VOLUME 9

Issue # 5

C ONTEN T
OWNER :
30
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TRENDS & ANALYSIS

SAUMYA BANSAL GUPTA
saumya.gupta@EQmag.net
36 ENERGY STORAGE
Energy Storage Systems (ESS)
Is India Ready ?
PUBLISHING COMPANY DIRECTORS:
ANIL GUPTA

ANITA GUPTA

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SURENDRA BAJPAI
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DESIGN & GRAPHIC DIRECTOR :

ANKIT PANDEY (Sahil) SOLAR
DESIGNER : INVERTER
ANAND VADIYA Huawei
Collaborates
PRINTING PRESS : in Building
PARTH PRINTING, INDORE an All-
smart PV
Ecosystemy
Disclaimer,Limitations of Liability

12 16
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INDIA INDIA
Honble Chief Minister of IREDA plans to raise up
Uttarakhand, Shri Trivendra to $300 mn via overseas
Singh Rawat inaugurates borrowing
78 MWp Solar PV project by
Rays Power Infra in the state
 41

INTERVIEW

34
Large investors are looking at
the Renewable Energy space
for investments : Mr. Rajeev
Kapoor, Secretary, MNRE
39
INTERVIEW
New Experiments
Needed In Renewables:
Mr. Ashvini Kumar, MD,
Solar Energy Corp.

EES & EV'S

EVS To Be Introduced On Mass
Scale Within Three Years

42
RENEWABLE
ENERGY
Indias Power

48
Struggle And
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
The Emergence with Mr. James, Head
Of Renewable of Sales for SEA &
Energy India, GoodWe Power
Supply Techn. Co. Ltd

59 28
SNEC VISIT FEATURED NEWS
2017 CleanMax Solar to set
up 300 Mw solar power
Huawei capacity this fiscal
Visit Of
Mr.Anand
Gupta, Editor
EQ Magazine

20 23 29 54
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
with Mr.William
Zhou, Vice President,
Sungrow

PV MANUFACTURING
Heraeus Photo-voltaics
releases new generations
of high-efficient
metallization pastes at
SNEC 2017 in Shanghai
PV MANUFACTURING
JA Solars Cumulative
Module Shipments to
India Reach 1GW
EQ NEWS
Pg. 09-29
SOLAR ROOFTOP
Tata Cleantech Capital
funds the largest
private solar rooftop
PRODUCT
system in Mumbai Plans
to fund in projects that Pg. 60-79
will generate around
10 GW of energy in next
2-3 years
 /GSL1000/GSL1250

Shenzhen KSTAR New Energy Co., Ltd.

Tel : +91 7838550852
E-mail : indiaofce@kstar.com.cn
Stock code 002518
Website: www.kstarpower.com

10 EQ May 2017 www.EQMagPro.com

 PV MANUFACTURING

GCL-Poly plans USD-

823m polysilicon
capacity expansion
GCL-Poly Energy Holdings Ltd (HKG:3800) an-
nounced today it plans to build a polysilicon
production complex in the Xinjiang provin-
cial-level autonomous region of China with a
total capacity of 60,000 tonnes.

T
he company expects GCL-Poly Energy will finance GCL-Poly Energy expects to complete
to invest a total of CNY 2 billion of the total invest- the first 20,000-tonne facility by the sec-
CNY 5.68 billion ment, corresponding to the regis- ond quarter of 2018 and to finalise the
(USD 823m/EUR tered capital of the project com- other plant of the same capacity by the
789m) in the project, pany, with internal resources. The end of that year. The relocation of the
which involves the balance will be financed by debt. remaining 20,000-tonne facility from Xu-
construction of new The company is currently holding zhou should be carried out as part of the
plants with a com- talks with parties interested in in- third phase of the project. It is scheduled
bined annual pro- vesting in this project, it said. for completion by the end of 2020.
duction capacity of
40,000 tonnes and The firm believes that upon the completion of the entire project, its annual
the relocation of ex- polysilicon production capacity will reach 115,000 tonnes.
isting facilities from (CNY 1.0 = USD 0.145/EUR 0.136)
Xuzhou.
Source:PTI
PV MANUFACTURING

Jolywood and Herae-

us Photovoltaics form
new R&D cooperation on
future high efficiency
n-type metallization
solutions
Heraeus Photovoltaics, a leading provider of technology
and service solutions for the renewable energy industry,
and Jolywood, a leading manufacturer of advanced solar
cell technologies, signed a strategic R&D cooperation
agreement to develop next generation metallization solu-
tions for n-type mono bifacial solar cells to significantly

J
improve performance and costs efficiencies.

olywood pioneers the PV-industry in high
efficient n-type mono solar cells for bifacial
glass/glass-module applications. It award-
ed Heraeus Photovoltaics last year as its
preferred paste supplier as the company
focuses on high efficiency mono solar cell
architectures. The innovative n-type paste
solutions for frontside and backside met-
allization provided by Heraeus enables
21% frontside and 19% backside cell ef-
ficiencies in mass production. Under the
agreement, both companies share a close
cooperation regarding the development of
silver pastes and a strong supply relation-
ship to further enhance the efficiencies of
bi-facial n-type mono cells, which have
started becoming an industry trend

Mr.Lin Jianwei, Chairman of Joly-

Mr.Andreas Liebheit, President
wood, highlighted, Jolywood is a
Heraeus Photovoltaics, com-
pioneer in the photovoltaic indus-
ments, We are very happy to
try and engaged in such fields as
see Heraeus Photovoltaics and
backboards, cells, and power plant
Jolywood jointly driving innova-
investment. Especially in Type-N
tions in the PV industry. Our coop-
high-performance mono double-
eration is another good example
sided cells, we offer huge ad-
how our technology leadership
vantages. To further develop our
helps our customers to overcome
leading technologies, we are de-
the performance and cost chal-
veloping strong cooperations with
lenges of cutting-edge solar cell
high-quality partners like Heraeus
technologies.
Photovoltaics.

Mr. Liu Yong, General Manager of
Jolywood said, Since the estab-
lishment of Jolywood, we have
been dedicated to exploring the
cutting-edge technologies of the
industry. The silver paste for the front
and back side provided by Her-
aeus Photovoltaic supported the
mass production of Jolywood Type
N double-sided cells last year. By
our development cooperation we
hope to continuously increase the
conversion efficiency of bifacial
cells.
Mr. Weiming Zhang, Chief Tech-
nology Officer, Heraeus Photovol-
taics Global Business Units, adds,
The n-type mono double-sided
cell currently produced by Joly-
wood adopts the whole set of our
SOL9360A new generation n-type
metallizing platform. Our cooper-
ation marks a solid foundation to
further drive joint innovation of next
generation metallization solutions
for high-efficiency solar cell tech-
nologies.

12 EQ May 2017 www.EQMagPro.com

INDIA
Vikram Solar commissions
20MW Solar Power Pro-
ject for Jindal Aluminum
in Karnataka
Vikram Solar, the globally recognized leading PV module
and EPC solutions provider on Wednesday announced
B
the commissioning of a 20 MW Solar Power Project in the
state of Karnataka for Jindal Aluminum Ltd. Bangalore.
eing nestled in Bavihalu, in the Da-
vangere district (about 240Kms from
Bangalore), the project is part of the
State Governments plans to de-
velop 1200 MW (AC) of Solar Power
Projects for the state which will be
implemented in 60 Taluks.
Sprawling in a land coverage
area of 96.99 Acre, the power
generation capacity of this plant is
23000 KWP. For the project, Vikram
Solar has used 73040 modules with
315wp capacity each, offering grid
connectivity of 66KV to the Maya-
konda Sub Station. Vikram Solar will
further provide O&M services for the
project for a period of five years. The
project is expected to reduce carbon
footprint to the tune of 32.3 metric
tons annually.
Source:ANI
14 EQ May 2017
Honble Chief Minis-
ter of Uttarakhand,
Shri Trivendra Singh
Rawat inaugurates 78
MWp Solar PV pro-
ject by Rays Power
Infra in the state
Following the successful commissioning of its 78 MWp Solar PV
project recently, Rays Power Infra has now inaugurated the plant
F
in the state of Uttarakhand.
ollowing the successful commissioning of its
78 MWp Solar PV project recently, Rays Pow-
er Infra has now inaugurated the plant in the
state of Uttarakhand. Honble Chief Minister
of Uttarakhand, Shri Trivendra Singh Rawat
honored the inauguration of Rays Power In-
fras plant in his state. Expressing his grati-
tude,
Mr. Sanjay Garudapally, Co-founder
& Director, Rays Power Infra, said, This
is yet another moment of great pride
and honor for all of us here at Rays
Power Infra. We started the project in
the last week of November 2016 and
accomplished the same in record
period of 90 days. Thats not all; we
not only inaugurated the plant, but also ready to ap-
pease major power necessities in the industrial areas
of Bhagwanpur and Roorkee. Furthermore, what
adds to our excitement is the fact that the vision and
the mission of our organization coincides so well with
the bottom line of the MNRE.
I would also like thank Shri Trivendra Singh Rawat
for showing his support towards the cause of renew-
able energy and honoring us with his presence and
inaugurating our plant in his state. He added.
The project is one of the superior projects by Rays Power Infra,
where local farmers have been made stakeholders by giving them
a source of livelihood. Instead of forcing farmers to sell their land,
Rays Power Infra has devised a unique model, where farmers
can also become a part of the project. More than 1000 farmers
will acquire direct and indirect benefits from this project by receiv-
ing a constant monthly source of income for more than 25 years.
Furthermore, through this model, the company has created a land
bank of more than 2000 acres, where it can implement more than
500 MW. This has enabled them to single handedly accomplish
100% RPO of the state for the next five years.
www.EQMagPro.com
 INDIA

ReNew Power commissions

143 MW solar farm in
Telangana
ReNew Power Ventures Pvt. Ltd, a renewable energy
independent power producer, announced the com-
missioning of its 143 MW solar farm in Dichpally in
Nizamabad district of Telangana.

