China power crisis hits Indian solar projects
After the ravages of Covid-19, electricity shortages in China have now raised costs for its solar manufacturers, with knock-on effects for developers in India too, again highlighting the dangers of relying on a single solar supply chain.
Investors bet big on renewables while solar takes on coal
Foreign direct investment’s role in bringing in finance, superior technology and other resources is undoubtedly a critical one. The Indian government has tried to create a conducive environment for enabling flow of foreign investments into the solar energy sector in the country, but the norms need to be eased further to really push the industry to its maximum growth potential.
The long read: Indonesia’s largest floating PV project – under the surface
The 145 MW Cirata floating PV project achieved financial close in August. The developers claim that the array, which covers 200 hectares of the water’s surface, is an example of transferring new technology that will pave the way for Indonesia’s solar industry and enable the setting of new policies.
Tata Power consolidated PAT up 36% in September quarter
The integrated power producer’s revenue from operations increased 18% to INR 9,810 crore from INR 8,290 crore in the same period last fiscal year.
Adani Green Energy’s operational capacity grew by 93% YoY to 5,410 MW
The renewable energy developer’s operational capacity increased to 5,410 MW (4,763 MW solar and 647 MW wind) as of September 30, 2021, a 93% growth from 2,800 MW in September last year. Much of this capacity addition during the year was through the acquisition of operational solar assets.
Innovative financing can help India achieve solar energy goals
Funding avenues available to solar developers range from green bonds and multilateral development bank loans to infrastructure investment trusts.
Module and shipping cost inflation could cost the world 50 GW of solar next year
The input costs of the two biggest contributors to solar plant development expense have gone through the roof since the world began to come out of Covid-19 lockdowns, to leave project developers with some difficult choices.
Reliance offers INR 375/share to raise 25.9% stake in Sterling and Wilson Solar
The new energy arm of Reliance Industries Limited has made an open offer to acquire 4,91,37,420 shares from Sterling and Wilson Solar’ public shareholders at a price of INR 375 per share.
India added 8.8 GW of solar in the first nine months of 2021
The solar capacity addition for the calendar year 2021 is expected to touch 14 GW (11 GW utility scale and 3 GW rooftop) if the third Covid wave does not strike between November and December.
Solar tariffs could rise to INR2.60/kWh in the next fiscal year
The recent increase in the goods and services tax applied to solar cells and modules, from 5% to 12%, coupled with a planned 40% customs duty on panel imports, is set to increase project costs for developers.
