildings, there is still a lot to be done. The gap
will exist until the user, the last link in the chain,
does not demand “green”. Synergy is required
amongst the architects, the real estate developers
and the government agencies to design and
deliver green buildings. Making a building
energy efficient is still perceived to be expensive
by the end users as the payback period and the
energy savings in the due course of time is not
considered upfront. We have been working
towards creating a seamless environment step by
step. The Griha rating for Affordable Housing is
a step towards demystifying the myth that green
buildings are costly.
How are green buildings assuming
significance in India? Could you
share the progress in terms of
adoption to green buildings?
The demand of certifications has significantly
increased in the states and municipalities where
incentives are being provided to the developers
for green construction. Announcement of
additional FAR incentive for Griha Rated
projects in Haryana is the most recent
example. As per our statistics, Griha footprint
in terms of area has been very significant i.e.
55 million sq.m. with approximately 1200
registered projects. The hundred smart cities
program is another growth driver for this
sector, as at least 80 percent buildings should
be energy efficient and green as per the
essential features of the SCP. This is going to
generate interest in the developer community
to make all their upcoming projects green.
The manufacturing industry is also poised to
tap the increased demand of environmentally
friendly products necessary to implement
green buildings. Mandatory green building
policies of the government are pushing the
market for compliance with the minimum
performance benchmark while at the same
time; the voluntary market driven mechanisms
Green Buildings
such as the rating systems are encouraging the
adoption of sustainable technologies beyond the
mandatory requirement.
We predict a phenomenal increase in the
number of green building in the country if
the demand of greener construction rises
exponentially; which depends on the end user.
The policies, guidelines already exist in line with
the shift happening globally. Hence, Griha has
tried to bridge the gap by its affordable housing
rating which will integrate sustainability in the
gigantic target of “housing for all” set by the
Government of India. The rating is targeted
to affect the green building movement on
grassroots level by making energy efficient
houses with better occupant comfort accessible
to the economically weaker section of the society.
How green buildings will get an
impetus under the Smart Cities
mission? How are you promoting
the concept in tier 2& 3 towns
where technological and material
issues exist?
Since at least 80 percent of the buildings are
proposed to be green in the proposed smart
cities, it will certainly add to the momentum.
Teri recently signed a MoU with the Andhra
Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority
(APCRDA) and the Andhra Pradesh State
Energy Efficiency Development Corporation
(APSEEDCO) for implementation of Green
Buildings and Sustainable Habitat at the
upcoming new capital township of Amaravati.
In the past, the green building movement
has been majorly concentrated in metropolitan
and Tier I cities only. However, Griha has been
working diligently towards capacity building and
awareness in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities as well. The
3 days training programs conducted by experts
as well as the one-day awareness programs
are stepping stones towards disseminating the
concepts of green buildings widely.
The technological and material development
has seen a significant growth in the recent
years with focus shifting to sustainability. Griha
showcases such developments in the annual
exhibition held along the side lines of the Griha
Summit and knowledge dissemination is also
an integral part of the programs done in 2 and
3 tier cities. Technical webinars are conducted
to enhance the outreach even in remote areas
or cities which hold huge resource efficiency
potential ready to be tapped.
June 2018 | Energy Next | 55
 green jobs
A fast developing industry
The rise in demand for solar energy would, subsequently, also result in an increase
in demand for skilled human resources to operate the associated technology, writes
Sarah Berry, advisor, Sehgal foundation
S
olar power in India is a fast
developing industry. The country’s
solar installed capacity reached
56 | Energy Next | June 2018
Solar power
20 GW in February 2018, expanding its
capacity almost 8 times between 2014
and 2018. This fact goes to prove the
importance of this form of renewable
energy, amongst others, for the country,
currently, and in the coming years. The
rise in demand for solar energy would,
subsequently, also result in an increase in
demand for skilled human resources to
operate the associated technology.
The National Institute of Solar
Energy (NISE) organizes the Suryamitra
Skill Development Programmes, in
collaboration with State Nodal Agencies,
at various locations across the country.
This 600-hours-residential-programme
is sponsored by the Ministry of New &
Renewable Energy, Government of India,
and witnesses training on installation,
operation & maintenance of solar projects/
plants in India. Here are the success stories
of some of the students, who carved-out a
career path for themselves in this domain
of renewable energy.
Building a ‘shining’
career…Babu Lal Dhakar’s
story…
Twenty-four year old Babu Lal Dhakar
is married, and supporting his wife and

