Developing climate-resilient decentralized solar solutions
A new report states decentralized solar installations in climate-vulnerable regions of Assam, Jharkhand, and Rajasthan lacked design to deal with future climate risks. The report authors, based on their study, outline considerations for policymakers, implementing agencies, vendors, and funding agencies to build resilient structures.
Visaka’s solar roof granted patent rights in South Africa
The company believes introducing its ATUM solar roof (PV panels integrated on cement boards) would be a gamechanger for South Africa. The product, which can directly be used as a roof, will enable distributed microgrids in the region to address the energy requirements of the unelectrified.
CSC partners Tata Power on installation of solar-powered microgrids and water pumps
Tata Power brings technology and financial strength to set up the distributed, small-scale solar power systems in rural areas and provide round-the-clock power supply to households and businesses. CSC brings to the partnership village-level entrepreneurs to provide quick, low-cost service support.
India reaches 39,104 MW of grid-connected solar
Karnataka leads with 7355 MW of installed solar capacity. It is followed by Rajasthan (5473 MW) and Tamil Nadu (4404 MW).
IISc sets up off-grid EV charging station powered by Vikram Solar modules
The Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore has set up a solar-powered charging station to conduct the system’s impact assessment. The system—designed by UK-based renewable energy advisor GreenEnco—uses Vikram Solar’s 16 mono PERC solar modules of 400 Wp each, a hybrid inverter, and battery storage.
In India, 67.6 million people live in cities embracing renewable energy in a big way
As of 2020, only 13 cities in India had renewable energy targets and/or policies in place. These cities, however, are home to a significant 67.6 million people.
Uttar Pradesh tenders for 10 MW of off-grid solar plants
Bids are invited to install and commission off-grid solar power plants in sizes varying from 500Wp to 50,000Wp.
Haryana plans 93 MW solar power capacity
The Haryana Power Generation Corporation Limited (HPGCL) plans to develop 77 MW solar capacity on its own land and 16 MW on land owned by village councils.
Mini-grid company Husk Power doubled revenues in 2020
Bihar-based Husk Power Systems—which operates more than 100 mini-grids in India and Africa—recorded a 90% year-on-year growth in revenues and quadrupled business customers to 5000+. It expects the growth momentum to continue in 2021, with a 125% rise in revenues.
India’s installed solar capacity reaches 41,689 MW
The nation installed a cumulative solar capacity of 41,689 MW as of December 31, 2020, with 1298 MW added in the October-December period. Going forward, capacity addition in the current year’s first quarter could exceed 2 GW.