F
arm was inaugurated by G. Jagadish Reddy,
Telangana Minister for Energy, a release said.
Reddy said the state government is committed to
providing good quality clean power to the industry
and people. Sumant Sinha, Chairman and CEO
of ReNew Power said, over the next few months,
the company will have an installed capacity of 510
MW solar power projects in Telangana and the to-
tal investment will cross Rs 3,700 crore. The Dich-
pally solar farm is the largest solar plant in Telan-
gana and the first one to use tracker technology
at such a large scale, which increases the power
generation by 15-20 percent, a company official
claimed. It was commissioned in a record time of
15 months; 3 months ahead of the schedule, he
further claimed.
Source:PTI
INDIA
Hartek Power bags over
1-GW solar grid EPC projects
in 2016-17, records 733 pc
increase in order size
Having exceeded its target of connecting 500-MW solar
projects to the grid, Hartek Power, one of Indias fastest
growing Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC)
companies based in Chandigarh, has bagged 1,025-MW solar
grid EPC orders in 2016-17, thus registering a phenomenal
increase of 733% as compared to the companys order size in
the previous year when it had secured just 123-MW orders.
T
he 1,025-MW solar grid EPC projects won
by the company, which mark an eightfold in-
crease as compared to the companys order
size in 2015-16, include 30 substation proj-
ects of up to 220 KV spread across 10 states,
including Punjab, Rajasthan, Telangana,
Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh,
Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and
Bihar. Specialising in executing high-voltage
turnkey substations and power infrastructure
projects, Hartek Power will provide complete
turnkey solutions for these projects and exe-
cute post-inverter works covering the design,
engineering, supply, installation, automation
and commissioning of the power plant elec-
trification.
A 100-MW order of 220-KV class in
Telangana is the most prestigious project
bagged by Hartek Power this year.
As a backward integration strategy, the
Hartek Group also has its own manufactur-
ing division, which makes power distribution
products catering to its own projects and to
the requirements of industries, utilities and
independent power producers, like medium-
voltage switchboard panels,
16 EQ May 2017
RaysExperts commis-
sions 5.5 MW Solar pro-
ject for Delhi Metro Rail
Corporation
RaysExperts, Indias leading innovative solar
solutions provider and one of the largest solar
power EPC & Development companies, announced
that it has commissioned a 5.5 MV solar project
for Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). This
will be one of the largest distributed rooftop
solar plants setup across India.
Commenting on the project,
Rahul Gupta, Founder, RaysEx-
perts said, Delhi Metro is the
12th largest public metro system
in the world, serving a total of
160 stations spanning across 213
kilometers, and helping 3 million
commuters daily. However, this
kind of infrastructure also con-
sumes huge amount of electricity
and a major share from the citys electrical grid consump-
tion. As a consequence, it accounts for a large amount of
CO2 gas emissions, and also becomes costlier with each
passing year. Thus, to alleviate such concerns, we were
compelled to find an alternative source that can optimize
DMRCs power consumption, and in the process, reduce
its carbon footprint. The power generated from our solar
installation system has the potential to offset 7200 Tonnes
CO2 every year.
T
he entire power plant is spread across 42
different roofs. The largest installed sys-
tem has a capacity of 725 KWp, while the
average capacity is 131 KWp. Association with
DMRC makes.
www.EQMagPro.com
INDIA
Tata Cleantech Capital eyes Rs
5,500 cr asset book by FY19
Tata Cleantech Capital (TCCL) is looking at growing its asset
book to around Rs 5,500 crore by fiscal 2019, with nearly USD
T
120 billion debt funds expected to flow into the renewable
energy space in the next five years.
CCL, a joint venture between Tata Cap-
ital and International Finance Corpora-
tion, currently has an asset/loan book
size of Rs 2,400 crore. It has funded
over 80 renewable energy projects,
including wind, solar and small hydro
and biomass, with a total capacity of
3,500 MW. We are largely focused
on funding clean energy projects
and the governments vision of 175
GW of renewable power capacity by
2022 gives us an immense opportu-
nity.
It is estimated that USD 120 billion
of debt fund will be required for
these projects and this gives us
the hope that we will be able to
increase our exposure to nearly Rs
5,500 crore by FY19, the com-
panys Chief Executive Manish
Chourasia told PTI here. He said for
the current fiscal, the company is
expecting to nearly double its loan
book to Rs 4,000 crore.
Our primary focus is to fund similar quality renewable assets
and we expect to participate in the funding of around 10,000
MW generation capacity over next 2-3 years, He said though in
the current portfolio of renewable energy projects wind-based
generation has a larger share, going forward solar (both ground
mounted and rooftop) will grow considering the number of
projects being undertaken under various schemes of state and
Central governments.
Recently, TCCL funded a 450 kW solar rooftop project set
up by Avesta Solar at the National Centre for Performing Arts
(NCPA) in the megapolis. TCCL disbursed a total of Rs 2.36
crore for this project. The company is also exploring funding
options for energy efficiency as well as water sector projects.
There are two segments in this energy efficiency space
green buildings and LED lighting.
We are also looking at certain infrastructure projects like
roads, power transmission sectors and as and when there is
good opportunity, we will fund them, he said. Chourasia said
the company is also looking at providing financial and techno-
commercial advisory services to international firms looking to
set up projects in India. We are scaling up our expertise to
provide financial and techno-commercial advisory services
to international firms on how to set up the projects and how
to bid for it. So our expansion will happen through the growth
of our loan book and also through the advisory business, he
added.
18 EQ May 2017
IREDA plans to raise up
to $300 mn via overseas
borrowing
State-run Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA)
today said it will raise up to USD 300 million in the next 18
months from overseas.
We have already filed our applica-
tion. We will be filing for medium-term
note programme in London (stock ex-
change) as well as in Singapore (stock
exchange). We will be raising USD 150-
300 million on both the exchanges,
IREDA Chairman K S Popli
The company will raise a part of the
amount, around USD 100 million, in 2-3
months, he said, adding that the entire
money raised will be utilised for lend-
ing. 100 million (dollar) we would raise
soon and total amount we will raise
within a year and half, he said. On IPO,
I am still waiting for getting approval.
I would not like to comment on it right
now.Thanks to its unmatched expertise
in global energy market and policy
analysis, the IEA can support Indias
efforts and collaborate in its energy
transition. With India, the IEAs growing
family now accounts for about 70% of
the worlds total energy consumption.
The other IEA Association countries are
China, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore
T
and Morocco.
he company had last month said
it will sanction Rs 13,000 crore for
clean energy projects in this fiscal in
the country, vying for around 20 per
cent of the loan market share. IREDA
has sanctioned around Rs 37,000
crore of credit for clean energy proj-
ects in the country so far and has
released around Rs 28,000 crore to
developers, which aids generation
capacity of around 7,000 MW. IREDA
is a public Limited government company established as a
non-banking financial institution in 1987. It promotes and
extends financial assistance for setting up projects relating
to new and renewable sources of energy.
Source:PTI
www.EQMagPro.com
 INDIA

SB Energy commissions 350 MW

solar project in Andhra Pradesh

I
SB Energy Holdings announced the commencement of commercial operation of
its 350 MW solar power plant in Andhra Pradesh.
t is the first operational solar power plant delivered under the Solar
Parks scheme of the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission, SB
Energy Holdings Ltd said in a statement. The plant commenced
operations on March 29, 2017 and was completed 51 days ahead
of the scheduled date agreed in the PPA (power purchase agree-
ment), the statement added. SB Energy is a three-way joint ven-
ture between Japans SoftBank Group Corp, Bharti Enterprises
and Taiwan-based design, and manufacturing services provider
Foxconn Technology Group. The power plant has been designed
Raman Nanda, CEO, SB
and developed by SB Energy using the latest technology and will Energy said, This is our first
supply power at an agreed tariff of Rs 4.63/kWh. It has the capac- step towards powering Indias
ity to produce electricity for over 7 lakh Indian households and is growth with clean energy, and
connected to the grid at 400K/V. we hope to contribute much
more in the future. In support
of the solar and renewable
Mr. Manoj Kohli, Executive Chairman energy mission of the Govern-
at SB Energy said in the statement, This ment of India, SB Energy is
project will contribute substantially to the committed to build 20GW of
Prime Ministers vision of meeting the capacity, it said.
countrys energy demands through clean
renewable power.
INDIA
Amaranto sets up Indian
solar investment arm,
acquires 110MW project
Italy-based renewable energy firm Amaranto Group has
launched an investment vehicle dedicated to acquiring
PV projects in India and has secured exclusive rights
I
to purchase a 110MW solar project in the West of the
country for around US$80 million.
taly-based renewable energy firm Amaranto
Group has launched an investment vehicle
dedicated to acquiring PV projects in India
and has secured exclusive rights to pur-
chase a 110MW solar project in the West of
the country for around US$80 million. The
new arm named Amaranto Solar Power In-
dia aims to raise US$100 million in the first
half of 2017, with a further US$200m by year
end. It is targeting the acquisition of 500MW
by around 2018. For the 110MW plant, which
was tendered by the Solar Energy Corporation of In-
dia (SECI), Amaranto will act as general contractor via
its own EPC company Energia Prima. It will also act as
co-investor and industrial operator of the plant providing
O&M and asset management activities.
The new Indian vehicle is sponsored by
London-based Amaranto Global Asset
Management (GAM) and will be headed
by Rodolfo Bigolin, the firms man-
aging partner and chief executive.
Bigolin told PV Tech that the firm has
another 200MW of projects under due
diligence. Its aim is to participate in
tenders, go into private power purchase
agreements (PPAs), and acquire third-
party developments.
Antonello Amoroso, Amaranto Group
CEO and founder, said: This is another
big step forward in our global expansion;
many others will follow in the near future.
In an always challenging market, boldness
and the perseverance always rewards
the best projects. Amaranto has been
active in India since 2016 through a joint
venture with CPEC Energy with offices
in New Delhi, aiming to develop and build
500MW of solar PV projects in various
Indian states over the next three to four
years.
20 EQ May 2017
Heraeus Photovoltaics
wins EGing Photovoltaic
Technology for new Knot-
less screen metalliza-
tion paste
A
leading provider of technology and ser-
vice solutions for the renewable energy
industry, won EGing Photovoltaic Tech-
nology as the first major customer for its
SOL9641BX Knotless screen metalliza-
tion paste, providing efficiency gains and
performance stability whilst at the same
time reducing the usage of metallization
paste. EGing became the first integrated
photovoltaic manufacturer worldwide us-
ing Knotless screen printing in mass
production of c-Si solar cells. In 2016 the
company started investing in knotless
printing when building additional produc-
tion capacities for mono-PERC cells. In
early 2017 Heraeus successfully adopted
its latest product platform SOL9641B,
which provides superior metallization
contact on ultra-lightly-doped-emitters,
to meet EGings specific requirements for
Knotless screen printing. The resulting
SOL9641BX Knotless screen metal-
lization paste provides efficiency gains
and performance stability at a lower cost.
Apart from the product performance,
EGing chooses Heraeus because of its
strong R&D and process optimization ca-
pabilities as well as of the comprehensive
training program provided to EGing engi-
neers and operators.
Dr. Kaisheng Zhang, Technical Director,
EGing, comments: In mass production
SOL9641BX shows a metallization contact
resistance superior to competing products.
The 0.1% cell efficiency gain we achieved
boosts the performance of our modules up
to 310W. By combining SOL9641BX and
further optimized production processes, we
expect an even higher power output of our
mono-PERC modules.
Dr. Weiming Zhang, Chief Tech-
nology Officer, Heraeus Photo-
voltaics. With the partnership
between EGing and Heraeus, our
SOL9641BX Knotless paste real-
izes the full advantages of Knotless
screens, adds As technology leader in
metallization paste we were able to drive
the innovation of this product in a very
short timeframe.
www.EQMagPro.com
PV Manufacturing

Heraeus Photovoltaics
releases new generations
of high-efficient metalli-
zation pastes at SNEC 2017

H
in Shanghai eraeus Photovoltaics, the worldwide leading
supplier of metallization solutions to the PV in-
Five new silver pastes guarantee substantial efficiency dustry releases five new metallization pastes
at the 11th SNEC International Photovoltaic
boosts for established and emerging solar cell technologies Power Generation Conference & Exhibition
2017 in Shanghai and continues to provide
solar cell manufacturers with high-efficient
solutions for different solar cell technologies.

