Monday, February 9, 2015

Replacing Diesel with Solar - Comprehensive Guide for Indian Businesses

A Comprehensive Guide for Indian Businesses

This e-book provides representative sample content to assist a reader in evaluating the Replacing Diesel with Solar Report Replacing Diesel with Solar – A Complete Guide to Installing Solar PV for Backup Power


Preface
With its economy growing at a fast clip, the Indian industry is in a time of unprecedented opportunities for growth. Along with this growth comes the need for higher energy consumption, as energy demand / consumption are highly correlated to economic growth.
Until recently, India’s energy demand has been met to a large extent by non-renewable resources, mainly coal and oil. Recently, natural gas has started playing an important role as well. But with the global concerns over climate change and the depleting nature of fossil fuels, not to mention the geopolitical risks attached with depending on foreign countries for these fuels, have made it imperative for the Indian industry to look at renewable sources of energy.
As a result of the nature of fossil fuels, their costs have been on the increase. Use of diesel in this regard should merit special mention, especially as a fuel for backup power for diesel gensets. While large factories and industrial set ups have their own captive power plants (usually powered by coal), tens of thousands of small and medium plants use diesel for a significant portion of their power needs. With the consequent increase in the cost of both grid power and that of diesel used as a fuel for backup power, businesses are looking for alternative and more sustainable sources for power production. It is well known that India has abundant sunlight that could support robust solar-based power production. Solar photovoltaic (PV) based power production could thus be an effective alternative. The Replacing Diesel with Solar PV report has been developed for those companies and institutions keen on installing a solar PV based captive power production facility, especially as a replacement for their diesel use. The focus of the report is to facilitate a much deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the captive solar PV segment, specifically in the context of costs and technology aspects. The report is developed by Energy Alternatives India (EAI), leading business intelligence and market research firm from India focused on the renewable energy and cleantech industries. This report was last updated in the first week of January 2014.


What Will You Know after Reading This Report?

üWhy should I go for solar based captive power? üHow much solar PV capacity do I need? üHow much will it cost to install a solar PV captive system? üHow much maintenance does a solar PV system require?

üWhat are the key things I should look out for before installing a solar PV system?

üWhat are the mistakes I should avoid?

üHow much space will I need for the captive PV installation?

üShould I use solar as a backup power or as a mainstream power source?

üWill I be able to depend completely on solar energy for my day time operations?

üIf I operate night shifts, will I need a storage system (battery) for my energy needs?

 üCan I sell my excess energy to the grid? üWhat are the components of the solar PV system?

üWhat is the lifetime of the system? üAm I eligible for availing government incentives?

üCan I install a hybrid captive system (mix of solar and wind OR solar and diesel)?

 üWhen should I consider using a generator with my solar PV system?





List of Contents
 
 
1 CAPTIVE POWER IN INDIA



1.1 Introduction
1.2 Captive Power Plants in India
1.3 Diesel in India
1.4 Why Solar for Captive Power
1.4.1 The Business Case for Captive Power Plant (CPP) Using Solar PV (SPV)
1.5 Attractive Market Segments
1.5.1 Large Industrial Facilities
1.5.2 Large Commercial Buildings/Facilities
1.5.3 Communication Sector
1.5.4 Water Pumping
1.5.5 On-shore and Off-shore Oil & Gas
1.5.6 Desalination
1.5.7 Remote Monitoring Stations
1.5.8 Warning Signals
1.5.9 Lighting
1.5.10 Refrigeration
1.6 Solar Power vs. Diesel Generator
1.7 Key Bottlenecks

2
TECHNOLOGY OPTIONS FOR CAPTIVE SOLAR PV



2.1 Introduction
2.2 Stand Alone PV Systems
2.3 Grid-tied Captive Power Plant
2.3.1 Grid-tied Systems With No Battery Backup
2.3.2 Grid-Interactive With Battery Backup
2.4 Hybrid Systems
2.4.1 Solar Photovoltaic-Diesel Generator Hybrid System
2.4.2 Solar Photovoltaic-Wind Hybrid System
2.5 Summary of Solar PV Technology Options

3
SETTING UP SOLAR CAPTIVE POWER PLANT IN INDIA

3.1 Steps Involved in Setting Up a Captive PV Power Plant
3.2 Steps Involved in Setting up a Hybrid System
3.3 Key Requirements to Set Up a Captive Power Plant (CPP)
3.3.1 Essential Components
3.3.2 Optional Components
3.4 Setting up PV Captive Power Plants - Key Factors to Consider
3.5 Indian Companies and Entities Involved in Setting up of a Captive Power Plant
3.5.1 Moser Baer
3.5.2 Sharp
3.5.3 Reliance Solar
3.5.4 Tata Power Solar Systems Limited
3.5.5 Photon Energy Systems Limited
3.5.6 Vimal Electronics
3.5.7 BHEL
3.5.8 Conergy
3.5.9 Vikram solar
3.5.10 Titan Energy Systems (TITAN)
3.5.11 Solar Semiconductor
3.5.12 Topsun Energy Limited
3.5.13 L&T Solar Limited
3.5.14 Wipro EcoEnergy
3.5.15 Solarsis
3.5.16 Refex Energy
3.5.17 Chemtrols Solar Pvt. Ltd
3.5.18 Aspiration Energy
3.5.19 Headway Solar

