Month: February 2024

Addressing the Hurdles and Strategies for Rooftop Solar Adoption in India

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Solar energy is one of the cleanest sources of energy available in abundance, as per the department of energy. Despite the facts of its easy procurement and accessibility, there are some challenges faced by many developing countries like India.

Reports by the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited (IREDA) reveal that solar energy can lower the power generation from fossil fuels in India if harnessed efficiently. In this blog, we will disclose the challenges rooftop solar panel manufacturers in India face after getting plenty of incentives. Besides the incentives offered by union and state governments, the growth of the SPV rooftop sector is beset with numerous obstacles. Among them are outlined in the subsequent section.

Challenges Faced While Implementing Rooftop Solar in India

Several challenges are present during the implementation of the solar rooftops. A few are outlined below-

1. The expensive initial outlay is required for installing solar panels on rooftops despite a roughly 50% worldwide drop in PV module prices since 2011. This price is considered expensive for a rooftop Solar Company In India too. As a result, costs continue to be higher for many customers.

2. The price of assembly components for power storage, such as batteries and inverters.

3. The grid’s stability is threatened by power from several modest solar installations. Grid integration challenges, including the possibility of power flow reversals across the network and unpredictable low voltage protection system. 

4. Restrictions on the Feed in Tariff (FiT) strategy because of problems with monitoring and verification to prevent system abuse from feeding fuels that are subsidised.

5. Lack of awareness in consumers: Many people are still unaware about the schemes and other benefits provided by the government. 

6. Technical specifications, such as voltage, flicker, and synchronization, need to be improved for the net-metering system.

7. Flip-Flopping Policies: Some states need to be more consistent regarding solar energy, creating uncertainty making it difficult for consumers and power distribution companies to make decisions.

8. Increased Taxes: Recently, taxes on different components of solar systems have been raised, which adds to the overall cost of adopting solar energy. This tax increase will impact the capital cost of solar systems by around 4-5%.

However, to solve these challenges, many steps have been taken by the government of India through some policies and schemes. Some of them are-

Solutions to Solve Hurdles in Rooftop Solar Implementation

1. The government has made a number of policy announcements to support solar energy. Imports are eligible for direct and indirect tax benefits, such as sales tax, excise duty exemptions, and custom duty exceptions. 

2. In addition to accelerated depreciation (AD), which allows solar energy project developers to claim 80% of the expenditures in the first year itself, project developers were granted an exemption from income tax on all earnings from the project throughout its first ten years of operation.

3. To combat climate change, the government of India has announced mission-mode action plans for sustainable growth under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC). Its primary goal was to accelerate the development of solar energy. Additionally, it recommended raising RPOs to 5% of the entire cost of grid purchases. 

4. Solar Energy Generation-Based Incentives (GBI): GBIs were introduced 2009 for small grid solar projects under 33 kV. They were introduced as a fiscal incentive to bridge the difference between the rate set by the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission and the base tariff of INR 5.5.

5. Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission: 2022 aimed to generate 20,000 MW of solar power capacity, of which 2,000 MW would come from off-grid sources. 

6. Joint Liability Group (JLG) for Off-grid Installations: A small group of four to ten local entrepreneurs formed the JLG to combine their business and social potential to get loans for non-farming activities, including the application for micro-grid installations. 

7. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): The top 500 corporations allocate 2% of their profits to off-grid solutions to satisfy social goals like pollution-free generating and to encourage the private sector’s participation in the country’s progress. This step will enhance the image of the company in front of stakeholders and guide others also to move towards sustainability.

Apart from these policies, many Government Schemes have also been introduced-

Schemes for Promoting Solar Energy

1. Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) – Through this scheme central government will aid Rs. 34,422 Crore as financial support. The scheme is divided into 3 components and must be completed by 2026.

2. National wind-solar hybrid policy- In this scheme a framework will be provided for the promotion of large grid connected wind-solar PV hybrid system. 

3. Atal Jyoti Yojana- Through this scheme dark regions of India will be illuminated with solar streetlights.

4. International Solar Alliance- It is a joint initiative of India and France to deploy the solar energy solutions against climate change.  