Unrivalled efficiency boost for PERC cells with SOL9641B N-type 9360A higher efficiency, less paste usage

O T
n mono- and multi-crystalline ULDE and PERC cells
Heraeus brand new SOL9641B series with improved
finger geometry helps boosting efficiencies signifi-
cantly by up to 0.2%. Better metallization contact and less
shading enable this efficiency boost. The metallization paste
demonstrates superior contact behavior on demanding emit-
ters such as ultra-lightly doped emitters (ULDE). In addition,
the organic vehicle system for ultra-fine line printing has been
improved. A unique glass frit developed and produced by ex-
clusively Heraeus Photovoltaics enables a wider firing win-
dow toward lower temperature side. It is tailored to the low
temperature processing needs of PERC solar cells and can be
paired with the award winning SOL326 PERC backside paste
he SOLA9360A breakthrough p+ emitter metallization paste for n-
type cells offers excellent contact formation as well as improved fine
line screen printing capabilities, especially on high mesh, thinner wire
screens and 28 m screen openings. Due to reduced finger width, an effi-
ciency gain of 0.1% can be achieved. Customers have also confirmed higher
efficiencies with significantly less past usage, which translates into a signifi-
cant reduction in a cells cost per watt. In addition, the n-type SOL9360A
provides reduced contact and line resistivity as well as minimized metal-
lization damage and a higher fill factor (0.42) due to high aspect ratio. The
metallization paste is available as double print package in combination with
9622B.
SOL9641AX/BX made for knotless screen printing technologies

to realize higher efficiencies and mass production yield.
All the advantages with the double-print packages 9642A and 9642B
T
he new SOL9641AX/BX series is designed to realize the full ad-
vantages of knotless printing screens, also known as zero degree
mesh screens. Different from the conventional wire mesh this
emerging technology gives the paste more room to pass through. The

E
volutionally upgraded double print packages 9642A printability of SOL9641AX/BX has been perfectly tailored to this spe-
and 9642B carry all the advantages of the SOL9641A cific requirements of knotless screens. It features a unique paste rheol-
and 9641B platforms. Outstanding efficiency gain of ogy, enabling a significant higher aspect ratio on ultra-fine-line fingers
up to 0.1% enabled through improved double-print Ultra- compared to conventional paste used for knotless screens. An outstand-
fine-line (UFL) printability with higher aspect ratio. The ing 0.1% efficiency gain can be achieved and the pastes are perfectly
double-print package also boasts a zero EL defect in mass suited also for black silicon texturing.
production and is also an A+A and A+Bsolution for higher
Fill-Factor and Voc. The SOL9642A package with excellent
adhesion is tailored for mono and multi black silicon wafers as
well as PERC. The 9642B package features a perfectly bal- Metallization As the
anced metallization contact and passivation damage as well
pastes are the technology
as low firing temperatures, making it compatible with mono
core competency leader in met-
PERC.
at Heraeus Photo- allization solu-
voltaics. Since years we partner tions we present an impressive
9641A for challenging black silicon solar cells with our customer to achieve line-up of innovative products

T
he nano-structured black-silicon texturing surface is significant leaps in efficiency at this years SNEC, making it
challenging for metallization pastes. Heraeus Photo- and we continue to do so with a the biggest launch program in
voltaics offers with 9641A for black silicon a specially new generation of metallization the history of our company. All
re-designed formula, which features a unique glass chemistry pastes for different solar cell of our new products have the
and fine-tuned organic media matching to fit to the particu- technologies. With our high-effi- common goal to significantly
lar surface morphology of black silicon. It provides an opti- cient solutions and services, we enhance the overall efficien-
mal amount of silver crystallites on the silicon surfaces for play an important role in making cies of our customers whilst
a well-balanced metallization contact and Voc. Furthermore renewable energies the cheap- at the same time lowering the
it features superior adhesion and reliability and a wide firing est energy source in the near costs per Watt, comments Dr.
window, which makes 9641A black silicon specifically suit- future, says Andreas Liebheit, Weiming Zhang, Chief Tech-
able for PERC colar cells. President of Heraeus Photovol- nology Officer, Heraeus Photo-
taics. voltaics.

22 EQ May 2017 www.EQMagPro.com

 BUSINESS & FINANCE

NTPC Masala Bond, 2017

NTPC Limited (NTPC), the largest power generating company in
India, priced its second INR denominated 5 year Masala Bonds
offering for Rs. 2000 crores, in the international markets on
25th April 2017, becoming the only State Owned Enterprise to

O
tap Masala Bonds market twice.
ffering under the companys US$ 4 billion Me-
dium Term Note (MTN) programme since it was
set up in 2006, taking the cumulative amount
raised under the programme to US $ 3.46 billion
(approx.). Given the strong credentials of NTPC
in the International Bond Market, the issue was
oversubscribed with participation of more than
40 accounts and based on the strong order book
the Notes have been successfully priced at a
coupon of 7.25% payable annually.
The 5 year Senior Unsecured RegS Masala
Bonds of NTPC have been issued at the lowest
yield for any Masala bond by an Indian issuer till
date and have been priced within AAA Corporate
Bonds of equivalent tenor in domestic market.
In terms of geographical distribution, Asia took the
bulk of the transaction at 83% EU area at 14% and
US Offshore 3%. In terms of investor types Central
Bank / Sovereign Wealth Funds comprised 50%, As-
set Managers/ Fund Managers 30%, Banks 14% and
Private Banks 6%. The Company intends to use the
proceeds of the issue to finance its ongoing and new
power projects within India. Axis Bank, Barclays Bank,
ICICI, MUFG, and Standard Chartered Bank were the
bookrunners for the offering. These bonds shall be
listed at Singapore Stock Exchange and London Stock
Exchange.
FEATURED NEWS
Sebi finalises norms for
listing of green bonds
Regulator Sebi has finalised norms for issuance and listing of green
bonds, which will help in raising funds from capital markets for
T
investment in the renewable energy space.
he rules have
been finalised by
the Securities and
Exchange Board
of India (Sebi)
after taking into
account inputs
from the finance
and environment ministries, as
also from the Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy (MNRE), a top
official said. The final guidelines
would be made public soon, he
added. While Sebi had proposed
a new framework for issuance and
listing of green bonds more than a
year ago, the final rules were hang-
ing in balance as the regulator was
awaiting response from various
ministries and departments on pro-
posed norms.
The regulator has now received
comments from the MNRE, while
the inputs from the Ministry of En-
vironment, Forest and Climate
Change were received earlier, the
official added.
A green bond is like any other
debt instrument issued by an en-
tity for raising funds from investors.
However, what differentiates it from
other bonds is that the proceeds
are ear-marked for use towards fi-
nancing green projects. As of now,
there are no standard norms for
green bonds.
SEBI's board had considered
and approval a proposal for issu-
ance and listing of green bonds way
back in January 2016 to help meet
the huge financing requirements
worth USD 2.5 trillion for climate
change actions in India by 2030.
Subsequently, the regulator had
sent a copy of draft circular in this
regard to the Ministry of Finance for
inputs from the concerned govern-
ment departments. Green bonds
can be key to help meet an ambi-
tious target India has of building
175 gigawatt of renewable energy
capacity by 2022, which will re-
quire a massive estimated funding
of USD 200 billion.
24 EQ May 2017
The new norms would also help
the investors take informed invest-
ment decisions and bring in unifor-
mity in the disclosure requirements,
SEBI had said after its board ap-
proved the proposal last year. Fi-
nancing needs of renewable ener-
gy space in the country require new
channels to be explored, which can
also help in reducing the cost of
the capital. Sebi had decided on
the new norms after taking into ac-
count public comments to a draft
paper issued by the regulator in
this regard in December 2015. Is-
suance and listing of green bonds
will be governed by the SEBI regu-
lations for debt securities but the
issuer of green bonds will have to
make incremental disclosures.
These norms would also pro-
vide for requirement of indepen-
dent third party reviewer, certifier
or validator for reviewing, certify-
ing and validating the pre-issuance
and post-issuance process, includ-
ing project evaluation and selection
criteria. However, this has been
kept optional.
The issuer will have to provide
the details of systems and proce-
dures to be employed for track-
ing the proceeds, the investments
made and earmarked for eligible
projects. The same would need to
be verified by external auditors.
According to Sebi, green bonds
can help enhance an issuers repu-
tation and attract a wider investor
base, while benefiting the issuers
in terms of better pricing of their
bonds compared to a regular bond.
Source:PTI
ReNew Power invests
INR 6700 crore to double
its capacity in one year
to cross 2 GW
R
eNew Power Ventures Pvt. Ltd.,
Indias leading renewable energy
Independent Power Producer, re-
cently announced that the compa-
ny has doubled its power genera-
tion capacity in a single years time
to cross 2000 MW (2 GW). In the
financial year 2016-17, the company has made
investments of INR 6700 crore (approximately
USD 1 billion) to add 430 MW of solar and 626
MW of wind capacity. ReNew Power has suc-
cessfully grown to become one of the largest,
fastest-growing and well-funded renewable
energy companies in India. Over the last six
years, the company has increased its capacity
multifold starting from 200 MW in FY 2011-2012
to 2GW as on March 31, 2017.
In April 2016, we were the first
company in India to achieve 1
GW of commissioned renewable
energy capacity. The doubling of
capacity to 2 GW in one year is
a testament of great teamwork
coupled with our commitment
to contributing roughly 10% to
Government of Indias clean
energy growth target. This milestone acquires
special significance due to several reasons our
growth is organic, the capacity has doubled on a
significant base of 1 GW, and we are committed
to focus on high quality projects to create posi-
tive returns for our stakeholders, said Sumant
Sinha, Chairman and CEO, ReNew Power.
With the vision to address the growing energy
needs in an efficient, sustainable and socially
responsible manner, ReNew Power has touched
the lives of more than 1.38 lakh people through
its corporate social responsibility efforts. The
companys currently commissioned projects will
mitigate 110 million tons of Carbon Dioxide in
their lifetime. ReNew Power was founded in 2011
by Sumant Sinha and has been a trusted and
profitable investment proposition for marquee
financiers across the globe like Goldman Sachs
and Global Environment Fund in the US; Abu
Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) in the Middle
East; and Asian Development Bank and JERA
from Asia. In February 2017, the company suc-
cessfully completed a round of path breaking
and innovative fund raising where it raised, in
aggregate, INR 31 Billion through issuance of
Rupee denominated bonds (Masala Bonds) to
an overseas Special Purpose Vehicle.
www.EQMagPro.com