3.5.20 Solar - Apps
3.5.21 Eco-Save India Pvt. Ltd
3.5.22 Swelect Energy Systems Limited
3.5.23 SunEdison
3.5.24 Zynergy
3.5.25 Su-Kam
3.5.26 Mahindra Solar
3.5.27 Juwi
3.5.28 Lanco solar
3.5.29 EverSun Energy Private Limited
3.5.30 Ravano Green Power
3.5.31 ILIOS Power Pvt Ltd
3.5.32 Sterling and Wilson Ltd.
3.5.33 Enfinity Solar Solutions Pvt Ltd - India
3.5.34 Gensol Solar
3.5.35 Enerparc Energy Pvt Limited
3.5.36 Solid Solar

4
POLICIES, REGULATIONS; INCENTIVES



4.1 Introduction
4.2 Government Incentives and Policies
4.2.1 Captive SPV and the NSM
4.2.2 Electricity Act
4.3 Frequently Asked Questions



 ECONOMICS OF CAPTIVE POWER PLANTS



5.1 Introduction
5.2 Capital Costs and Breakups
5.2.1 Inputs Used in the Financial Model
5.2.2 Performance of Solar PV System
5.3 Results of the Financial Model
5.4 The BOO(T) Model

6
FINANCING OF CPPs



6.1 Introduction
6.2 Project Finance Characteristics
6.3 Asset Finance Characteristics
6.4 Corporate Finance
6.5 Most Likely Routes for Financing of Solar PV CPP
6.6 Nodal Agencies that Support Renewable Energy Financing in India
6.6.1 IREDA
6.6.2 Power Finance Corporation Ltd
6.7 Financial Institutions that Fund RE Projects in India

7
NEXT STEPS TO BE TAKEN BY A SOLAR PV CAPTIVE POWER DEVELOPER

7.1 Introduction
7.2 Preparing Prefeasibility and Detailed Project Reports
7.3 Meeting Government Departments
7.3.1 List and Contact Details of State Nodal Agencies (SNA) in Various States
7.3.2 Central Government Relevant Department Details and Contacts
7.4 List of System Integrators of Solar PV Captive Power System

8
Solar PV in India – Industry Status and Trends

8.1 Introduction
8.1.1 Introduction to Alternative Energy Sources
8.2 Solar PV Technology
8.2.1 Solar PV – Crystalline Solar Cells
8.2.2 Solar PV – Thin Film Solar Cells
8.2.3 Solar PV - Concentrating Photovoltaic
8.2.4 Photo-electrochemical, Polymer, Nano-crystal and Hybrid cells
8.3 Solar PV Market Status and Trends
8.3.1 Market Share of Thin Film Photovoltaics
8.3.2 Solar Photovoltaic in India – A Snapshot
8.4 Solar Energy Potential in India
8.4.1 Regional Potential for Solar Power
8.4.2 Current Solar PV Scenario in India
8.4.3 Future Solar PV Scenario
8.4.4 Solar PV Future Contribution in Indian Electricity Supply
8.5 Status of Solar PV Technology in India
8.5.1 Solar Cells and Solar PV Production
8.5.2 Foreign Trade of Solar PV
8.6 Prominent Solar PV Power Projects & Companies in India
8.6.1 Solar PV Power Projects Installed
8.6.2 Solar PV Power Projects Approved by the Central Government under Phase I of JNNSM Scheme

8.6.3 Solar PV State Projects
8.7 Key Challenges to Growth of Solar PV in India



9 Case Studies of Indian Use of Captive Solar PV

9.1 Captive Solar PV Systems – Experience of L&T, Chennai
9.2 Captive Solar PV Systems – Experience of SSN Research Center, Chennai
9.3 1 MW Hybrid Energy Supply for a Cotton Mill, Tirupur, TN, India
9.4 Captive Solar PV Systems – Experience of Omax Auto Ltd, Gurgaon, Haryana
9.5 Captive Solar PV Systems at Daimler India, Chennai
9.6 Solar PV Captive Power Installations in India

10
Highlights and Key Takeaways from this Report

11 Useful Resources

11.1 Useful Government Links

11.1.1 MNRE Accredited Manufacturers, Suppliers and Channel Partners

11.1.2 Subsidies and Incentives

11.1.3 Policies and Regulations

11.1.4 FAQ Links

11.2 Other Useful Links

11.3 Free PV Books!
12
Annexure



12.1 Details of Solar PV Power Projects Commissioned in India

12.2 SECI – Grid Connected Rooftop Solar PV Phase II
12.3 Procedure for the issuance of Renewable Energy Certificates


Captive Power in India

Compared to the hectic growth in electricity demand, India has seen only a modest pace of growth in the supply of electricity. Power shortages have had a significant impact on companies and industries, especially manufacturing industries. As a result, quite a few businesses have started generating their own power, using conventional sources (usually diesel for small backup power and relatively larger coal based power plants) and in later periods wind based captive power plants were also set up. For these companies, in recent times, solar is emerging to be an attractive option. This chapter gives an overview of conventional captive power plant status and explains the advantages of using solar for captive power generation.

