NHPC mulling hybrid solar + hydro projects in Ladakh
The state-run hydropower producer has commissioned 89 MW hydropower projects in Leh and Kargil, and is eyeing another 155 MW hydro and a 50 MW solar project in the union territory.
The long read: Cheaper, safer EV batteries to bolster grid
Electric vehicles can transition from liabilities to assets if steps are taken by battery manufacturers, the auto industry, and policymakers, argues Milan Rosina, a principal analyst in the power electronics and batteries division of Yole Développement.
New method to measure cell voltages in operational PV modules
Scientists in Japan have proposed a new model to estimate cell voltages in solar modules by irradiating the cells with a weak modulated laser light. The method could be used to detect hot spots and other panel-degradation issues, such as potential induced degradation (PID) peeling, cracking, and poor contacts.
Adani chief talks solar and hydrogen storage opportunity
Covid-19 crisis has provided system operators with insights on keeping the grid stable with high levels of renewable penetration. Post Covid-19, this may be the new norm, Gautam Adani said in a LinkedIn post recently.
MNRE seeks consultants for the global supergrid plan
July 6 is the last date to submit proposals for the ambitious ‘one sun, one world, one grid’ plan that aims at seamless sharing of renewable energy resources among countries for mutual benefits and global sustainability. The program has been taken up by the Ministry with assistance from the World Bank.
Modi calls for a rooftop-solar-powered city in every state
The prime minister again emphasized the need for India to develop a domestic solar manufacturing industry and also urged officials to get on with plans to make Ladakh carbon-neutral.
Tata Power aims to set up 700 EV charging stations this fiscal
Under the brand name EZ Charge, Tata Power has already installed 170 fast and smart-charging points for electric vehicles in more than 20 cities across the country.
Pouch lamination technique for solar cell encapsulation
Madurai Kamaraj University scientists have used a pouch laminator to encapsulate a polycrystalline solar cell. The resulting device, the researchers claim, showed better UV photon absorption than solar cells treated with a polymer surface coating.
NTPC tenders 600 MW grid-connected solar EPC work
The interstate transmission system (ISTS) connected solar projects—to be set up on a turnkey basis—can be located anywhere in India. Bidding closes on June 22.
Integrating agriculture and solar energy production
A study by Germany’s Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems has evaluated the feasibility of horticulture PV at the site of Paras in Akola district of Maharashtra, where the state utility Maharashtra State Power Generation Co. Ltd (Mahagenco) is considering to install a ground-mounted solar system on more than 100 hectare (ha) of arable land.