JA Solars Cumulative
Module Shipments to
India Reach 1GW
JA Solar Holdings Co., Ltd. (JA Solar), one of the
worlds largest manufacturers of high-performance
solar power products, recently announced that the
companys cumulative module shipments to India
reached the milestone of 1GW of capacity.
T
he 1GW of mod-
ules shipped to India
represents electric-
ity generation capac-
ity of approximately
1.7billion kWh, which
can reduce carbon
emissions by 1.47 million tons annu-
ally. The companys shipments to In-
dia in 2016 represent significant mar-
ket share in the region. JA Solar also
believes that it held its leading market
share position in the first quarter of
2017. Over the past two years JA
Solar has expanded quickly in the In-
dian market by establishing strategic
partnerships with local developers,
EPC companies, independent pow-
er producers, and other important
partners. JA Solar believes that the
excellent quality and high reliability
of its modules is driving market ac-
ceptance by its partners and custom-
ers. JA Solar achieves this quality by
leveraging its advanced production
lines and extensive R&D laborato-
JA Solar is a world-leading manufacturer of silicon wafers, cells and modules used in solar PV
systems. By the end of 2017, its production capacity for each of these categories is expected
to reach 3 GW, 7 GW and 6 GW respectively. Since its founding, JA Solar has cumulative
shipments of over 20 GW. The company does business in more than 92 countries around the
world. Source:PRN
FEATURED NEWS
ries. For instance, JA Solar is the
first company in the world to apply
double-printing technology to all cell
manufacturing lines. JA Solar also
achieved 100% mass-production of
PID-resistant cells and double-85
anti-PID for all modules. In addition,
its best-in-class components enable
its modules to pass long-term reli-
ability and environmental endurance
tests. JA Solar modules deliver out-
standing performance in the various
harsh environments that characterize
the India market.
India is emerging as one
of the largest PV markets
in the world, and JA
Solar is wellpositioned to
continue to capture mar-
ket share in the region.
We remain focused on
driving the R&D innova-
tion that improves our
products, which results in reliable modules
and professional service to clients, said
Mr. Baofang Jin, Chairman and CEO of
JA Solar.
FEATURED NEWS
SunLink Closes Record First Quarter; Year Over Year
MW Growth Exceeds 80 Percent
SunLink Corporation, a leading commercial and utility-scale solar solutions provider, announced recently a
F
record close of the first quarter for fiscal 2017 with year over year MW growth exceeding 80 percent.
ueled by the companys dominance in design-
ing and manufacturing the industrys leading
ground-mount solutions and the successful ad-
dition of its TechTrack Distributed to the proven
product line, SunLink now leads the industry
in terms of providing the most comprehensive
offering of highly-customized rooftop, fixed-tilt
and tracker solutions and services.
During the quarter, SunLink installed multi-
ple, industrial-scale TechTrack Distributed proj-
ects. The PowerCare solar project services di-
vision installed 12 fixed tilt and tracker projects
and provided O&M and geotechnical services.
Vertex, SunLinks data monitoring and control
software, is being used to support O&M teams
on installed TechTrack Distributed projects as
a valuable tool to help reduce overall mainte-
nance costs.
Solar panel installer Ganges Internationale to
set up Rs. 40 crore facility
Solar panel mounting structure manufacturer Ganges Internationale will expand its facility to cater to project
developers in northern India. The company is looking to expand its existing 1-GW capacity by another 400 MW
T
through the proposed facility.
We are looking at
an investment of Rs.
40 crore to be funded
from internal accruals,
plus term loans. The
facility is likely to be
set up in Pune and will
be online by the end of
this year.
- Mr. Vinay Goyal, CEO, Ganges Internationale,
told BusinessLine
The companys existing manufacturing facility is
in Puducherry. The west coast facility will service
the requirements of clients in north India.
26 EQ May 2017
Were sitting in one of the best posi-
tions in the industry, says SunLink
CEO Michael Maulick. With this
kind of success achieved so early
in the year, were demonstrating
that our evolution from a respected
solar engineering powerhouse to
one of the fastest-growing leaders in
end-to-end energy solutions is being
embraced by our customers. Add
to that our recent expanded line of
credit and investments, were excited
about our ability to continue to inno-
vate in areas such as dynamic design,
grid security and energy optimization
platforms that have the potential
to transform the economics of the
entire energy industry.
Source:Buisnesswire
he company is awaiting clarification on the sta-
tus of solar manufacturing under the Goods and
Services Tax (GST) regime. Goyal said: We
hope that solar manufacturing is zero rated un-
der the GST regime.
The current excise incidence is nil, any in-
crease will be detrimental for the industry and
investment decisions will have to be reworked
accordingly.
Goyal said: In 2011, we had a turnover of
Rs.10 crore. We closed at Rs.210-212 crore
for 2016-2017. Next year, we are targeting
Rs.400-450 crore through our solar
business alone.
GROWING EXPORTS
The company is growing the share of exports in the overall
mix. Goyal said: Today, exports are 8-10 per cent of
our entire volumes. This will jump to around 15-18 per
cent this year. Next year, we will take it up to 25-30 per
cent with the increased volumes. The company plans
close to 1.2 GW of installations in the current year.
Source:BL
www.EQMagPro.com
FEATURED NEWS
When consultants
become entrepreneurs
in solar power sector
L
ike Agarwal, several profes-
sionals with a background
in consulting have moved
to solar power producers.
Some have turned entre-
preneurs. Sachin Jain was
with consulting firm KPMG
in 2014, when Prime Minister Narendra
Modi announced an increase in the target
for installed solar capacity to 100GW by
2022 from 20GW.
I wanted to contribute to
the solar mission and be
a part of the on-ground
action, which I was not
able to do in my consulting
role. - said Jain, currently
the co-founder & CEO Oriano Solar.
Former consultants who have made
the move say those from a consulting
background have wide exposure and can
be more valuable than experienced busi-
ness leaders from other industries, saving
training time on learning nuances of the
sector.
Consulting roles,
irrespective of the vertical
gives one crucial skill
to be a leader it teaches
you that everything
has the scope of
improvement.
-said Vivek Subramanian, co-founder
of Rooftop solar power solutions pro-
vider Fourth Partner Energy.
Subramanian was consulting with Ac-
centure for six years, following that with
a stint as an investor at Avigo Capital.
Rajat Sud, founder and executive
director at Lumeni Consulting, has been
with firms such as PwC and Korn Ferry.
28 EQ May 2017
MP govt, DMRC
The opportunity to
build sustainable
energy solutions ink pact to
and the ambitious
plans of the centre
supply power
lured Rupesh Agarwal
into the solar energy sector,
after he had spent more than 17
years in management consulting.
from Rewa
Agarwal, India head of UK-based
Lightsource Renewable Energy, project
D
one of the worlds largest solar
photovoltaic energy generators, MRC signed the agree-
was earlier instrumental in ment with the parties
setting up and leading renewable concerned at a function
energy practice at consulting on April 17. Under the
firms EY and BDO. PPA, DMRC will get 24
per cent solar power of
Rewa UMSP. The rest of the power
The idea is to get con-
will be supplied to the state, Madhya
sultants to not just create
Pradesh New and Renewable En-
strategy but own and
ergy Department (NRED) Principal
execute it too, said Sud
Secretary Manu Shrivastava told
who has also worked at
PTI.Madhya Pradesh government
industry giants such as
signed a power purchase agree-
NTPC Ltd, National Power (now Engie)
ment (PPA) with the Delhi Metro Rail
and Siemens.
Corporation (DMRC) on April 17 to
supply 24 per cent of electricity gen-
During the initial years, solar power
erated from the Rewa ultra mega
firms focus on raising capital and project
solar project to be set up in the state.
financing. As the firms mature, the focus
shifts towards creating efficiency, cost op- DMRC will sign the
timization and plant efficiency, which is the
agreement with the
stage where the consultants are usually
parties concerned
absorbed.
at a function on
April 17. Under
The demand for talent
the PPA, DMRC will
with consulting back-
get 24 per cent solar
ground is more common
power of Rewa UMSP. The rest of
in the mature solar power
the power will be supplied to the
firms, compared to the
state, Madhya Pradesh New and
start-ups. The talent flow
Renewable Energy Department
is mostly into strategic roles where
(NRED) Principal Secretary Manu
consultants are expected to help
Shrivastava told PTI.
companies scale up -said
Ashwin Saboo, partner at global
Rewa Ultra Mega Solar (RUMS)
executive search firm Heidrick &
project is a joint venture of Solar En-
Struggles Industrial Practice.
ergy Corporation of India and MP
Urja Vikas Nigam, where in both
Bidding for solar power plants requires
parties have 50 per cent stake. The
sophisticated skills at financial modelling
750 MW project will have three units
for revenues and efficienciesand these
each of 250 mw which are being
are available at consulting firms, said
commissioned by as many compa-
Kumar Sasank, who leads industrial prac-
nies- Mahendra Renewables Pri-
tice in India at Egon Zehnder, a global
vate Limited, Mumbai, Acme Solar
executive search firm. The C-suite level
Holdings Private Limited, Gurgaon,
tracks the trend of the larger private sec-
Solanergi Power Private Limited,
tor power/utility sector, he added.
Port Louis, Mauritius, he said, add-
ing they will be operational in 18
There is a temporary
months. Shrivastava said if the pri-
spike in salaries of heads
vate companies fail to complete the
of projects and develop-
project in 18 months, they will be
ment, but that should level
deemed to pay a fine on per day ba-
out as the supply of talent
sis which will come to Rs one lakh
levels out, said Sasank.
per unit.
Source:PTI
Source:Livemint.com
www.EQMagPro.com
www.EQMagPro.com EQ May 2017 29
SOLAR ROOFTOP
Half of Mumbais
electricity can be
generated by solar
power: Report
Mumbai and its suburbs have potential to harness
solar power to generate as much as half the elec-
tricity consumed through rooftop solar photovol-
taic installations, a report based on a first of its
kind of study in the country has suggested.
M
umbais need of electricity is typi-
cally around 3 GW and out of this
roof-top solar installations can
make around 1.72 GW of energy,
the joint study- Estimating the
Rooftop Solar Potential of Greater
Mumbai -carried out by five or-
ganisations National Centre for Photovoltaic Research
and Education (NCPRE), Centre for Urban Science and
Engineering (C-USE) at IIT Bombay, Institute of Electri-
cal and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), Bombay Chapter,
the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) and Bridge to
India has shown.
The National Solar Mission of the
Government of India envisages
an ambitious target of 100 GW of
solar energy to be installed in the
country by 2022. Of this 100 GW, it
is planned that 40 GW would come
up on rooftops across the country.
The report published on Monday is a
step in realising this target, said Secretary of the
Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)
Rajeev Kapoor, as he released the report. Problem
of rooftop power generation in India is not that of
technology. It is about inertia of the companies op-
erating in the field. Hence, this report would help not
only the government, but the private sector as well
and has a potential to be used as a ready reckoner
for solar capacity, he added.
While measuring solar power potential of Mumbai, a
newer, easier method to measure the potential too was
evolved, which can be used to measure solar power
potential of other cities. The team employed a variety
of inputs and techniques, include GIS mapping of all
structures in Mumbai, ward-by-ward division, exist-
ing land use (ELU) maps of BMC and 3D mapping to
discount areas covered by shadowing. The computer-
based analysis was supported and verified by site visits
to some locations and discounting of weak structures
which would not support solar panels. The study also
revealed that Mumbai makes an ideal city for rooftop
power generation as the citys power demand peaks
during the afternoon when the solar power potential is
maximum.
Source:TNIE
30 EQ May 2017
CleanMax Solar to set
up 300 Mw solar power
capacity this fiscal
Energy solutions provider CleanMax Solar plans to set
up nearly 300 MW of solar capacity, including 100 MW of
rooftop installation, this fiscal and will invest around
Rs 1,500 crore for the same.
There is a huge opportunity
in the sector, not just in the
ground mounted solar space
but also rooftop projects. We
are hoping to install nearly
300 MW of solar capacity in
the country in FY 2017-18,
which will include 100 MW
of rooftop installations.
Companys Co-founder
Andrew Hines told PTI here.
C
urrently, CleanMax has an operational capacity
of 80 MW and another 25 MW is under construc-
tion. Out of the total operational capacity, two
projects of 30 MW each are solar farms in Karna-
taka and Tamil Nadu. These 25 MW of projects
will be commissioned in this fiscal itself. With the
additional 300 MW, our total portfolio will reach
to up to 400 MW in FY 2017-18, he said, adding the company
will have to invest around Rs 1,500 crore to achieve the target.
Hines said, many corporates and large institutions are keen on
rooftop solar installations. The rooftop segment is witnessing a
good growth. Its cumulative capacity is currently 1,000 MW. Our
primary focus on the rooftop installations has been corporates
and large institutional clients as it provides a compelling value
proposition for them to become sustainable. We own and operate
the assets for nearly 20-25 years and supply power to the clients,
he said.CleanMaxs rooftop business is pan India with projects in
Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Delhi NCR, Gujarat, Ma-
harashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh,
Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Punjab,
Haryana, among others. It has only two solar farms one each in
Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. We will be setting up the targeted
200 MW solar farm projects in Karnataka, as the states policies
have made it a favourable scenario for us, Hines added. When
asked about the solar tariffs coming down to as low as Rs 3 per
unit and whether that is a concern for developers, he said, the
Rewa project in Madhya Pradesh was where the tariff fell drasti-
cally is one of a kind. The developers were offered various ben-
efits as well as compensations, so they could manage to keep
the prices low. However, he said, though the solar panel costs
have come down, the industry is not likely to see such drop in
tariffs unless there are incentives and compensations offered to
developers. Source:PTI
www.EQMagPro.com
 SOLAR ROOFTOP