CHAPTER-1

Key Sections
1.1 Introduction

1.2 Captive Power Plants in India

1.3 Diesel in India

1.4 Why Solar for Captive Power

1.4.1 The Business Case for Captive Power Plant (CPP) Using Solar PV (SPV)

1.5 Attractive Market Segments

1.5.1 Large Industrial Facilities

1.5.2 Large Commercial Buildings/Facilities

1.5.3 Communication Sector

1.5.4 Water Pumping

1.5.5 On-shore and Off-shore Oil & Gas

1.5.6 Desalination

1.5.7 Remote Monitoring Stations

1.5.8 Warning Signals

1.5.9 Lighting

1.5.10 Refrigeration

1.6 Solar Power vs. Diesel Generator
1.7 Key Bottlenecks 
Solar Power vs. Diesel Generator Uncertainty in Weather: The design of a solar power generation system involves either the use of historical weather data or weather forecast methods to predict the future temporal evolution of the solar energy system. Despite the use of such methods, the behaviour of weather conditions always involves high uncertainty. Unless such uncertainty is accounted for during the system design, the performance of the solar-based system will only be optimum within the range of the considered weather conditions. Potentially unpredictable weather fluctuations will result in suboptimal system operation.

Solar Irradiance: Solar irradiance is one of the most important factors in the operation of the PV systems and it can have a significant impact on the efficiency and power quality response of the whole system. The variable power flow due to the fluctuation of solar irradiance and temperature are some of the parameters that affect the power quality of photovoltaic systems. With high connection densities of photovoltaics in the distribution grid, low irradiance can lead to undesirable variations of power and supply quality (voltage and current) at the connection point which might even exceed acceptable limits. The system injects a highly distorted current (with respect to the fundamental frequency current) to the distribution network during low solar irradiance conditions. It has been found that low solar irradiance has a significant impact on the power quality of the output of the PV system.

Initial Cost: The high initial cost of solar PV systems is one of the most significant barriers to PV adoption. However, the recent results of MNRE’s bidding under JNNSM phase 1 batch 2 process show that the cost of solar system have fallen significantly. As the initial cost of PV system decreases and the cost of diesel fuel increases, these systems will become more economically competitive. It is important to note that solar has already achieved grid parity when compared with diesel based power generation.

Sample Topic Captive Power Plants in India 

Technology Options

Selecting the best system design for a particular application is more important. Often a combination of techniques can dramatically reduce costs and improve the reliability of a system, or provide the design flexibility to cover a wide range of applications. This chapter explains three different types of solar PV systems ·Stand-alone PV System ·Grid-tied PV System oGrid-Interactive Without Battery Backup oGrid-Interactive With Battery Backup ·Hybrid Solar PV System Designing and implementation of each of these categories is different, and would need to be treated accordingly.

CHAPTER-2





Key Sections
2.1 Introduction

2.2 Stand Alone PV Systems

2.3 Grid-tied Captive Power Plant

2.3.1 Grid-tied Systems With No Battery Backup

2.3.2 Grid-Interactive With Battery Backup

2.4 Hybrid Systems

2.4.1 Solar Photovoltaic-Diesel Generator Hybrid System

2.4.2 Solar Photovoltaic-Wind Hybrid System
2.5 Summary of Solar PV Technology Options Replacing Diesel with Solar – A Complete Guide to Installing Solar PV for Backup Power www.eai.in Beneficial in terms of improved reliability, energy services, operational life and energy efficiency, the hybrid system has brought forth the highest form of perfection in electricity generation. This system combines two energy sources; the sun and a diesel generator (genset), where the genset supplies excess load and recharge the battery during overcasts. The hybrid system is meant for backup power in case of a power shortage, say during the peak demands. It also reduces downtime during maintenance or repairs since the system on its own, ensures that all the components are used efficiently at an optimum rate. For example, during the day, the solar modules will generate energy in the form of Direct Current (DC) and is stored in the battery or straight away put to use by converting it into AC through the inverter. So, when night time falls and the solar modules do not generate energy, the DC stored in the battery is put into use. However, the DC stored in the battery is not necessarily enough to support the energy demand throughout the night since during day time, it may rain or the sunlight might be blocked by thick clouds, reducing the energy production. This will maximize the discharge level of the battery, causing its operational life to decrease, in other words, exhausting the battery. Here is where the genset comes in. The genset produces AC and can be immediately used and simultaneously rectified to produce DC to recharge the battery. The mechanism can also happen during peak loads or when a prolonged period of overcast occurs. In addition, due to this alternate operation, the overall system has prolonged life proven by the discharge level of the battery is being kept optimum. The hybrid system adopts an environment-friendly technology whereby the diesel generator is used discontinuously and the whole operation itself is much quieter. All this is governed by a micro-processor-based controller unit. The first installation may take up a high cost, but the maintenance cost afterwards is very low. In addition, we can save fuel consumption of the genset because the solar photovoltaic (PV) modules support the base electricity load while the genset provides additional energy should there be a sudden peak in the energy demand.


