Solar pumps

Scientists in India have tested a new inverter topology with a single-phase, induction-motor water pump. The seven-level inverter, with five power semiconductor switches, is said to be particularly efficient at reducing switching losses thanks to a pulse width modulation technique.

Bidding closes on February 10 for the solar systems that are to be set up on turnkey basis. Completion period is eight months from the award of contract.

Under KUSUM scheme, the state government will help farmers in setting up an aggregate 75 MW capacity of grid-connected solar plants—in capacities of up to 2 MW—on their barren or cultivable land.

An Indian Institute of Technology research team analyzed around 300 studies about PV panel waste containing carcinogenic metals. The researchers said solar module recycling is not economically profitable and policy support is necessary to avoid panels being dumped in landfill.

These systems—to be deployed in Aurangabad, Nashik and Pune—will have provision for mobile charging, transfer of automated meter reading and water discharge reading data.

The state will contract for a total 1.73 MWp of rooftop generation capacity with all the panels supplied manufactured in India.

State-owned module maker Central Electronics Limited will bid for distributed grid connected solar projects in Rajasthan DISCOMs, in tie-up with another party that will carry out the installation work using its panels in case of award of contract.

The selected bidders are required to install and commission solar-based water pumping systems in various villages and towns of Jaipur district. Bidding closes on November 5.