Tata Cleantech Capital funds

the largest private solar
rooftop system in Mumbai
Plans to fund in projects
that will generate around
10 GW of energy in next
2-3 years
Tata Cleantech Capital Limited (TCCL) a joint venture between
Tata Capital Limited and International Finance Corporation (IFC),
has funded the solar rooftop project at the National Centre
for Performing Arts (NCPA), established and installed by Avesta
Solar Private Limited (ASPL), in Mumbai. TCCL, the sole lender,
disbursed a total of Rs. 2.36 crore to this project; the largest
solar rooftop project in Mumbai.

D
ue to the close proximity to the sea, the
team had to anticipate and work around
challenges like heavy wind loads and
corrosion damage to the solar panels
while executing this project. The NCPA
plays host to over 600 performances
annually and will stand to benefit greatly
from this given that the project has a
capacity of over 450 KW, with an ef-
fective reduction in Greenhouse
gases to the tune of 15,000
Metric tonnes over its life span
of 25 years. The installation,
which has a life span of over 20-
25 years, is capable of generating
around 6.5 lakh units and is estimated
to save NCPAs exchequer around Rs.
50 lakhs per year. The Project was
monitored from its conception to com-
pletion by Mr. Freddy Talati, CEO of
The Associated Building Company.
Speaking on this project, Mr. Manish Chourasia,
CEO, Tata Cleantech Capital Limited said, The
Government of India has ambitious plans to create
175 GW of renewable energy by 2022. Tata Cleantech
Capital Limited (TCCL) is deeply
invested towards helping achieve this
goal and is pleased to have funded
the citys largest private Solar rooftop
project at the iconic National Centre
for Performing Arts, Mumbai. The
Solar Power system installation at the
NCPA will add to TCCLs exist-
ing suite of projects funded, with a
cumulative renewable energy power
output of over 3.44 GW and a saving of approximately
150 million tonnes of CO2 emissions over its life span
of 25 years. Our primary focus is to fund similar qual-
ity renewable assets and we expect to participate in the
funding of around 10 GW generation capacity over
next 2-3 years. We are exploring innovative funding
options for energy efficiency and rooftop solar sectors
with support from IFC and other Multi-lateral and Bi-
lateral funding agencies.

Mr. Burjis Bulsara, Founder, Avesta Solar said, Avesta Solar is working in line with the Government of Indias
plans to install 40 GW of Solar roof top Projects by 2022 & is looking forward to partnering with TCCL and other
establishments in providing Solar roof-top Solutions.

T A
CCL offers end-to-end business solutions in vesta Solar provides affordable & sustainable Solar
the clean technology space. The company Power Solutions & has worked with the Tata Group
identifies, evaluates and funds projects in re- in successfully implementing solar roof-top projects at
newable energy (wind, solar, small hydro and bio- various buildings in Maharashtra including the Army Navy
mass), energy efficiency (infrastructure, buildings, Building, Elphinstone building, Ratan Tata Institute and the
and industry) and water treatment sectors with the Tata Central Archives, Pune.
objective to support a sustainable living.

www.EQMagPro.com EQ May 2017 31

Policy & Regulation

UNCERTAINTY IN
COMPETITIVE
BIDDING AND
REGULATORY
POWER OF THE
COMMISSION
Author : Aditya Kumar Singh

It has become trend for every state commission to not

adopt tariff discovered through competitive bidding
process and either reject it or direct distribution
companies to renegotiate it on the pretext of consumer
interest. It is widely known fact that there are no
bidding guidelines for procurement of energy from

H
solar energy sources.

aryana, UP and Delhi State Com-

missions are few examples wherein
either Section 63 bidding process
have been scrapped or Honble
Commissions have directed DIS-
COM to enter into further negotia-
tion with selected bidders.
Recently Honble Supreme Court
in the matter titled Energy Watch-
dog &Ors. Vs. CERC& Ors. (Ener-
gy Watchdog) vide its order dated
11.04.2017 made certain relevant
observations concerning Sec-
tion 63 of the Electricity Act, 2003
(Act). Ratio in this case is related
to applicability of force majeure of
change in law concerning change
in any policies of any foreign
jurisdiction. However, we will limit
analysis of Energy Watchdog Judg-
ment to observations of Supreme
Court concerning Section 63 of the
Act. We will try to study whether
this judgment has any impact on
the existing conditions or will this
judgment bring any certainty for
completion of the bid process.