Sample Topic Solar Photovoltaic-Diesel Generator Hybrid System 

 Setting up Solar CPP in India Once an entrepreneur has decided to set up a solar based captive power plant, there are seven steps involved in designing a successful captive solar PV installation. Whether the solar electric system is going to be small or large, and whether it is going to be off the shelf lighting kit or designing something from scratch, it is worth following these steps to ensure one gets the best from the system.

CHAPTER-3

Key Sections
3.1 Steps Involved in Setting Up a Captive PV Power Plant

3.2 Steps Involved in Setting up a Hybrid System

3.3 Key Requirements to Set Up a Captive Power Plant (CPP)

3.3.1 Essential Components

3.3.2 Optional Components

3.4 Setting up PV Captive Power Plants - Key Factors to Consider
3.5 Indian Companies and Entities Involved in Setting up of a Captive Power Plant


Sizing for a Diesel-Solar Hybrid System with Batteries Integrating solar power with diesel generator sets without affecting the daily operations has proved to be more challenging than originally thought. A whole host of issues related to frequency synchronisation, reverse current flows, and efficiency losses have contributed to solar system sizing limitations which have a direct bearing on the savings possible and consequently, the economics of the investment. Frequency & Power Quality: As the loading factor of the diesel generator varies (as a result of introducing an intermittent solar power source into the mix), the frequency of the output AC power can vary beyond acceptable levels reducing the quality of power. Some modern day devices require high quality power to operate. Reverse Current Flow: When the output of the solar power exceeds that of the load demand, some reverse current will flow in the diesel generator. Normally, there are acceptable levels to which this can happen beyond which the diesel generator trips cutting off the reference voltage for the solar and the system breaks down. Efficiency and Minimum Loading: Diesel generators operate in various modes. Running a generator at loads below the minimum load factor1 for prolonged periods affects the efficiency of operations which in turn has a bearing on fuel consumption, maintenance costs and useful life. Operating below the minimum load is possible if a sizeable solar system is integrated into the supply and results in decreased lifecycle savings of the solar-diesel generator system. Sample Topic Steps Involved in Setting a Captive PV Power Plant

Policies, Regulations & Incentives For setting up an enabling environment for solar technology penetration in the country both at a centralized and decentralized level, in June 2010, government of India announced the guidelines for solar off-grid and decentralized power, under the National Solar Mission. Under this scheme, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) provided central financial assistance for setting up of solar power projects for captive use. This chapter gives details on the financial assistance, eligibility criteria, and process involved in obtaining this assistance.

CHAPTER-4

Key Sections
4.1 Introduction

4.2 Government Incentives and Policies

4.2.1 Captive SPV and the NSM

· Guidelines for Off-grid and Decentralized Solar Applications

· Central Financial Assistance & Eligibility

· How to Apply

· Commissioning of the Projects

4.2.2 Electricity Act
4.3 Frequently Asked Questions


 Wind-Solar Hybrid Systems a)The MNRE support for wind solar hybrid/ aerogenerator systems will be provided on per kW basis. The support will be provided on the basis of type of users. Following two slabs of CFA will be available: Government/ public/charitable, R&D, academic and other non-profit making institutions. Rs. 1.50 lakh per kW Other beneficiaries not covered in the above given category (individuals and private/corporate sector will come under this category) Rs. 1.00 lakh per kW For 25 demo projects in North-Eastern states including Sikkim & J&K including Leh-Laddakh Rs. 2.25 lakh per kW b)The remaining cost of the system and all other expenditure related to packing & forwarding, transportation, installation and commissioning of the system will be a part of the system and will be met by the beneficiary of the system. c)In case of installation of systems to be done through SNAs, an administrative charge @ 2% of CFA will be provided to SNAs at the time of final release. Sample Topic Captive SPV and the NSM

Economics of Captive Power Plants The costs involved in setting up and running solar PV power plants are significantly different from those for coal based or natural gas power plants. Solar power systems are much higher in capital costs and much lower in operating costs. This chapter explains in detail the capital and operating expenses of captive PV systems and provides a comprehensive comparison of a captive solar system with a diesel genset system.