5. One Sun, One World, One Grid- It is aimed to connect different regional grids to a common grid. 

Conclusion

India is currently ranking fifth in the world for the distribution of solar power, and in the last five years, its utilisation has increased by more than 11 times.

Solar power has a lot to promise. As a result, the use of this renewable energy source will become necessary rather than just necessary, particularly in developing nations with high power demand like India. Therefore, challenges must be conquered with all the awareness and R&D required in this field. The R&D part can be fulfilled by including the private sector. An eminent Rooftop Solar Company In India like Hartek group can help in overcoming these above hurdles.

How Green Hydrogen can help India achieve its climate change Goals

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Green hydrogen certainly represents a monumental opportunity in the global push for climate solutions. For India, committed to ambitious environmental goals, green hydrogen application offers a pivotal path forward. Produced through the renewable splitting of water into hydrogen and oxygen, this zero-emission energy source provides a means to meaningfully reduce carbon impacts. This article aims to explore how green hydrogen can enable India not only to attain but potentially fulfill its climate objectives. We will investigate the transformational potential of green hydrogen in powering India’s pursuit of a more sustainable and eco-friendly future through varied applications across industries. From fueling transport to powering hard-to-abate sectors, green hydrogen may play a vital role, leveraging India’s renewable energy strengths to support a low-carbon transition and long-term energy security.

The Promising Future of Renewable and Sustainable Sources

Hydrogen, an important component for a variety of applications with complex relations, is viewed as one leg of the renewable and sustainable new energy era. Made through the electrolysis of water generated by renewable energy such as solar or wind power, this form of hydrogen is a completely clean and sustainable fuel. Unlike traditional hydrogen production, which is usually based on fossil fuel and releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, green hydrogen’s manufacturing process emits nothing but oxygen. This places it in a position as an energy source with net zero emissions.

The ecological advantages of green hydrogen are enormous. If widely adopted, it would make a big contribution to global efforts to slow climate change. As a possible substitute for fossil fuels across such applications as transportation, industry, and energy generation, green hydrogen is a flexible remedy to the world’s energy chaos. Such a shift could revolutionize energy infrastructures the world over, making them cleaner and less dependent on carbon-based sources.

Green Technology: Revolutionizing India’s Energy Sector

The widespread applications of green hydrogen hold immense potential to revolutionize India’s energy landscape. As India’s economy continues expanding rapidly and energy demands escalate sharply, the country now faces a defining moment where environmentally-friendly solutions, notably green hydrogen, can steer it toward a more sustainable path. Advanced green hydrogen generation techniques, such as electrolysis powered solely by renewable sources, are integral to facilitating this transformation. Such progress promises not only a significant reduction in carbon pollution but also enhances energy security and resilience.

The Indian government’s role in enabling this transition is paramount. Through policies encouraging green hydrogen technologies – subsidies for renewable energy enterprises and incentives for R & D, for instance – the government can create a climate facilitating the development of eco-friendly options. The National Hydrogen Mission is one of the early steps toward bringing to the forefront India’s resolve to wholeheartedly embrace green hydrogen; it paves the way for a cleaner, greener, and self-reliant energy future. 

The Rise of Indian Sustainable Hydrogen Companies

The rising tide of sustainable hydrogen enterprises in India is steering the nation towards a greener future. By cultivating innovations in production and collaborating on extensive projects, these companies are establishing the infrastructure necessary for a hydrogen economy while strengthening India’s portfolio of renewable resources.

Key initiatives undertaken by Indian sustainable hydrogen firms include large-scale electrolysis powered by solar and wind energy to generate ample supply. Additional partnerships with global technology leaders foster knowledge exchange and mutual progress toward fueling vehicles and machinery with clean hydrogen. Such vigorous endeavors exemplify hydrogen’s potential as an alternative to fossil fuels and spotlight India’s role in propelling this eco-friendly transformation through domestic companies at the vanguard. Collectively, their determined efforts are paving the way for India’s transition to an economy driven by hydrogen, harmonizing with environmental protections and energy demands.

Obstacles and Opportunities in Green Hydrogen Adoption

Adopting green hydrogen in India comes with its set of green hydrogen challenges. A major hurdle lies in the excessive expenses required to establish renewable sources powering the electrolysis procedure. Developing the necessary framework for hydrogen storage and transportation also presents a sizeable challenge, necessitating significant financial investment and technological progress.