32 EQ May 2017 www.EQMagPro.com


STATUTORY PROVISIONS
T JUDICIAL PRONOUNCEMENTS
here are two provisions in the Act
which govern the determination of tariff
by the Commission, i.e. Section 62 and
Section 63.
Before we dwell further upon the impact
of Energy Watchdong judgment on Section
63 of the Act, we would like to analyze the
statutory provisions.
Section 62 of the Act reads as below:
62. Determination of Tariff
(1) The Appropriate Commission shall
determine the tariff in accordance with the
provisions of this Act for
(a) supply of electricity by a generating com-
pany to a distribution licensee:
Provided that the Appropriate Commis-
sion may, in case of shortage of supply of
electricity, fix the minimum and maximum
ceiling of tariff for sale or purchase of elec-
tricity in pursuance of an agreement, entered
into between a generating company and a
licensee or between licensees, for a period
not exceeding one year to ensure reason-
able prices of electricity.
(b) transmission of electricity;
(d) retail sale of electricity:
Provided that in case of distribution of
electricity in the same area by two or more
distribution licensees, the Appropriate
Commission may, for promoting competi-
tion among distribution licensees, fix only
maximum ceiling of tariff for retail sale of
electricity.
And section 63 of the Act reads
as below:
63. Determination of tariff by bid-
ding process.-Notwithstanding anything
contained in Section 62, the Appropri-
ate Commission shall adopt the tariff
if such tariff has been determined
through transparent process of bidding
in accordance with the guidelines is-
sued by the Central Government.
Therefore, it can be stated that the
above provision make it clear that the
Commission shall adopt a tariff ac-
cepted by the procurer if such a tariff
has been determined through the (i)
transparent process of bidding and (ii)
in accordance with the guidelines issued
by the Government of India.
www.EQMagPro.com
Policy & Regulation
T
he case of MP Power Trading Company Limited Vs MPERC
and Ors. (Appeal No. 44 of 2010) was in relation to adoption
of tariff by State Commission discovered under Section 63
Competitive bidding process. Honble Tribunal has held that as per
Section 63 of the Act, the duty is enjoined upon the State Commis-
sion to adopt and approve the Tariff finalised by the procurer through
the competitive bidding process once it is established that the said
bid process was carried out in a transparent manner and in accor-
dance with the guidelines framed by the Central Government. In
the instant case the Tribunal was of the view that the procurer has
a right to negotiate the price for power with the bidder, and it also
opined that there is no explicit embargo/restrictionimposed onthe
procurer from having rounds of negotiations with the bidders for
reduction of the prices so as to make an attempt to convince them
to agree to the reduced price, which is in alignment with the market
prices in the interest of the consumers at large. In this judgment
Tribunal has quoted a relevant para from Supreme Court judgment in
Food Corporation of India v. Kamdhenu Cattle Feed (1993) 1 SCC
71 which is reproduced herein for ease of reference:
10. From the above, it is clear that even
though the highest tender can claim no right
to have his tender accepted, there being
a power while inviting tenders to reject
all the tenders, yet the power to reject
all the tenders cannot be exercised
arbitrarily and must depend for its valid-
ity on the existence of cogent reasons
for such action. The object of inviting
tenders for disposal of a commodity is
to procure the highest price while giv-
ing equal opportunity to all the intending
bidders to compete. Procuring the highest
price for the commodity is undoubtedly in public
interest since the amount so collected goes to the public fund. Ac-
cordingly, inadequacy of the price offered in the highest tender would
be a cogent ground for negotiating with the tenderers giving them
equal opportunity to revise their bids with a view to obtain the highest
available price. The inadequacy may be for several reasons known
in the commercial field. Inadequacy of the price quoted in the highest
tender would be a question of fact in each case. Retaining the option
to accept the highest tender, in case the negotiations do not yield
a significantly higher offer would be fair to the tenderers besides
protecting the public interest. A procedure wherein resort is had to
negotiations with the tenderers for obtaining a significantly higher
bid during the period when the offers in the tenders remain open for
acceptance and rejection of the tenders only in the event of a signifi-
cant higher bid being obtained during negotiations would ordinarily
satisfy this requirement. This procedure involves giving due weight
to the legitimate expectation of the highest bidder to have his tender
accepted unless outbid by a higher offer, in which case acceptance
of the highest offer within the time the offers remain open would be a
reasonable exercise of power for public good.
EQ May 2017 33
Policy & Regulation
T
his goes on to establish that the bidding process as men-
tioned in Section 63, is to be construed in consonance
with the benefit of public at large, and not otherwise.
The case of Essar Power Limited Vs UPERC and Anr.
(Appeal No. 82 of 2011) was in relation to direction passed in
favour of the Noida Power Company, by the UPERC which
was not in consonance with the principles laid down under the
Act. Essar Power Limited therefore, appealed against the order
in the form of the present appeal. In this case while directing
UPERC to adopt tariff discovered under Section 63, APTEL
made important observations concerning Section 63. Honble
Tribunal in this Judgment held that while invoking Section 63,
the State Commission has the two recourses:
(a) The State Commission is only to verify, under Section
63 of the Act, as to whether the bidding process has been held
in a transparent manner and in accordance with the Govern-
ment of India guidelines or not. If this is not foundto be com-
plied with, then State Commission shall reject the petition for
the approval of the tariff.
(b) Once the process of the bidding is completed strictly in
accordance with the biding guidelines issued by the Central
Government in a transparent manner, then the State
Commission shall adopt the said tariff since it is binding on
the Commission.
OBSERVATIONS FROM CASE
LAWS TILL ESSAR
C
ases up till Essar reflect that the powers of the
Commission are limited under Section 63 of the Act.
The State Commission while dealing with the petition
under Section 63 for adoption of tariff could either reject the
petition if it finds that the bidding was not as per the statutory
framework or adopt the tariff if it is discovered by a transparent
process conducted as per Government of India guidelines.
In MP Power trading case (cited above) Honble Tribunal
in very strong words held that the State Commission should
act within the ambit laid down under Section 63 of the Act
and should not go beyond that as it is neither an Enquiry
Commission nor a Vigilance Commission.
However, interestingly, the MP Power trading case has
allowed negotiation with bidder by the Procurer post
completion of the bidding process.
ENERGY WATCHDOG
T
he Adani group in July 2012 filed a petition before the
Central Electricity Regulatory Commission under Sec-
tion 79 seeking relief, because of the changes in the
Indonesian Regulations that affected the price of exported
coal from Indonesia that had otherwise remained the same
during the last 40 years. The relief sought was in the form of
either discharge from the performance of the PPA or alterna-
tively, evolve a mechanism to restore the Adani Group to the
same economic condition prior to occurrence of the change
in law. In the instant case, Supreme Court held that change in
Indonesian law would not qualify as a change in law under the
guidelines read with the PPA, however, a change in Indian law
certainly would. In this Case, Supreme Court gave important
findings about the role of Commission in Section 63. This can
be considered as one of the first case wherein any judicial fo-
rum has discussed applicability of Section 63 in cases wherein
there are no bidding guidelines. It is relevant to note here that
the Central Government has not till date notified bidding guide-
34 EQ May 2017
lines for the solar sector, all guidelines presently are in draft
stages. In this instant case Supreme Court held that Commis-
sion can use its general regulatory power as outlined in (Sec-
tion 86 (1) (b) or Section 79 (1) (b), as the case may be) while
exercising its jurisdiction under Section 63 of the Commission.
Relevant para of this case are reproduced herein below:
18. The construction of Section 63, when read with the
other provisions of this Act, is what comes up for decision in
the present appeals. It may be noticed that Section 63 begins
with a non-obstante clause, but it is a non-obstante clause
covering only Section 62. Secondly, unlike Section 62 read
with Sections 61 and 64, the appropriate Commission does
not determine tariff but only adopts tariff already determined
under Section 63. Thirdly, such adoption is only if such tariff
has been determined through a transparent process of bidding,
and, fourthly, this transparent process of bidding must be in
accordance with the guidelines issued by the Central Govern-
ment. What has been argued before us is that Section 63 is
a stand alone provision and has to be construed on its own
terms, and that, therefore, in the case of transparent bidding
nothing can be looked at except the bid itself which must ac-
cord with guidelines issued by the Central Government. One
thing is immediately clear, that the appropriate Commission
does not act as a mere post office under Section 63. It must
adopt the tariff which has been determined through a transpar-
ent process of bidding, but this can only be done in accordance
with the guidelines issued by the Central Government. Guide-
lines have been issued under this Section on 19th January,
2005, which guidelines have been amended from time to time.
Clause 4, in particular, deals with tariff and the appropriate
Commission certainly has the jurisdiction to look into whether
the tariff determined through the process of bidding accords
with clause 4.
19. It is important to note that the regulatory powers of the
Central Commission, so far as tariff is concerned, are specifi-
cally mentioned in Section 79(1).
This regulatory power is a general one, and it is very difficult
to state that when the Commission adopts tariff under Section
63, it functions de hors its general regulatory power under Sec-
tion 79(1)(b). For one thing, such regulation takes place under
the Central Governments guidelines. For another, in a situa-
tion where there are no guidelines or in a situation which is not
covered by the guidelines, can it be said that the Commissions
power to regulate tariff is completely done away with?
According to us, this is not a correct way of reading the a fore-
said statutory provisions. The first rule of statutory interpretation
is that the statute must be read as a whole. As a concomitant
of that rule, it is also clear that all the discordant notes struck by
the various Sections must be harmonized. Considering the fact
that the non-obstante clause advisedly restricts itself to Sec-
tion 62, we see no good reason to put Section 79 out of the way
altogether. The reason why Section 62 alone has been put out
of the way is that determination of tariff can take place in one
of two ways either under Section 62, where the Commission
itself determines the tariff in accordance with the provisions of
the Act, (after laying down the terms and conditions for deter-
mination of tariff mentioned in Section 61) or under Section 63
where the Commission adopts tariff that is already determined
by a transparent process of bidding. In either case, the general
regulatory power of the Commission under Section 79(1)(b) is
the source of the power to regulate, which includes the power to
determine or adopt tariff. In fact, Sections 62 and 63 deal with
determination of tariff, which is part of regulating tariff. Where-
as determining tariff for inter-State transmission of electricity is
dealt with by Section 79(1)(d), Section 79(1)(b) is a wider source
of power to regulate tariff.
www.EQMagPro.com