CHAPTER-5

Key Sections
5.1 Introduction

· Solar PV and Grid Parity

· Solar PV’s Diesel Parity

5.2 Capital Costs and Breakups

5.2.1 Inputs Used in the Financial Model

5.2.2 Performance of Solar PV System

5.3 Results of the Financial Model

· Pessimistic Scenario

· Likely Scenario

· Optimistic Scenario
5.4 The BOO(T) Model Replacing Diesel with Solar – A Complete Guide to Installing Solar PV for Backup Power www.eai.in Cost break up of a 100 kW solar captive system – without batteries
Items Cost range PV modules 31.5 - 33.8 Lakhs Inverters (grid tie) 7.7 - 8.3 Lakhs Balance of System (transformers, cables and wires, tracking devices, etc.) 23.8 - 25.5 Lakhs Installation (civil & general works) 6.3 - 6.8 Lakhs Total 70.0 – 75.0 As can be seen from the above table, the capex of a 100 kW system without batteries (i.e. a grid tie system) will be approximately 70.0-75.0 lakhs Note: The cost range is given here because different manufacturers price their products differently. Sample Topic Capital Costs and Breakups 

 Financing of Solar CPPs One of the key challenges in installing a Solar CPP is the financing aspect. This being a nascent industry, project developers would be keen to know how to finance the projects, especially when banks and other financial industries do not have much exposure in this area. This chapter describes various financing options available in the country for setting up captive power plants.

CHAPTER-6

Key Sections
6.1 Introduction

6.2 Project Finance Characteristics

6.3 Asset Finance Characteristics

6.4 Corporate Finance

6.5 Most Likely Routes for Financing of Solar PV CPP

6.6 Nodal Agencies that Support Renewable Energy Financing in India

6.6.1 IREDA

6.6.2 Power Finance Corporation Ltd
6.7 Financial Institutions that Fund RE Projects in India Replacing Diesel with Solar –


Project Debt Financing for Renewable Energy – Highlights Parameter Value Debt: Equity 70:30 Loan Tenure 6-8 years (including 1 year moratorium) Interest 11-11.5% Note: All details provided are only indicative in nature; The table above provides the highlights of renewable energy financing in India. A similar pattern is expected for solar PV captive financing as well. Financial Institutions that Fund RE Projects in India: The primary debt providers in renewable energy project financing are commercial banks. Prominent domestic banks that currently fund renewable projects are: Industrial Development Bank of India (IDBI), Export-Import Bank of India, ICICI Bank, the Industrial Finance Corporation of India (IFCI), State Bank of India, Yes Bank, and PNB. Sample Topic Project Finance

Next Steps to be taken by a Solar PV Captive Power Developer

Solar PV captive power developers need to undertake a series of steps before they can start the implementation of the solar PV power system. These steps include efforts for both analyses (technical and economic feasibility) as well as interactions with government departments and prospective suppliers. This chapter provides detailed inputs on how institutions and entrepreneurs can undertake each of these activities.

CHAPTER-7

Key Sections
7.1 Introduction

7.2 Preparing Prefeasibility and Detailed Project Reports

7.3 Meeting Government Departments

7.3.1 List and Contact Details of State Nodal Agencies (SNA) in Various States

7.3.2 Central Government Relevant Department Details and Contacts
7.4 List of System Integrators of Solar PV Captive Power System


Next Steps to be taken by a Solar PV Captive Power Developer

Solar PV in India – Industry Status and Trends India presents an attractive opportunity for captive solar PV developers and investors. Apart from PV (especially polycrystalline technology) based captive solar, standalone solar power plants can also be set up using other technologies. The objective of this chapter is to provide an introduction to alternative energy sources and discuss in detail about the status and trends of the Solar PV technology in India.