child are his due responsibility. He had
always been a diligent student, but had
to drop-out, post the completion of his
diploma in Electrical Engineering due
to circumstances beyond his control. He
began appearing for interviews with the
hope of getting placed and being self-
sufficient. Lack of education qualification,
hands-on training & employability
skills hindered his chances of gainful
employment. Says Dhakar: “I was getting
frustrated with the passage of each day.
I then heard of a training programme
for Solar PV technicians being offered
under the Suryamitra Skill Development
Programmes sponsored by the Ministry
of New & Renewable Energy, Government
of India. I saw an opportunity here and
registered for the same. On clearing the
entry gate assessment, I was trained in
the respective domain skills, IT, English
and life skills.” Dhakar subsequently was
employed with Shri Veerabhadreshwara
Enterprises, for M/s. Juwi India Renewable
Energies Pvt. Ltd., which offered him
not only a good remuneration but also a
progressive work environment. He adds:
“With the Sector Skill council certificate,
I am now recognized as a trained
professional. I see myself as a manager in
a few years, and feel that, thereafter, there
will be no looking back.”
I can, and I will…Manish
Kumawat shares his
experience…
After completing his 12th, Manish
Kumawat completed his Diploma
Programme in Electrical Engineering.
On successful completion of his diploma,
he started to appear for interviews but
soon realized that there were thousands
of diploma holders like him, who were
in search of a job. For the jobs that were
available, he was either over-qualified
or under-skilled. “The Suryamitra Skill
Development Programme offered at the
IL&FS Institute of Skills (IIS), Bhilwara,
boasts of state-of-the-art labs and
quality training, completely in-tune with
the requirements of an ever-changing
industry. The simulations, in accordance
to the workplace, help trainees to easily
adapt to the work environment, post
placements,” says Kumawat. Working
currently with HR Footprint Talent
Solutions, for M/s Mundra Solar PV Ltd.,
is a very different experience for him.
He shares that though he was, initially,
nervous and unsure of his abilities for the
first few months, but soon, thereafter, he
began to cope with the demands of the job
and started doing well. He began learning
new things and putting all the training
acquired to good, practical use.
Learning by doing…Aneel’s
success story
Aneel belongs to a small village called
Arivemula in the state of Andhra Pradesh.
“My father, a farmer, was the sole
breadwinner of the family, and I watched
him tirelessly toil each day to make ends
meet. After completing my ITI, despite
family pressures to help my father in
farming, I started appearing for interviews,
but lack of confidence, knowledge, and
skills was a big hindrance. Being the
eldest son in a family of six members,
I knew that I had no time in hand to
experiment, nor did I have resources to
try my luck,” says Aneel. During a visit
to a nearby town, he met some local boys
who were working with large companies
in metropolitan cities and had done well
for themselves. They were well spoken and
could carry themselves with confidence.
He was inspired and decided to enrol in
a vocational skills programme, but was
taken aback by the fees being demanded
across various institutes. He soon heard
about a short-term course sponsored
under the Suryamitra Skill Development
solar
Programmes, immediately enrolled himself
for it, and worked very hard. “This training
gave me the opportunity to increase my
self-confidence by giving me hands-on
experience – something which is vital in
the professional world. I am currently
working with ABC, Chennai, earning
well now, and can support myself and my
family,” adds Aneel with a sense of pride.
Always more, always
better…Prabin Thanpati’s
‘motto’
Prabin Thanpati belongs to a poor family,
and hails from the village of Balangir.
He had seen a lot of strife and struggle,
and was determined to turn the situation
around. His father, a farmer, toiled each
day to support the family, and make ends
meet, but he was aging and needed help in
cultivation. Thanpati started working with
some big corporates as an electrician, but
was not satisfied and soon quit in search
of a better job. His friend, who was skilled
at IIS Rourkela, asked him to visit the
institute and explore training opportunities
being offered under the Suryamitra Skill
Development Programmes. Thanpati
enrolled in the Solar PV Technician
training programme, which included
training for domain, practical- and life
skills, and was placed with MSTPL,
Gujarat. “Skilling and upskilling both are
important for a profession. Ongoing up-
gradation of skills will ensure consistent
growth in my career. This is important for
me to not have better earnings, but also to
sustain my ambition to be better in my job
with each passing day. ”
June 2018 | Energy Next | 57
 ENVIRONMENT DAY