It is clear that in a situation where the guidelines issued
by the Central Government under Section 63 cover the
situation, the Central Commission is bound by those
guidelines and must exercise its regulatory functions,
albeit under Section 79(1)(b), only in accordance with
those guidelines. As has been stated above, it is only in a
situation where there are no guidelines framed at all or
where the guidelines do not deal with a given situation
that the Commissions general regulatory powers under
Section 79(1) (b) can then be used.
CONCLUSION
H
onble Supreme Court in very clear terms held that the
Commission can exercise its regulatory power even
under Section 63 bidding proceeding and it will not
be a mere post office. However, Supreme Court has further
opined that Commission should exercise its regulatory power
within the framework of bidding guidelines, if bidding guide-
lines exist, however in those cases wherein there are no
bidding guidelines, Commission should exercise its general
regulatory power. Before dwelling upon implication of the
regulatory power in competitive bidding process, lets
dwell upon few legal principles/precedents concerning
use of the word Regulate:
i. The word regulate has a wide ambit/scope of interpre-
tation. If the word Regulate does not include the power
to revise/amend/ alter or change the tariff then it could be
argued that the appropriate Commission will not be able to
effectively discharge its functions under the Electricity Act,
2003. The case of Tata Power Co vs. Reliance Energy Ltd.
(2009) 16 SCC 659 was in relation to the power of the ap-
propriate Commission to adjudicate upon disputes between
licensees and generating companies. It was held that the
power of regulation also encompasses fixation of rates.
ii. In Jiyajeerao Cotton Mills Ltd. v. MP Electricity Board
1989 SCC Supl.(2) 52 it was held: The word regulate has
different shades of meaning and must take its colour from
the context in which it is used having regard to the purpose
and object of the relevant provisions, and the court while
interpreting the expression must necessarily keep in view the
object to be achieved and the mischief sought to be rem-
edied.
iii. Also in Shri D.K. Trivedi & Sons v. State of Gujarat
1986 SCC Suppl 20, the Honble Supreme Court held:
The word regulate means to control, govern, or direct by
rule or regulations; to subject to guidance or restrictions; to
adapt to circumstances or surroundings.
iv. In V.S. Rice and Oil Mills & Others v. State of A.P. AIR
1964 SC 1781 it was held that: The word regulate is wide
enough to confer power on the State to regulate either by in-
creasing the rate, or decreasing the rate, the test being what
is it that is necessary or expedient to be done to maintain,
increase, or secure supply of essential activities in question
and to arrange for its equitable distribution and its availability
at fair prices.
v. Further in K. Ramanathan v. State of Tamil Nadu & Anr.
(1985) SCC(2) 116 the Honble Supreme Court held: The
word regulate is variously defined as meaning to adjust; to
order or govern by rule, method or established mode. This is
true in a general sense and in the sense that mere regulation
is not the same as absolute prohibition. At the same time, the
power to regulate carries with it full power over the thing
www.EQMagPro.com
Policy & Regulation
subject to regulation and the power must be regarded as ple-
nary. It implies the power to rule, direct and control, and involves
the adoption of a rule or guiding principle to be followed.
S
upreme Court has given unfettered power to the
Commission in cases of procurement of power by
competitive bidding from renewable
energy sources. Till date there are no bidding
guidelines, Commission can arbitrarily
reject the tariff petition on one
pretext or another
even if the bid-
ding process has
been conducted in a
transparent manner.
However, there are judicial
precedents to restrict the
Commission from acting on
its own terms while exercising
its jurisdiction under Section 63
of the Act. The Commission can further
delay the process and there may always be threat on
cancellation of the bid on the pretext of the consumer interest,
which is not only contrary to the principles of natural justice
but also unfair to the bidder. Supreme Court in conventional
power procurement process has restricted the regulatory
power of the Commission to enquire into matters of transpar-
ency or compliance of the bidding guidelines and in cases of
non-conventional power procurement process allowed the
Commission to use general regulatory power (which includes
but is not limited to increase/decrease the tariff, cancellation of
bid process, to control/govern/amend the bidding process etc.).
Regulatory Power has been termed as an unruly horse, due to
the lack of guidelines governing its use.
However, the Commission while exercising its regulatory
power is expected to keep in mind the object to be achieved
and the mischief sought to be remedied. Consumer interest is
not the sole reason behind enactment of the Act and promotion
of renewable energy, generation by private players, and return
of investment are other paramount considerations behind
enactment of the Act and Commission is to always be guided
by these principles while using its regulatory power. Therefore,
it can be said the powers of the Commission have been at
unrest. Due to a lack of substantiated legislation which outlines
its powers, the commission has at times taken decisions me-
chanically. Maybe the pronouncement of this judgment would
clear the grey areas hovering around this sector. However, bid-
ding guidelines should be promulgated by the relevant govern-
ment authorities at the earliest and till date there is no bidding
guidelines, Bidder should always insist procurer to initiate
competitive bidding post approval of RFP and PPA documents.
Post approval of these documents, Commission is bound by
terms of RFP and PPA and must exercise its regulatory func-
tions only in accordance with those guidelines.
It is to be noted that these measure are only suggested for
certainty and uniformity and to avoid litigation, otherwise
even in absence of bidding guidelines, Commission is man-
dated to exercise its regulatory power in compliance of other
provisions of the Act, Tariff Policy and Electricity Policy.
There are various provisions in the Act and Policies which
directs Commission to develop the market (Section 65 of the
Act), encourage competition, efficiency, good performance
and optimum investments (Section 61 (C) of the Act), promo-
tion of generation of electricity from renewable sources of
energy (Section 61 (i) and Section 86 (1) (e) of the Act).
EQ May 2017 35
INTERVIEW

Large investors are looking at

the Renewable Energy space
for investments : Mr.Kapoor
Indias renewable energy sector is going through a major transformation with record capacity
additions being achieved in the solar and wind power sectors and tariffs falling to record low levels.
The government is working on policies to further firm up the incentive structure for projects, Rajeev
Kapoor, Secretary, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy told Debapriya Mondal and Anisha Dutta
in an exclusive interview. Edited excerpts..
EQ: We have just seen two solar auctions - Rewa
and Kadapa projects - with record low bids. Many
experts attribute this to low module prices and low
interest finance. What is your view?
RK: There is a decline in module prices and that will sustain for
some more time. The expectation is that module prices will fall
further to below 30 cents from the current 32 cents. Modules
constitute the largest cost of the project but there are many other
enablers here which should not be ignored. This includes the
structure of the deal itself how risk has been allocated and can
be shared with parties, a payment security mechanism and also
the security built into solar parks because of availability of land
and transmission infrastructure. All of this has gone into making
very competitive bids. It is not simply a case of module or low
interest finance.

EQ: Is the government going to ensure that these

enabling conditions become part of all the projects
going ahead?
RK: In Rewas case, the deal structure has come as a learning.
Mr. Rajeev Kapoor We have recently finalised guidelines for solar bidding which has
incorporated some of these aspects which bothered investors
Secretary, MNRE earlier. There is a concept of green generation which we have
brought in the new guidelines. For example, what happens when
a developer is asked to back down by utilities? What happens if
there is a non-fulfilment of contractual obligation by certain parties,
particularly the off-taker. There is also a clause in terms of what
kind of compensation should be there in deal structure. So, now
we have a layered security mechanism. These provisions will go
into making the tenders a bit more competitive and they should
reflect in consistent economic bids. With Rewa bids at Rs 3.30
regulated tariff and Kadappa bid out at Rs 3.15, we are reaching a
level where we should have more reasonable bids.

EQ: When would these new solar bidding

guidelines be announced? Would the next round of
bidding be conducted based on these guidelines?
RK: We have submitted the guidelines to the ministry of power
for notification. Hopefully, they will be incorporated in the next
round of bidding.

EQ: How will the government compensate the
companies who are asked to back down their
generations in case of solar and wind?
RK: A committee has been set up in the power ministry to look at what
should be done in such cases. The ministry of power is examining what
kind of incentives should be provided for compliance with RPOs.
EQ: In the solar rooftop segment, the industry argues
the customer has to run from pillar-to-post to avail
subsidy. How do you plan to address this?
RK: The customer does not have to run around. We have so far
sanctioned 2,000 MW of rooftop to the State Nodal Agencies (SNAs)
and also to SECI. We have also empanelled channel partners who
are supposed to implement these projects in either of two modes
EPC or Renewable Energy Service Company (RESCO). The SNAs
finalise the bids and appoint channel partners. In the RESCO model,
the channel partner continues to own the property or the rooftop. He
only borrows the roof to install and sells the electricity. The ownership
is with the channel partner and there is no subsidy to be given to the
rooftop owner and the channel partner will claim the subsidy after he
has installed the rooftop module. In case of the developer mode, the
subsidy application is moved by the owner of the roof and he only has
to go to the state nodal agency. For subsidy, the single point contact
is the state nodal agency which has been allotted a target and has
authorised a channel partner to install the equipment. In RESCO mode,
the customer does not have to run anywhere as it is the responsibility of
the channel partner to get subsidy.
EQ: Talking of rooftop solar, we understand that net
metering is an issue as some customers are not getting
connections because the state discom does not provide
meters through which a customer can feed excess
power to the grid. So, if one wants to sell power to the
grid, how will it work?
RK: Net metering regulations have been issued by all the 36 states
and union territories now. It was an issue around six months back, but
not now. The discoms have to provide the meters as per regulations.
The issue is how quickly dicoms DISCOMs respond to the customers
request and we are expediting that. Through several programmes,
including our World Bank assisted programme, we are setting up
roof top solar cells in DISCOMs so there will be a single focal point
to manage all this. So, we have the regulations in place, all the states
have agreed and all the regulators have issued the notifications. We
just need to improve the procedure and make it more simple.
EQ: Are we broadly on track to meet the target of 175
GW of renewable energy capacity by 2022? What is the
overall estimate of capex?
RK: The cost of setting up a solar power plant currently is around
Rs 4 crore a MW and the estimate for Wind power is also around the
same. We are pushing hard to meet these targets and the plans for
this fiscal would be in sync with the targets. We have a long way to go,
particularly on rooftop. Out of the 100 GW target of solar, 40 GW is
rooftop alone. Rooftop solar capacity at present is 600 MW. We have
sanctioned 2,000 Mw and we are going to the cabinet for 3 GW more.
Today, we have 1,200 channel partners. They have been empanelled,
they have been on the ground for the past five-six months. The moment
they set up their rooftop systems, the capacity will take off. We are now
finalising the targets for 2017-18 with NITI Aayog.
INTERVIEW
EQ: Currently, UP is the only state
with a mini-grid policy. Is there a
policy being planned to get more
states on board?
RK: MNRE had announced a draft mini-grid
policy recently which was in public domain.
We recently had consultations with many
stakeholders to debate the same policy
and we would be finalising that. But Rural
Electrification Corp (REC) already has a mini-
grid policy and they are setting up mini-grids
across states under their electrification policy.
The difference between UPs policy and REC
policy is that in UP, support is being provided
even for areas which are connected to the
grid. We are currently finalising the outcome of
those discussions on our draft. But the biggest
questions in relation to the policy in UP is,
should we support mini-grids in areas which are
already connected to the grids and what is the
most efficient way to do it? The concept of mini-
grid or microgrid came up when it was thought
that it would take years for the grid to reach far-
off places but that is not the case now.
EQ: How is the ministry trying to
ensure smooth availability of funds
for renewable energy projects?
RK: The ministry has an arm in IREDA which
lends funds for RE projects. We are trying to
facilitate investment in the sector through risk
mitigation mechanisms so that foreign investors
or bankers can come and lend. We have a solar
park scheme. The World Bank has come up
and has approved $100 million to be disbursed
through IREDA for supporting solar parks. So,
it has become possible for IREDA to lend to
solar park developers at 8.5 per cent interest
for a longer term. That has been done. We have
tied up with WB and ADB for supporting rooftop
solar projects also. The WB has sanctioned
$600 million to give loan at reasonable rates
for rooftop solar. At the same time, IREDA
is also going for issuing Masala bonds. The
governments bigger role is also to facilitate
private sector investments. And a private equity
fund or an investor looks at how de-risked a
project is. The new guidelines we are working
on will remove the element of risk or at least
make it fair and equitable. The payment security
mechanism is one such way to make the project
more bankable. We are in the process of
notifying these guidelines. The large investors
are looking at RE space for investments.
Source:Economic Times
ENERGY STORAGE

Energy Storage Systems

(ESS) Is India Ready ?
A PRIMER ON ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS AND WHAT INDIA
NEEDS TO DO TO MAINSTREAM THEM
By Sagun Tripathi and Gurpreet Chugh

Shareables
ESS provides an attractive solution to manage the
variability introduced by vast amounts of RE capacity to
be added to the Indian grid.
Storage technologies are numerous; but choice is
governed by their performance characteristics and the
desired application.
Lifecycle costs of batteries are reducing rapidly with
expectations of reaching grid parity in the near future.
India needs to quickly develop an enabling regulatory
environment to allow storage operators to offer multiple
services to improve reliability of the grid.