CHAPTER-8

Key Sections
8.1 Introduction

8.1.1 Introduction to Alternative Energy Sources

8.2 Solar PV Technology

8.2.1 Solar PV – Crystalline Solar Cells

8.2.2 Solar PV – Thin Film Solar Cells

8.2.3 Solar PV - Concentrating Photovoltaic

8.2.4 Photo-electrochemical, Polymer, Nano-crystal and Hybrid cells

8.3 Solar PV Market Status and Trends

8.3.1 Market Share of Thin Film Photovoltaics

8.3.2 Solar Photovoltaic in India – A Snapshot

8.4 Solar Energy Potential in India

8.4.1 Regional Potential for Solar Power

8.4.2 Current Solar PV Scenario in India

8.4.3 Future Solar PV Scenario

8.4.4 Solar PV Future Contribution in Indian Electricity Supply

8.5 Status of Solar PV Technology in India

8.5.1 Solar Cells and Solar PV Production

8.5.2 Foreign Trade of Solar PV

8.6 Prominent Solar PV Power Projects & Companies in India

8.6.1 Solar PV Power Projects Installed

8.6.2 Solar PV Power Projects Approved by the Central Government under Phase I of JNNSM Scheme

8.6.3 Solar PV State Projects
8.7 Key challenges to growth of Solar PV in India. Total available potential India lies in a sunny tropical belt (High insolation) Total theoretical potential – annually over 5,000 trillion kWh Exploited potential (production/installed capacity) Exploited potential (production/installed capacity) is very little; total installed capacity (grid and off grid) is approximately about 2,220 MW, and of that about 2,080 MW is grid-connected (as of Oct 2013) Future expected production/installed capacity For solar CSP and PV together, National Solar Mission attempts to reach an installed capacity of
· By 2013: 1-2 GW · By 2017: 4-10 GW · By 2020: 20 GW Moreover, large areas of the Thar Desert has been set aside for solar power projects, sufficient to generate 700 to 2,100 GW Specific government incentives National Solar Mission and other Generation Based Incentives (GBI) are available through Ministry of New and Renewable Energy Amount of investments happening in this now, expected in future Government is expected to spend $19 billion until 2022. Key bottlenecks and barriers · Cost of solar PV · High population density (land scarcity) · Technology obsolescence Cost of power generation - and trends in the same over years Current cost of production (after bidding) – Rs. 7/kWh (weighted average). This includes O&M, amortized/depreciated capital costs, loan repayment costs, and other expenses such as insurance. Costs of production expected of Solar PV power plants in the near future - Rs/kWh: By 2015 – 6 By 2020 – 5

Case studies of Indian Use of Captive Solar PV This section of the report presents the performance, impacts and lessons learnt from planning, implementing and monitoring of solar based captive power plants. Case studies of companies and organizations in India are provided here. The chapter also provides a comprehensive list of system integrators.

CHAPTER-9

Key Sections
9.1 Captive Solar PV Systems – Experience of L&T, Chennai

9.2 Captive Solar PV Systems – Experience of SSN Research Center, Chennai

9.3 1 MW Hybrid Energy Supply for a Cotton Mill, Tirupur, TN, India

9.4 Captive Solar PV Systems – Experience of Omax Auto Ltd, Gurgaon, Haryana

9.5 Captive Solar PV Systems at Daimler India, Chennai
9.6 Solar PV Captive Power Installations in India 


 Provided below is the sample list of SPV captive Power Installations in India. Name of Customer Location Project capacity System Type Impact Tata BP Solar Karnataka Public Works Department VikasaSoudha - Bangalore 100 kWp Roof-top Grid Connect Solar Power Plant The 100 kW Peak Solar Array provides power to satisfy the energy requirements of the building and the housing facilities of the government offices. Oil & Natural Gas Corporation Limited Mumbai High Field Standalone solar PV mounted on helideck of 9WPP The solar power generation system used on the ONGC wellhead offshore platforms powers telemetry, gas detection, lighting and navigational aid systems. Executive Ship ManagementPte Ltd Samudra Institute of Maritime Studies, Mumbai. 90kWp BIPV Systems BIPV installation in India, SIMS successfully satisfies most of the institute’s power requirements internally West Bengal Renewable Energy Development Agency (WBREDA) Indrapur, West Bengal 110 kWp Standalone Solar Power Plant The solar power generated, is utilized to provide power to every household for basic lighting, commercial utilization and for water pumping system Sample Topic Stand-alone Solar PV Installation in India


Our Clients and Customers
Prominent companies and organizations that have benefitted from our research and consulting services

To Purchase the Replacing Diesel with Solar Report-visit www.eai.in

Friday, December 19, 2014

Karnataka to buy solar power from Sun Edison’s 150-MW plant

The two Escoms will buy power from the proposed plant at an average rate of about Rs. 7 a unit. Photo: D.B. Patil

The Rs. 1,500-cr. plant will be set up on 750 acres in 18 months

Karnataka’s solar energy sector got a boost on Thursday with the signing of an agreement with the U.S.-based Sun Edison to buy power from its proposed 150-MW solar power plant being set up in the State at a cost of Rs. 1,500 crore.
Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (Bescom) and Hubli Electricity Supply Company (Hescom) signed agreements with Sun Edison here to buy power from the plant to be set up in about 18 months. The plant will generate about 225 million units of green energy a year.
Scouting for land
The proposed plant, which is the State’s biggest ever, will require 750 acres of land. The company is scouting for land in different districts. Company officials said they were considering options such as setting up the entire plant at one location or in five locations depending on the availability of land.
The two Escoms will buy power from the proposed plant at an average rate of about Rs. 7 a unit.
Energy Minister D.K. Shivakumar described the event as “historic”, while maintaining that it was the beginning of the implementation of the State’s mega plan to set up solar power plants with a total capacity of 1,000 MW within 18 months.
He explained that the proposed 150-MW plant was part of a scheme under which tenders had been called for setting up solar power plants with a total capacity of 500 MW. The other companies chosen under the scheme would soon set up their plants, he said.