World Environment Day

raises awareness on issues
Financial systems remain a key driver for green transformation of economies

Philips Lighting illuminates North and South Block in green on the Occasion of World Environment Day . Philips Color Kinetics utilizes the
latest advancements in LED technology to create themes and customized light recipes that can be used for important national festivals and
celebrations. Additionally, the system also has dimming features that will enable the buildings to reduce electrical consumption during non-peak
hours. In all, approximately 662 light points have been implemented to create the stunning lighting effects.T he light points are controlled by the
advanced light management system, Philips Color Kinetics Light System Manager gen5, which can store multiple preset scenes, creating unique
light shows with varied effects like ripple, cross-fade, particle and burst. The lighting was installed by the Central Public Works Department
(CPWD), an attached organization of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India.

T
he global celebrations of World
Environment Day 2018, being
hosted by India, kicked off with a
total of three thematic sessions being held
at Vigyan Bhawan. Reflecting the “Beat
Plastic Pollution” theme of this year’s
World Environment Day, the inaugural
session focussed on the management of
plastic pollution. In his special address
on the occasion, Minister of State for
Environment, Forest and Climate Change,
Dr. Mahesh Sharma pointed out that
the need of the hour is to create a social
awareness, particularly among the youth,
on reducing the single use of plastic and
its reuse. He said that the menace of
plastic cannot be tackled till a win-win
situation is created for all the stakeholders
with regard to the use of plastic.
Emphasising the importance of Extended
Producer Responsibility in reducing the

58 | Energy Next | June 2018

 EVENT COVERAGE

use of plastic, the Minister gave a call to capital from diverse sources and infuse
rope in the organised sector to retrieve, the liquidity needed to spur economic
recycle and reuse plastic. activity that creates long-term, high-
Secretary, Ministry of Environment, quality assets—material, human and
Forest and Climate Change, C.K Mishra, technological.
highlighted the need to introspect on Helena Molin Valdes, Head of the
what can be done individually, as well as Secretariat, Climate and Clean Air Coalition,
collectively to reduce the use of plastic. UNEP, stated that the UNEP had developed a
He added that the need of the hour is to strong political will and assumed a leadership
launch a strong campaign to say no to the role in reducing polluting technologies,
single use of plastic. identified barriers to green financing for the
Addressing the gathering, European benefit of the poor and the green finance
Union (EU) Ambassador to India, developers. It had also taken the lead in
Mr. Tomasz Kozlowski praised India’s providing technical assistance for the buyers
leadership role on environmental issues. and financers of non-polluting technologies.
Highlighting the concept of “Plogging”, The government, she emphasised, needed
(combination of picking up plastic waste to provide an enabling environment to
and jogging) the EU Ambassador said encourage financial institutions to devise
Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal
that this concept is popular in several and establish financing mechanisms in the visiting Haryana Pavillion at Vigyan
European nations and can be used to green space. Bhawan in New Delhi on occasion of World
Environment Day.
reduce plastic pollution.
Naina Lal Kidwai, Past President, FICCI
& Chairman, Max Financial Services,
suggested that all funding mechanisms
should have the right environment
strictures to give a fillip to green financing
in the country.
Addressing the conference on
‘Galvanising Sustainable Finance for
India’s Development’, organised by
UNEP, FICCI and Climate Bonds
Initiative, Kidwai said that in the cities
there were just a handful of municipal
bonds and therefore there was a need
to build financing structures around
municipalities. It was also important to
see that funding raised by the State was
directed to green financing.
Financial systems remain a key
driver for green transformation of our
economies. By 2030, estimates show
that India will need to spend $2.3
trillion towards climate action. This
will not be possible, however, without
rapidly accelerating green finance flows
to priority sectors of her economy.
The convergence of economic and
environmental opportunities is more
than apparent and there is an increasing
acknowledgement this will be the source
of stable, sustainable and inclusive
growth, and finance will play a central
role in achieving this objective. It has
the potential to mobilise additional

