Off-grid solar

A new report by CEEW states that India’s unconstrained RE potential exceeds 24 TW (terawatts), but not all of it is achievable. Even reaching the 7 TW required to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070 will require a holistic approach to addressing challenges such as land access, climate risks, land conflicts, and population density.

The solar industry is at a crossroads. While demand for PV installations is higher than ever, systemic overcapacity, falling prices, and financial losses across the supply chain threaten to undermine the industry’s long-term sustainability.

India is expected to install 16.5 GW of solar from utility-scale installations, 4 GW rooftop and another 1 GW from off grid component in 2024.

The choice between distributed and utility-scale solar often comes down to balancing these benefits based on the specific context, goals, and constraints of a project or region. In the Indian context, a balanced approach that leverages the strengths of both models is essential.

India’s 2024-25 budget reflects a strategic and holistic approach to the energy sector, emphasising sustainability, innovation, and energy security. By promoting pumped storage, advancing nuclear technology, transitioning to emission targets, and supporting renewable energy and energy efficiency, the budget lays a strong foundation for a sustainable and resilient energy future

India installed about 9.6 GW of utility-scale solar, 1.8 GW rooftop, and 688 MW off-grid capacity in the Jan.-June period of 2024, says a new report by JMK Research.

Shakti Pumps (India) has secured the contract to supply, install and commission 12,537 solar water pumps across Uttar Pradesh under Component-B of PM-KUSUM scheme (Phase-III).

JMK Research projects 21.2 GW of new solar capacity addition in FY 2025. This will comprise 16.5 GW of utility-scale, 4 GW rooftop, and 700 MW off-grid installations.

Scientists in Czechia have conducted a techno-economic analysis of a green hydrogen production system powered exclusively by photovoltaic and wind energy. The system uses surplus energy for water treatment and, according to its creator, can achieve a levelized cost of hydrogen of $3.12/kg.

The Global Off-Grid Lighting Association (GOGLA) says total investment in the off-grid solar sector stood at $425 million in 2023, down 43% year on year. It says the industry needs to address a lack of early-stage financing to meet development and climate targets.