Distributed solar

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi have developed solar towers that can be moved from one place to another and can generate 20-30% more power while requiring only 50-60% space compared to conventional mounting setups.

Bidders have until February 28 to lodge their interest in developing grid-connected, ground-mounted solar plants in sizes of 2-10 MW in various districts of Maharashtra. The ceiling tariff is fixed at INR 3.10/kWh.

With solar water pumps, farmers have access to high-quality power available for irrigation. These systems are portable and can be assembled at any preferred location. With the growing utilization of these systems, the costs have decreased substantially, making them an efficient, convenient, and cost-effective solution for grid-isolated rural areas. 

Bengaluru-based Mecwin Technologies Ltd and Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank (KVGB) have partnered to finance solar pump-sets for farmers. Adani has formed a new energy arm called Adani New Industries Limited (ANIL).

The core objective of renewable energy deployment in India is to promote economic growth, enhance energy security, increase energy access, and reduce climate change. Sustainable development is possible by the use of clean energy and by ensuring access to affordable and reliable energy for every citizen.

Microgrids that use on-site renewables such as rooftop solar can help relieve peak demand on the grid during afternoons, and later in the evenings through battery storage. This can help power distribution companies (discoms) avoid buying expensive power to meet peak demand.

Rajasthan (8,644 MW), Karnataka (7,483 MW), and Gujarat (6,052 MW) lead in solar installations.

Given 60% of India’s land area is farmed, agrivoltaics (pairing solar with farming) holds special promise for the nation to accelerate its transition to clean energy. However, the roll-out of agrivoltaics in India cannot proceed without addressing the various policy and regulatory challenges. 

The solar plants are to be installed in 2 MW to 10 (2×5) MW sizes for giving daytime power to agricultural consumers. Bidding closes on December 20.

The successful contractor will install the arrays in blocks of 2-10 MW and will carry out all stages of installation, from site surveys through to 12 years’ operation and maintenance.