June 2018 | Energy Next | 59

 icra

Lowest tariff in bids indicates

solar power has reached grid

The amendment in bidding norms offers clarity on pass through of import duty
and other such duty which is a positive for solar developers, writes Girishkumar
Kadam, Vice-President and Sector Head, Corporate Ratings, ICRA Ltd.
auctioned under NSM and the remaining
59 percent under various state solar
policies. The solar bid tariff levels have
fallen significantly over time due to a fall in
capital costs and with adoption of reverse
auction based competitive bidding by
the Central and State governments. This
coupled with a softening in the interest rate
cycle, availability of long-tenure debt and
aggressive bidding led by expectations of
a decline in solar module prices has led to
Rs. 5.0/kwh in CY2016. The lowest tariff
discovered in some of the recently held
bids indicates that solar power has reached
grid parity and, in fact, even gone beyond
it in a few cases.
The solar power tariffs discovered
under the state solar policies have
remained relatively higher compared to the
projects awarded by Central government,
due to higher counterparty credit risk
associated with state policy PPAs, coupled

A
s per ICRA, a total of 18.7 GW
of utility scale solar capacity was
auctioned between CY2013 and
CY2017 under the National Solar Mission
(NSM) and various state solar policies.
About 41 percent of the capacity was
a steep decline in the solar bid tariff level
in CY2017. The lowest solar bid tariff at
Rs. 2.44 per unit was discovered in the
bidding for projects awarded in the Bhadla
Solar Park, Rajasthan in May 2017. Also,
the weighted average solar bid tariff has
declined to Rs 3.0/kwh in CY2017 from
with the absence of policy measures such
as viability gap funding, bundling with
cheaper thermal power to improve tariff
competitiveness and payment security
fund. Further, a majority of the capacity
awarded under the state programmes
is outside solar parks. The solar park