In spite of these barriers, green hydrogen portends tremendous potential. It could spawn countless jobs across manufacturing, distribution, and applications, fueling economic growth. Furthermore, as a clean energy alternative, it aligns with India’s pledge to reduce its carbon footprint, inviting worldwide collaborations and investments in the renewable sector. Transitioning to a green hydrogen economy might spur India’s journey towards sustainable progress and energy autonomy.

Conclusion 

The potential uses for green hydrogen technologies in India are critical for attaining climate targets. Adopting renewable and eco-friendly practices, backed by technological progress in clean energy solutions and the emergence of domestic firms developing sustainable hydrogen, is key. While green hydrogen applications represent a significant part of India’s strategy to fulfill its commitments to reducing emissions, balancing continued economic expansion with environmental protection poses challenges. However, harnessing renewable resources to power a hydrogen economy holds great promise and could guide the nation toward a future defined by growth that is both greener and more sustainable overall.

Hartek Group Applauds Government’s Interim Budget 2024, Paving the Way for Renewable Energy Revolution

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In a resounding endorsement of renewable energy, India’s recent budget has unveiled a robust financial framework, positioning the country at the forefront of sustainable and clean energy initiatives. Let’s explore the key highlights and their implications for India’s renewable energy landscape.

1. A Strategic Shift in Solar Power (Grid) Sector:

The allocation of over Rs 11,500 crore for Solar Power (Grid) projects is a transformative step towards harnessing the immense potential of solar energy. Notably, the budget earmarks Rs 10,000 crore for the fiscal year 2024-25, marking a remarkable 110% surge from the revised estimates of Rs 4,757 crore. This significant investment reflects the government’s acknowledgment of solar power as a key element in achieving the nation’s energy goals.

2. Solar Rooftop takes the Limelight:

Through rooftop solarization, 10 million households will be enabled to obtain up to 300 units free electricity every month. This is expected to yield savings of up to Rs 15,000 to Rs 18,000 annually for households from free solar electricity.

3. National Green Hydrogen Mission Gains Momentum:

A standout feature is the five-fold surge in budgetary allocation for the National Green Hydrogen Mission, reaching Rs 600 crore for the fiscal year 2024-25. This mission, launched in 2023 with an initial outlay of 19,744 Cr, aims to position India as a global hub for manufacturing clean energy. The increased funding underscores the government’s commitment to promoting green hydrogen as a crucial component of India’s energy transition.

4. Wind Power Sector Receives a Boost:

The budget allocates Rs 930 crore for the wind power sector in the fiscal year 2024-25. While this may seem modest, the 1.5% increase from the previous year’s allocation signifies the government’s dedication to maintaining a diversified renewable energy portfolio. Wind power’s role in the overall energy mix is recognized, ensuring a holistic approach to sustainable energy generation. Strategic allocation of Viability Gap Funding for harnessing offshore Wind Energy with an initial capacity of 1GW aligns with the overall vision of sustainable growth. 

5. Comprehensive Measures for Achieving Net-Zero by 2070:

The budget outlines key measures to achieve net-zero by 2070, emphasizing offshore wind energy potential, coal gasification, liquefaction capacity, and a significant push for electric vehicles (EVs). The focus on rooftop solarization, enabling 10 million households to obtain free electricity monthly, showcases a commitment to making renewable energy accessible and beneficial for the masses.

6. Reinforcing Self-Sufficiency for Natural Gas:

Budget set to establish coal gasification and liquefaction capacity by 100 MT by 2030. This move is expected to reduce India’s dependence on imports of natural gas, methanol and ammonia, in a push towards cleaner fuel alternatives. 

7. Holistic Approach to Environmental Sustainability:

The budget goes beyond financial allocations by promoting a holistic approach to environmental sustainability. Financial assistance for biomass aggregation machinery, innovative bio-manufacturing schemes, and mandatory blending of compressed biogas underscore India’s dedication to cleaner fuels and reduced carbon emissions.

These investments will catalyze a series of Innovations and attract both domestic and international investors to further consolidate India’s position as a global leader in renewable energy and set a precedent for other economies to follow suit for climate change.

