The potential for grid-scale energy storage in India
A new study provides a first-of-its-kind assessment of grid-scale energy storage deployment in India both in the near term and the long term. The researchers conducted scenarios-based capacity expansion modeling to assess when, where and how much energy storage can be cost-effectively deployed in India through 2050. In all scenarios, energy storage was found to play a significant role in India’s power system.
Solar modules are being detained by US customs agents, reports suggest
An order issued in late June instructed US customs agents to detain solar shipments containing silica-based products sourced from a Chinese firm and its subsidiaries. Three solar players may already have been impacted.
Prime minister Narendra Modi announces National Hydrogen Mission
The prime minister said green hydrogen would play a significant role in achieving India’s decarbonization goals. He also announced the nation’s ambitions to become a global hub for green hydrogen production and export.
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.
Local solar will lead the energy transformation over the next five years
The adoption of local, community-based energy solutions like rooftop solar and batteries can help make the energy grid more flexible and reliable. Home solar and batteries will enable the growth of ‘prosumers’ who produce and share energy, as well as consume it.
Electric vehicles account for 1% of overall vehicles annually sold in India
The government provides subsidy support under the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid) and Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme and reduced taxation rates to promote EV uptake in India. Purchase of 3,61,000 EVs with incentives cumulating to about INR 600 crore has been supported to date under the FAME Scheme.
Revisiting the net metering cap for rooftop solar
The Ministry of Power has issued a draft amendment to Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020, which allows net metering for rooftop solar systems of loads up to 500 kW or up to the sanctioned load, whichever is lower and net billing (gross metering) or net feed-in for above 500 kW.
CEO survey shows renewable energy industry in upbeat mood
A survey conducted among top executives in the renewable energy industry elicited positive feedback on most fronts, including government policies, demand for renewable power as well as land.
Earth sciences ministry revisiting weather forecast approach to suit solar sector needs
The Ministry of Earth Sciences will strengthen meteorological forecasting activities in sync with the demands of the solar and wind energy sector stakeholders. It is already working on a five-year (2021-26) plan, said M. Rajeevan, Secretary, MoES, at a virtual workshop conducted recently.
No excuses, India must ramp up solar manufacturing to reduce reliance on imports
Through various initiatives and schemes, the Indian government has created a conducive environment for industry stakeholders to expand domestic manufacturing. The industry should seize the opportunity to ramp up capacity and manufacture emerging technologies such as monocrystalline (mono-Si), bifacial and half-cut cells, micro-inverters, and tracking equipment, all of which promise further solar efficiency gains over the coming years.