Friday, October 31, 2014

MW Solar Blueprint


MW Solar Blueprint

Comprehensive GUIDANCE MEET for MW solar power plant developers

Saturday, Dec 6, Chennai, 9 AM – 6 PM

Organized by EAI, India’s leading renewable energy research & consulting firm

Are you an aspiring solar power plant developer?
Looking at putting up a solar power plant 1 MW or above?

Make sure you attend India’s first guidance meet for MW scale solar power plants
A full day program, Dec 6, at Chennai

Guiding you on every step of putting up a MW scale solar power plant

A day filled with step-by-step explanations and detailed answers.

This is a Guidance Session, NOT a Conference
There will be no speeches
Entire day only for extensive expert guidance and answers to questions
The entire day will be dedicated only to helping you understand the specifics of putting up high quality solar power plants
  • Data points for various aspects of a MW solar power plant
  • Checklists for MW solar power developers
  • Detailed inputs on how to calculate the right price to bid in solar tenders
  • Financing avenues
  • Recommendations on approaching banks and other financial institutions
  • Price points for the various components in a MW solar power plant
  • List of mistakes to avoid
  • Vendor selection strategy –strategy for selecting EPCs, panel and inverter vendors, and O&M vendors.
  • Site selection strategy
  • Case studies and data from existing power plants
  • Details on current and upcoming solar policies from central and state governments

A Must Attend Event for Solar Power Plant Developers

Remember, you will be investing tens of crores on a long term, 25 year asset.
It is critical to know from experts how best to go about this investment.
By spending just one day at this guidance meet, you will be able to understand the critical aspects to:
Implement a high quality solar power plant
At the best possible cost
Avoid costly mistakes

Specific Topics that will be Covered in the Guidance and Q&A Sessions

Returns & Risks

  • How attractive is an investment in MW scale solar power plant?
  • How attractive are my returns under various scenarios – with and without accelerated depreciation benefits, under various government policies and tenders
  • What are the risks involved in investing in solar power plants?

Steps Required

  • What are the first steps required to start off work?
  • Where can you find more information about solar policies of central and state governments?
  • How do I calculate my financial returns from my solar power plant?

Choosing Land, Vendors & Components

  • How can I choose the best vendor and components for the solar power plant to give highest returns over 25 years?
  • What are the various components in a solar power plant?
  • What are the price points for the various components in a solar power plant – the solar panels, inverters, mounting structures, installation cost, evacuation cost?
  • How do I choose my EPC for the solar power plant?
  • Can I use imported solar panels or is it better to purchase these from Indian manufacturers?
  • Should I go for large and prominent EPCs or small EPCs?
  • How do I choose the most suitable land for my solar power plant?
  • What about operations & maintenance of a MW scale solar power plant? Who will do this?

Business Models for MW Solar Power Plants

  • Is it a good idea to go for solar power plants under REC schemes?
  • Is it a good idea to go for solar power plants as a captive user?
  • Is the third party sale route for solar power plants an attractive option?
  • How viable are the current and upcoming solar policies from central and state governments?

Financing Options for MW Solar Power Plants

  • What are the practical financing options available for MW scale solar power plants?
  • What are the steps I should take before I approach banks and other funding agencies?
  • Which are the banks that are financing solar power plants?
  • Which are the non-banking financial institutions financing solar power plants?
  • What are the typical terms for solar power plant financing?
  • What are the options to get financing at interest rates lower than the prevailing interest rates?

Others

  • We will also be inviting questions from the participants prior to the event, and address these questions and concerns in detail.

Registration

Fee: Rs 13,000 plus service tax
Seat allotted on a First Come First Served Basis
For more details and to pre-register,
Talk to Muthukrishnan, 9952910083, events@eai.in. Please include MW Solar Blueprint in Subject of email.
Wish to pay online?
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Wednesday, October 29, 2014