As the government sets the stage for a cleaner and greener future, the Hartek Group stands ready to play a pivotal role in realizing the shared vision of a sustainable and resilient energy landscape for India. The increased financial support for solar, hydrogen, and wind projects signifies a positive step towards achieving a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.

2024 | Budget 2024: Great Expectations For Indian Power Sector

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As the anticipation builds for Budget 2024, the Indian power sector is poised for significant expectations and hopes. With the past Union Budgets laying the groundwork for sustainable energy growth, the upcoming budget is expected to be a pivotal moment for the industry. Representing Hartek Group, let’s delve into the key expectations that the Indian power sector envisions for Budget 2024.

The Foundation Laid by Previous Budgets

The outcomes of the 2023 Union Budget showcased a clear commitment to green energy and sustainability. Notable allocations for the Green Hydrogen Mission, priority capital investments, and support for interstate transmission systems signalled a proactive approach towards energy transition and security.

Initiatives like facilitating 1 Cr rooftops through Pradhan Mantri Suryoday Yojana and schemes such as PM-KUSUM and Solar Rooftop Phase II have set the stage for a more robust and sustainable power ecosystem. The focus on transmission lines under the Green Energy Corridor Scheme and standards for solar deployment demonstrated a holistic strategy towards a greener grid.

A Glimpse into the Future: Budget 2024 Expectations

1. Solar Revolution Acceleration:

   – The budget should act as a catalyst for the solar sector, prioritizing cost reduction, expanded Production-Linked Incentives (PLIs), and investments in energy storage.

   – Innovative financing models can be explored to make solar energy more accessible and attractive for investors.

2. Global Commitments Integration:

   – Align budget initiatives with recent global commitments seen in G20 and COP28 summits.

   – Triple renewable targets by 2030, emphasizing India’s global leadership in clean energy solutions.

3. Skilling for Sustainable Growth:

   – Allocate substantial funds towards smart grid development and energy storage initiatives.

   – Boosting job potential, this would not only support economic growth but also empower local communities.

4. Investments in Research and Development:

   – Unlock efficiencies and cost reductions through strategic R&D investments.

   – Foster innovation and technological advancements for a more resilient and sustainable power sector.

Summary of Expectations from Interim Budget 2024

1. Scaling up finance for green projects:

  The Interim Budget 2024 is expected to focus on increasing financial support for environmentally sustainable initiatives. This involves allocating more funds towards projects aimed at renewable energy, conservation, and eco-friendly practices.

2. Relaxing norms to improve the investment climate:

The budget could emphasize creating a more favourable investment environment by easing regulatory restrictions. This includes simplifying bureaucratic processes and minimizing barriers to encourage both domestic and foreign investments.

3. Streamlining land acquisition processes and addressing Right of Way issues:

Efforts to simplify and expedite the land acquisition process, and to address Right of Way challenges is being expected by the power industry. This is crucial for the timely implementation of infrastructure projects, reducing delays and ensuring smoother development.

4. Viability Gap Funding for Battery Storage Energy Systems:

The budget should incorporate measures to provide financial support in the form of Viability Gap Funding for projects related to battery storage energy systems. This is aimed at promoting the adoption of advanced energy storage technologies.

5. Capital Subsidy for Smart Grid implementation and other advanced technologies:

 The Interim Budget should include proposals for providing capital subsidies to encourage the implementation of Smart Grids and other cutting-edge technologies. This subsidy aims to incentivize the integration of innovative solutions in the energy and infrastructure sectors.

6. Reduction in taxes and duties to promote domestic manufacturing:

 The budget should outline a strategy to stimulate domestic manufacturing by reducing taxes and duties. This is intended to make locally produced goods more competitive, fostering economic growth and self-reliance.

7. Boosting R&D and capacity building:

 The Interim Budget should prioritize investment in Research and Development (R&D) activities and capacity-building initiatives. This focus aims to enhance innovation, technological advancements, and skill development, contributing to overall economic progress.

In conclusion, considering the interim nature of the upcoming budget, significant reforms are unlikely. Nevertheless, industry observers will closely monitor the budget for signals indicating the government’s commitment to implementing crucial reforms in the near future, possibly in the detailed budget scheduled for later this year.