60 | Energy Next | June 2018


programme has been received very well by
developers due to solar park developers
taking over key non-core activities such
as acquiring land and developing internal
transmission infrastructure, which could
be very challenging in the Indian context
The aforementioned concerns have been
addressed to some extent in the revised
bidding guidelines for solar power projects
notified in August 2017. The guidelines
require the procurers to provide a payment
security through revolving letter of credit
equivalent to one-month average billing
for the project and a payment security
fund, which shall be able to support
payment for at least three months of
receivables for the projects tied up. In
addition, the procurer may also choose to
provide state government guarantee in a
legally enforceable form, both in terms of
payment of energy charges and termination
compensation. The guidelines also provide
for compensation to solar power generators
in case of off-take constraints arising from
the delay in commissioning of transmission
infrastructure, grid unavailability and
grid back-down, which is favourable for
solar power generators. Further, a weak
termination clause without any mention
of the termination liability in most of the
PPAs does not provide any risk mitigation
to the developers in case it decides to
terminate the PPA over a procurer event
of default such as payment delays and grid
curtailment, which have been observed
in the past. In this context, the provisions
for termination liability, which, along with
substitution rights as approved in bidding
guideline is a positive development for the
investors.
However, the bidding activity for solar
power projects has slowed down in CY2017
with capacity auctioned at 4.5 GW against
7.3 GW in CY2016, due to factors such
as upward pressure on the PV module
prices since May 2017, GST rollout in June
2017 and uncertainty over the quantum
and timelines for the imposition of anti-
dumping duty/safeguard duty on solar PV
modules, given the adverse implications it
could have on tariff expectation and due to
the lack of clarity on pass-through of such
duty under the “change in law” clause.
There has been ongoing discussion for
imposition of import/safeguard duty on
solar PV modules to protect the domestic
equipment manufacturers. Despite the
impressive capacity addition witnessed
in the solar power sector, the condition
of domestic solar cell and module
manufacturers remains worrisome. This
is due to the high competition faced
by Indian manufacturers from foreign
suppliers, especially Chinese, on the
pricing front. The primary reason for the
same is the huge gulf between the scale
and technological capability of Indian
and Chinese manufacturers. Most Indian
manufacturers have sub-scale capacities,
high cost base and are completely reliant
on imported technology and raw materials.
Apart from this, Chinese producers
benefit from the cheaper electricity prices,
low interest loans, Government support
in acquiring land, capital subsidies, tax
breaks, etc, in their local market. As
a result, the market share of domestic
manufacturers is estimated to be in the low
double digits.
However, there is no clarity yet on the
quantum and timelines for imposition of
import/safeguard duty on the imported
PV modules. In January 2018, the
Directorate General of Safeguards (DGS)
had recommended a provisional safeguard
duty of 70 percent on imported solar cells
and panels and the final decision is still
pending. If a safeguard duty were to be
considered at 30 percent on an illustrative
basis, the impact on solar bid tariff of Rs.
3/unit is estimated to be significant, i.e. at
about 54 paisa per unit assuming that the
solar PV modules at the prevailing price
policy
level comprise about 60 percent of the
project cost. This, in turn, is reflective of
the trend that solar tariff bids would see
an upward movement as and when clarity
emerges on the safeguard duty front. Also,
the prospective applicability of such duty
remains critical for the projects which
have been recently awarded via the bidding
route, from the viability perspective of such
projects.
In this context, the Ministry of New &
Renewable Energy (MNRE) has amended
the bidding norms for solar projects vide
its circular dated April 3, wherein the
“change in law” provision now applies
to changes in taxation, duties and cess
instead of change in taxation alone as was
applicable in the bidding norms earlier
notified dated August 3, 2017. With this
amendment, there is now clarity on pass-
through of import duty and other such
duty under “change in law”, which is a
positive for the solar developers. However,
the quantification of actual tariff changes
by the central and state regulators and
the timeliness of the same will remain
critical from the cash flow perspective
of the affected developers. Moreover, the
retrospective applicability of such duty
under change in law remains critical for
projects, which have been recently awarded
in bidding route. While the solar bidding
activity has picked up in CY2018 with
more than 5,500 MW tendered in January
followed by 3,500 MW in February, the
uncertainty on the anti-dumping duty
and safeguard duty continue to cast a
shadow on the bidding for these tendered
capacities.
June 2018 | Energy Next | 61
 RE
‘India stands out among key job
markets in renewable sector’
Certificate courses can provide training to create a job-ready workforce
across the value chain, says Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, UBM India
in an interview with Sonali Chowdhury
Q
The recent report published
by the International
Renewable Energy Agency
(IREA) suggested that the green
energy sector has created an
estimated 1, 64, 000 jobs in India
in 2017. How has UBM India
been providing opportunities
to skilled technicians, working
professionals and new
entrepreneurs?
India stands out among key job markets in
the large renewable energy sector. With the
capacity additions in the solar industry, among
62 | Energy Next | June 2018
other sources of green energy, we see new job
opportunities developing in this industry. It
is estimated that jobs in the renewables sector
will grow to a total of 24 million in 2030 (as
suggested by the IREA report), as more countries
take steps to battle climate change. With its
RenewX and REI expos, UBM India has been
proactively supporting the government initiatives
and has helped to leverage them with different
engagements at these exhibitions. At RenewX
2018 that caters more to the South Indian
market, we introduced for the first time, the
Green Job Fair in association with Skill Council
for Green Jobs. The job fair saw the participation