India’s Largest Canal-Top Solar PV Plant To Come Online in Gujarat


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s love for solar is more than evident from the (fun) fact that he chose to lay the foundation stone for this 10 MW canal top project on 14 February 2014! Talk about SolarLove:D
When a 1 MW solar power plant came up on top of Narmada canal in Gujarat in 2012, it was very well received. The pilot project was developed on a 750-m stretch of the canal by Gujarat State Electricity Corporation (GSECL) with support from Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Ltd (SSNNL), which owns and maintains the canal network. Both are public entities.
Two quantifiable benefits of building solar power plants on canals as against conventional ground-mounted systems were widely reported — the amount of land it would save and also the amount of water it would save, which would have otherwise been lost due to evaporation. Both excellent points.
The capacity utilization factor works out to be around 18%, which should be easily achievable in Gujarat.
The only problem with the project was its high cost. At the time, it came up it cost $2.9 million for 1 MW, about 50% more expensive than a conventional ground mounted solar plant, and was criticised by some. But then, small-scale pilot projects have always been expensive.
About a year back, Mridul reported on the intentions of the Gujarat government to develop a second 10 MW canal-top solar power plant. As per recent news, installation of this 3.5 km long solar plant has now been completed and it is expected to come online anytime. The project took about eight months for completion.
The 10 MW canal top solar power plant has been installed in the city of Vadodara, over a branch of Narmada river canal. The EPC was handled by the Hyderabad-based Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Limited (MEIL). The total capital cost of the system has been about $15 million. MEIL will also be responsible for O&M of the solar power plant for 25 years which would cost another $1.6 million.
The plant will generate more than 16 million units a year, and will help reduce SSNNL’s dependency on state utility. The electricity generated will be used to power five pumping generators situated along Saurashtra branch canals to draw water and supply them for irrigation. It is expected that the cost of electricity would be in the region of Rs.7/kWh (about 11 cents per unit).
SSNNL also plans to build public gardens around the installation site, so that locals can relax and also be a witness to the marvels of clean energy generation!
http://cleantechnica.com/2014/10/28/indias-largest-canal-top-solar-pv-plant-come-online-gujarat/

Friday, October 17, 2014

To power the entire world, it would take an area of just 158 squared miles of ‎solar‬ panels.



To power the entire world, it would take an area of just 158 squared miles of ‪#‎solar‬ panels.

Read more: bit.ly/1nTCbFR

Friday, October 10, 2014

4 MW - Solar Power Plant at Vellakoil Karur district installed by Srinivas Mohan and Team

About 18000 Kg of CO2/day emission reduced by the Solar Power Plant, which is equivalent to develop and maintain 11,14,183 trees per day, think about nature, proud to be an solar developer



Single Axis Solar installation



Srinivas Mohan - Connect with us on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/srinivas.vimal?fref=ts

Srinivas Mohan - Ph no: 9952816880 (For solar consultation, Remote monitoring systems)

ICAI Organizes a Workshop on ‘Sustainable Solar Solutions for Companies with Large Energy Needs

Mumbai, October 1, 2014 — International Copper Association India (ICAI), a part of Copper Alliance in association with SMA India organized a special workshop on ‘Sustainable Solar Solutions for companies with large energy needs’ in Mumbai. The objective of the seminar was to create awareness for facilitation of faster decision making towards Solar Power Systems in India.
This workshop was addressed by a panel of dignitaries comprising Mr. Sanjeev Ranjan, Managing Director, ICAI, Mr. Virendra Kumar Gupta, Chief Manager, Renewables ICAI, Mr. Piyush Kumar, SMA-India and Mr. Vinay Rustagi, Managing Director, Bridge to India. The event witnessed a large gathering from solar system & component manufacturers, solar system integrators and other industrial units across India who actively participated in the interactive sessions.
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India is currently facing a major challenge of power shortage which is invariably affecting the production targets and interrupting continuous manufacturing processes. The cost of power back up systems, mainly the diesel generators varies from Rs.15/- to Rs. 30/- per unit. However, with technological advancement, this can be drastically reduced to Rs 7/- per unit with use of solar power. According to a recent research by International Energy Agency (IEA), solar power could become the world’s largest source of electricity by 2050 as the solar photovoltaic plants may provide around 16% of global electricity. The report also states, that the explosive growth in solar installations will be driven by further price drops. The cost of electricity from photovoltaic projects will fall by an average 25% by 2020, 45% by 2030 and 65% by 2050.
Commenting on this occasion, Mr. Sanjeev Ranjan, Managing Director, ICAI said, “Maharashtra is home to vast range of industrial establishments starting from micro units to very large units. It is imperative to have a steady power backup for such units. With the new government’s plan to provide 24*7 electricity supply, solar energy offers technologically feasible & economically viable alternative. The modular concept helps to design solar power plants to meet tailor made requirements of all sizes of industrial units. This further benefits to increase overall production efficiency and automating the standard processes thereby reducing cost-per-unit”.
The workshop also highlighted latest trends in Solar PV technologies along with the regulatory framework supporting solar energy in India. International Copper Association India (ICAI) has been very active in the field of promotion of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy.
About ICAI – The International Copper Association India (ICAI) is a member of Copper Alliance and the Indian arm of the International Copper Association Limited (ICA), the leading not for profit organization for the promotion of copper worldwide set up in 1959. The objective is to “Defend and grow markets for copper based on its superior technical performance and its contribution to a higher quality of life worldwide”. ICA India conducts various programs in the interest of Electrical Safety, Energy Efficiency and Sustainability.
For more information contact:
Mr. VK Gupta, ICAI
Mobile: +919766696516
Email: virender.gupta@copperalliance.asia
- See more at: http://www.eai.in/news-and-media/pr/international-copper-association-india-icai-organizes-a-workshop-on-sustainable-solar-solutions-for-companies-with-large-energy-needs#sthash.Me8lMQCd.dpuf