Solar parks get off to a good start in India, but challenges remain
Large-scale solar parks will be key to India’s transition to clean and green energy. Such parks are already being built or planned in States like Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. However, there is still scope for forward-looking and well-aligned policies across States to make the most of this global phenomenon.
ReNew Power signs PPA for 400 MW round-the-clock supply
The Indian developer will build a 1,300 MW hybrid renewable energy capacity (900 MW wind plus 400 MW solar) supplemented with storage to ensure a round-the-clock supply. The project cost is estimated at approximately US$ 1.2 billion.
APTEL orders compensation for solar curtailment in Tamil Nadu
The Delhi-based Appellate Tribunal for Electricity (APTEL) has directed Tamil Nadu State Load Despatch Centre (TNSLDC) and The Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation (TANGEDCO) to compensate developers at 75% of PPA tariff per kWh on solar curtailment.
A closer look at liquid air energy storage
A British-Australian research team has assessed the potential of liquid air energy storage (LAES) for large scale application. The scientists estimate that these systems may currently be built at a cost between €300 and €600 per kilowatt-hour and that a positive business case could be favored by certain conditions, including a determined price structure in the energy market and the presence of a grid unable to support high levels of renewable energy penetration.
Foreign investors tapping into India’s solar market undeterred by untimely payments
Full ownership allowed in renewable energy projects and 25-year power purchase agreement are the major factors drawing foreign investors to India’s high-growth solar market. Major developers in India have solar portfolio distributed across States, which further minimizes the risk for investors.
Canada’s OMERS Infrastructure to buy 19.4% stake in Azure Power
The transaction expands Canadian pension plan’s investment in clean energy, consistent with its long-term strategy to increase footprint in this growing sector.
Amp Energy India raises US$ 100 million from Danish investor
Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners and Amp Energy have signed a US$200 million investment pact with each partner committing to $100 million. The investment will allow Amp Energy to add 1.7 GWp of utility-scale and commercial and industrial renewable energy projects.
Torrent Power acquires 50 MW solar assets from Lightsource BP
The PV plant is situated in the Solapur district of Maharashtra. It benefits from a 25-year power purchase agreement with Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited at a fixed tariff of INR4.43 per unit.
ACME Solar raises $334 million via offshore green bonds
The Indian developer has a cumulative 4.8 GWp solar portfolio, including 2.2 GWp operational and another 2.6 GWp under-construction projects. It will use the proceeds from the green bonds to finance twelve of its solar assets in India.
Sterling and Wilson Solar expands into hybrid energy plant, storage EPC
The Indian multinational, which has 11.4 GWp of solar EPC portfolio and 8.1 GWp operations and maintenance, aims to use its project management skills and strong stakeholder relationships to become a global leader in the future energy market.