of 27 companies with more than 600 openings.
About 362 interviews were conducted and
more than 200 students were shortlisted for the
final recruitment. We have similar plans for the
upcoming REI show on an even grander scale.
How are exhibitions leveraging
the growing renewable industry
in India?
India is one of the countries with the largest
production of energy from renewable sources.
As a matter of fact, it achieved a remarkable
milestone in 2017-18 with a renewable
generation of over one lakh gigawatt hours
(GWh) in a single year for the first time.
The exhibitions industry plays a very
significant role in creating a holistic community
in the RE space by congregating key stakeholders
from abroad and in India. For instance, UBM
India’s signature show Renewable Energy
India (REI) has over the years worked with
the objective of getting international brands to
its show to give Indian manufacturers much
more levy to network, develop the knowledge
landscape, engage in a balanced technology mix,
and conduct business, all of which potentially
leads to investments, and MOUs.
This year at REI for instance, we have the
privilege of collaborating with very reputed
international organizations in the domain on
an unprecedented scale. There is no doubt that
all these factors will help further accelerate
the growth and outreach of the sector and
contribute to the country’s sustainable economic
development.
Is there a current trend or pattern,
we see, to promote growth in the
industry?
Some of the key trends that we have observed
include:
Holistic view of Renewables: While Solar Energy
might be the strongest link in the Renewable
Energy chain in India because of its climate and
economy, the domain is increasingly being seen
as a holistic component with energy from wind,
hydropower and bio mass as well.
Energy storage: Energy stakeholders are
increasingly building up knowledge of energy
storage and the value of storage for a more
flexible and reliable grid system. For example,
solar batteries at homes can store excess solar
power for later use – at a time when the sun
isn’t shining. These batteries can also offer
short-term backup power if there is a power
outage in the area.
Waste to energy: Waste management is a
rising crisis in many Indian cities including most
significantly its capital New Delhi. Waste-to-
energy plants that would process the city’s waste
is seen as a viable solution for the future.
E-mobility: A rethink in the area of finite
energy supply has led to a focus on automobile
electrification and a lot of research and
development is going into it. E-mobility can be
viewed as a major step towards avoiding the
consequences of climate change in the future.
Digitalisation: Given the vast potential of
renewable energy, it has become important to
enable stakeholders to integrate and manage
the technical and financial performance of their
energy portfolios. The IoT (Internet of Things)
and Big Data analytics is the way forward and is
set to revolutionise the mechanism of this sector.
How getting certifications can be
beneficial for candidates looking
for opportunities in green sector?
According to a recently published report by
Employment
Skill Council for Green Jobs and Government
of India ‘Skill gap report for Solar, Wind, Small
Hydro sector’, it is estimated that over 6,70,000
number skilled manpower will be required
in the Solar PV sector alone. Besides, our RE
targets can only be met with the availability of
skilled manpower.
Currently, specific trainings for renewable
energy projects in universities, technical training
centres and vocational centres is limited. And
much of the training that the manpower receives
is essentially an on-the-job approach that could
result in wasted man hours as well as a lack of
standardisation across the industry. On the other
hand, certificate courses pertinent to different
job roles developed by experienced national
agencies such as the Skill Council for Green Jobs
(SCGJ) can provide customised training that will
create a completely job-ready workforce across
the value chain.
As sector is consolidating, how
do you think smaller companies
will grow?
The prospects of the renewable industry as well
as governmental initiatives have propelled the
rise of several smaller players in the industry
including those from Tier 2 and 3 towns. At the
same time, the industry is still going through a
consolidating phase, with some uncertainty on
tariffs and policies. It is clear than that key players
here will be defined on the basis of uncertainties
they can handle in this sector.
Apart from different incentives including
tax compulsions to promote smaller players,
one can expect mergers and acquisitions,
whereby small players either merge with other
players or exit out of the business at a fair
valuation of their assets. These mergers will
enhance the market with only serious and
organised players on board.
Trade exhibitions and expos enable
upcoming and smaller firms in a number of
ways. With the entire industry congregating
under one roof, smaller firms get to network
and exchange ideas with renowned thought
leaders and more experienced organizers.
Special pavilions for start-ups are organised
along with the presence of venture capital firms
to provide seed investments for captivating
ideas. Industry awards handpick, recognise and
reward organisations including fledgling ones
for innovations and excellence and help publicise
the work being done by the sector at large.
June 2018 | Energy Next | 63
 Corporate Buzz

JinkoSolar Reveals All- se Energy to develop

New 410W Cheetah Series Enpha t microinverter-
At SNEC 2018 its bigges r project in
based sola
Karnataka
JinkoSolar Holding Co.,
Ltd. showcased six of its
blockbuster products, inverter
Solar micro rgy Energies
leading the charge phase Ene rer Waaree
supplier En u fa c tu
towards a new wave of odule m a n lar project
and solar m d th e ir 4.5 MW so t
industry innovations and illustrat
Ltd. have a
nnoun c e The projec
ing the strength
H o sa p e t, Karnataka. e r- b a se d
of the company’s brand. At SNE
installation
in invert
C, JinkoSolar
rg e st E n p hase micro S p re a d
revealed its milestone JinkoSo
will be the
la e world.
lar 410W llation in th
Cheetah module that is reinven solar insta xpected to
ting the market cres, is e
it
standard for high performanc across 18 a 0 0 MW h o
f
e. In addition,
e ra te m o re than 7,5
JinkoSolar also showcased its gen
310 W bifacial r annually.
and introduced its gold framed solar powe
module.

Power Eastm
Hindujeas Kiran Energy energ an forefr
acquir 900-950 crore y stor onts
the E
for Rs lar Eastm
and a n Au
to
age solution V led
rgy So
Kiran Ene
a s been
L
imite
Pow
er s
Power h has e d (EAPL)
ed by Hinduja mba
acquir for on a rk
rporation one- ed
Power Co e o f kind of -a
rise valu in -
an enterp 0 ja bene itiative t
900- 9 5 ich Hindu fits o o sen
around Rs all- c ash deal in wh E nergy. of ba f e-r sitize
an of Kiran t ic
crore. It is % sh a res
t Banking The teries are kshaw o people a
l buy 100 Investmen
com best vera bout
Power wil a ina ble epic p
entre any has c suited fo and wha he
ll t
ties’ Su st re the sole
Yes Securi of Y e s B ank – we Energy. has a of th hose r this t kin
d
division –
part
on b e half of Kiran burg e n ve
e o n i i n i t i a t i v e We s t B e n h i c l e .
r the deal ng E
-R i c k a s t h e s g a l a s t h
advisers fo shaw tat e
popu e already
latio
n.

Okaya aims to clock Rs 1150

crores revenue in FY 18-19
Okaya Power Pvt.
Limited recently
announced
its ambitious
foray in Lithium
ion batteries segment. It has big plans to grab
majority of market share in Lithium ion batteries.
The company, with its turnover of Rs 720 crores
in FY 17-18, aims to clock Rs 1150 crores revenue
in FY 18-19. Okaya with its customised solutions
for Lithium ion battery requirements enjoys
dominant market share in solar power projects,
2-wheelers, E-rickshaw and UPS segment
already.
64 | Energy Next | June 2018
 Siemens Gamesa, Sembcorp
ins 200
to build 300 MW wind park SB Energy w via SECI
ts
Siemens Gamesa MW projec
won its biggest auction
order to date in
India, where a Renewable
t
temporary downturn had previously hit the energy join
ven tu re S B
group’s profits.The company said it had agreed s won
Energy ha n
with Sembcorp Energy India to build a 300
re 200 by state-ru
megawatt wind park. Along with the turbines, the enti ro je c ts a uctioned C I) in
MW of sola
rp ia (SE
tion of Ind nit
Siemens Gamesa will also provide operating
la r E n e rg y Corpora o f R s 2.82 per u
and maintenance services for the planned farm, So g a ta ri ff y
. Quotin ased SB E
nerg
to be located in Gujarat, which is planned to be Karnataka ti o n, Delhi-b the only
y ’s a u c n e rg y —
commissioned in April 2019. in Frida r R e n ewable E more
beat Tata
Po w e ght 1p a a is
e r— w h ic h had sou
other bidd
per unit.

Halo
organizes to emnix Tec
Sungrow Indiahnical light bark inhnolog
roadshow tec Halo ing to sm ies
seminar Tech
nix
nolo
art
Sungrow L td. is g ies P
successfully laun all set to vt.
ch a
of Sm wide
organised r
prod art Light ange
its 7th Solar ucts ing
e. Sungrow, new . The
technical hotel, Bangalor e c
M er idie n grow r market ompany
seminar in Le unique Mobile th ra s and also
VE Product in reve t
demon strate d its LI
rstanding of St
ring nue e with a achieve plans to
ro om , fo r th e better unde w orki ng . to ga in ne
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n aim over
2
brea
ki
Show nology and its r t
inve rte r tech finan ner Rs 4 five yea o realize 0-22% Y nto
and Central India one of th
e cial y 40 c rs. T R s 10 oY
aims to make East r h
ern m ear and ore reve e compa 00 cror
The company ers in the w orld.
is ve n e
energy produc arke ry st ue in th ny aims
largest green ts. rong e
in No current
rth a
nd

o m pletes 3 e e rs new bond

Infra c cts pion
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annou ioning of 3 )h
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in Karn en access Jh am khand ere b the IM ngs
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June 2018 | Energy Next | 65

EVENTS

Jun CII Solar Edge
20 Pune
Solar energy has a huge
potential for power
Pune generation in Maharashtra.
There are 250-300 days of
clear sun with an available
average radiation of 4 to
6 kWh/ sq. metre over a
day. CII Solar Edge aims to
explore enormous potential
and demand of solar energy
in the western region of
India
Jun HydroVision Jul Solar Expo India
26-28 International 13-15
Solar Expo India is organized
by Essential Events & Trade
HydroVision International is
Fairs at Mhow, Indore, India.
the largest gathering of hydro
It provides the attendees
professionals worldwide. The
North Carolina, Mhow, with the opportunity to gain
event highlights perspectives
USA Indore information regarding various
on the role of hydropower and
aspects relating to the solar
helps participants develop a
sector.
vision to meet challenges and
ensure the future sustainability.

http://www.cii.in/Events.aspx http://www.hydroevent.com/index.html https://10times.com/solar-expo-india

Oct Aug Sep

Sep
India Exposition
18-20 Mart, Greater
Noida
Renewable Energy India
showcases products from solar,
wind, bio-mass/fuel, small
hydro, geothermal and energy
Pragati Maidan, efficiency sectors. Organised by
New Delhi UBM India, Renewable Energy
India Expo intends to accelerate
the growth of India’s Renewable
Energy sector and contribute
to the country’s sustainable
economic development.
World Renewable Global Summit
21-23 Energy 4-5 and Expo on
Technology Biomass and
Congress & Expo Bioenergy
World Renewable Energy 13th Global Summit and
Technology Congress & Expo on Biomass and
Expo focuses on electricity Bioenergy includes prompt
NDMC generation tools, energy Zurich, Switzerland keynote presentations, Oral
Convention Centre, security equipments, power talks, Poster presentations
New Delhi transmission machinery, and Exhibitions. It will
industrial equipments, research present the learning of
tools and safety instruments. how renewable energy
resource derived from the
carbonaceous waste of
various human and natural
activities.

http://www.renewableenergyindiaexpo.com/ http://wretc.in/ https://biomass.global-summit.com/

Sep Sep
Renewable Energy India Global Wind Summit
18-20 Expo 25-28
september 2018

India is on the ambitious path to implement it is the biggest and most important
the world’s largest Renewable energy expansion meeting of the wind industry
program. The expo has become a one stop worldwide. It combines the world’s
platform for International stakeholders to Hamburg leading wind industry expo
India Expo Centre, showcase their cutting edge products and
Greater Noida WindEnergy Hamburg with the global
unleash the immense power of technology and conference of WindEurope to create
innovation. a high-powered, unique platform for
business, networking and information
for the onshore and offshore wind
industry.

http://www.renewableenergyindiaexpo.com/ https://windeurope.org/summit2018/

66 | Energy Next | June 2018