38 EQ May 2017 www.EQMagPro.com


Energy Storage Will Become
Essential To Balance Indian Grid
I T
ndian electricity grid is in the midst of a
paradigm shift as the country strives to
achieve its target of 175 GW of installed
renewable energy (RE) capacity by 2022.
With such large RE capacity, a key chal-
lenge will be to manage the significant
variability in net demand that will be
introduced in the system.
The net demand duck curve (Figure 1)
for India means that significant balancing
capacity will be required to balance the
renewables.
www.EQMagPro.com
ENERGY STORAGE
I
f the Indian ecosystem indeed meets the stated targets
of RE capacity addition, then during a typical day in
2022, solar power may meet up to 44% of the total de-
mand. In addition, wind capacity of 60 GW will bring about
a variation of up to 8 GW in as little as 5 hours.
Such vast amounts of renewable energy will need to
be backed up by a mix of fast response and high capacity
energy storage to support sudden drops in output and the
morning and evening ramping requirements. In addition,
if there is a drop in demand, there would be a need to
absorb the excess generation for later use and prevent
curtailments.
FIGURE 1: NET DEMAND CURVE FOR INDIAN
POWER SYSTEM IN 2022
F
undamentally, there
are a number of Options to meet variability
sources that can
be used to support the Spinning reserves
variable generation. How- Peaking plants
ever, each source has a Virtual Power Plants (VPPs)
specific purpose and can Demand Response
support only a certain Energy Storage Systems
type of use case with the (ESS)
right market structure.Of
these sources, Energy
Storage Systems (ESS) are the fastest emerging alterna-
tives supported by very strong global R&D efforts and are
likely to come of age much quicker than anticipated.
ESS technologies:
Each has a different role to play
here are a myriad of energy storage systems rang-
ing from flywheels and pumped hydro systems to
batteries, double layer capacitors, and supercon-
ducting magnetic coils. These different technologies vary
significantly in terms of their rated power as well as the
timescale of their response. For example, batteries may
be able to provide backup ranging from minutes to a few
hours, whereas synthetic natural gas or hydrogen storage
systems could provide backup up to a day. The choice
of technology is governed by the desired use case and
its performance characteristics, which make it optimally
suited for certain grid services and less so for others.
EQ May 2017 39
ENERGY STORAGE
Balancing costs of ESS with
stacked value streams
C H
apital costs of ESS,particularly batteries have
declined steadily in recent years largely due to
significant R&D efforts. It is expected that costs
will drop rapidly over the next few years especially as
Electric Vehicles become mainstream and Vehicle
to Grid becomes a reality. Based on cost estimates
published by Lazard in their second Levelized cost of
Storage Version 2.0 analysis, ICF has computed the
lifecycle cost of sample grid scale Lithium-Ion battery
in an Indian context.Based on todays technology, this
comes in the range of Rs.15-18/Kwh (see Figure2).
FIGURE 2: LIFECYCLE COSTS OF LI-ION BATTERY
W
hile the lifecycle cost of grid scale battery
storage is expected to reduce over the next
few years, to justify these costs, it is impor-
tant to look beyond the primary service provided by an
ESS and create the enabling policy/regulatory environ-
ment that allows storage operators to provide multiple
services(Figure 3). For example, analysis of an ESS in
San Francisco by the Rocky Mountain Institute suggests
that its primary service of commercial demand-side
management was insufficient to cover its cost. How-
ever, additional services such as frequency regulation,
resource adequacy, and energy arbitrage, when coupled
with the primary service allowed it to generate sufficient
additional revenue to cover its cost.
40 EQ May 2017
What India needs to do to
main stream ES ?
istorically, the most prevalent storage technology
in India has been pumped-hydro with about 6.8
GW of capacity in operation and under construc-
tion. It was not until last year that SECI invited bids
for grid connected battery storage projects in Andhra
Pradesh and Karnataka. Storage now seems to be
garnering the attention of policymakers with the Cen-
tral Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) coming
out with a staff paper on electricity storage in India in
January, 2017. Although, these are great initiatives, a
lotneeds to be done to bring ESS into the mainstream:
1
Pilots: Pilots of different grid-scale ESS technolo-
gies in Indiato understand operating parameters in
Indian conditions (temperature impact on battery
operation is very significant)
2
Services and benefits to stakeholder: The ser-
vices that can be provided to different stakeholders
(generation, transmission, DISCOMs, consumers,
off-grid, etc.) in the Indian context need to be assessed
and incentivized
3
Enabling regulatory framework: Assessing how
existing regulations like DSM, Time of Day (TOD)
tariffs, ancillary services, etc., will impact ESS
development
4
Cost curve of ESS solutions: It is important to
understand the cost curves (supply side) of the dif-
ferent ESS technologies today in Indian conditions
5
Stacking of services: Creating the necessary
regulatory/policy framework that enables ESS to
provide multiple services (stacking) thereby reduc-
ing per unit usage cost of ESS
ICF's experience in storage
I
CFs team of consultants and
analysts have supported the
analysis and integration of
energy storage across various
applications. We are providing due
diligence support for development
and financing of a large utility-
scale storage project in California.
We have conducted an evaluation
of advanced battery technology
and compared it against alterna-
tive products that were being
developed. ICF was engaged to
assess possible value streams in
the capacity, energy, and ancillary
services for a battery storage sys-
tem within a vertically integrated
utility in the southeastern, U.S.
www.EQMagPro.com
 INTERVIEW

New Experiments Needed

In Renewables: Mr.kumar
With Indias wind power tariffs following the solar route and falling to a record low, state-run Solar
Energy Corp. of India (SECI) has been a catalyst for expanding the countrys green economy. Ashvini
Kumar, managing director of SECI, believes that sub Rs3 per unit tariff for solar will become the new
normal. In a conversation with reporters, Kumar talked about monitoring the quality of solar power
modules supplied to India, initiating solar-wind hybrid projectss auction aimed at round the clock elec-
tricity generation and auctioning 4,000 megawatts (MW) of wind energy power-purchase contracts
every year. Kumar also explained the public sector units growth strategy in new areas such as battery
storage and equipment manufacturing. Edited excerpts:

EQ: What is the way ahead for wind power projects?

Mr. Ashvini Kumar
MD, Solar Energy Corp
AK: If you look at wind, the main problem was how do you
evacuate power because the states were saturated. Their STU
(state transmission utilities) systems had technical limitations
and they had problems otherwise as well. So while everyone was
aware that only interstate evacuation of power can save the wind
sector, no model was coming forward. In that scenario, the ministry
of new and renewable energy (MNRE) took a decision to push (the
idea) and discussed it with the industry. Still, some of the industry
people were not I would say very receptive to the idea and they
had a lot of resistanceI think once there is a tender, a good part
of the industry participated. That also has been really trendsetting.
Now the government thinks around 5,000-6,000 MW has to be
added every year. This year the maximum of 5,400 MW of wind
power generation was added. Through this route, the government I
think wouldnt mind going up to 4,000 MW of (wind) tenders (every
year). Now, MNRE has written to all the states that we will bring
more such wind tenders, you indicate your requirements. They are
now trying to consolidate their demand so that the gap between the
bids and issuing of LoAs (letter of awards) can be reduced. I think
now they are proactive. What has been discussed that may be two
bids of 2,000 MW each shall be called for after a period of five to
six months. If everything goes well, I think thats the kind of vision.
During the power ministers conference in Vizag during 27-28
April, there is a plan that the PSAs (power supply agreements) or
PPAs (power purchase agreements) can be signed for this. If that
happens, then the date for next bid can also be declared.

EQ: You have mentioned that a sub-Rs3.00 per unit

price for solar is possible. What is your outlook on
wind power prices?
AK: Wind is a different game. The reason is, it depends on the
sites alsoPLF (plant load factor). Those kind of things. I think
very large dependence is there on such parametersWhat is the
evacuation cost? What is the PLF? That will determine. I think a lot
of capacity is there.

www.EQMagPro.com EQ May 2017 41

INTERVIEW

EQ: Given the race to the bottom for solar power

tariffs, concerns have been expressed about the EQ: What is happening on the
quality of solar modules being supplied to India? storage front?
AK: Regular monitoring has been happening. In all our tenders, AK: Something will happen on the
we are ensuring through documentation at least that the quality of storage front but the government has
modules and things are good. In fact we are monitoring data also to provide that scale. The solar (power
in terms of performance (of projects) and we very soon plan, not generation) happened because the
with the names of the projects to make that data public also, so government provided that scale
that people know that in Rajasthan, in Madhya Pradesh or Andhra Some off grid projects will happen in
Pradesh, what is the performance of the modules? I think that will storage like in Leh-Ladakh.
all happenEveryone has echoed that. There has to be quality
standards. EQ: It has been stated that
Indias solar power sector
has been helping Chinas
EQ: Have there been any concerns of late? manufacturing sector. What is
AK: In some of our EPC (engineering-procurement-construction) the game plan there?
projects, we have seen that some of the modules were not good.
We asked them to change. And that has happened. AK: I differ on that. One is the oil
sector where you need to have regular
supplies. In this case I have imported
EQ: Which are the new initiatives that you are whatever today that generates for 25
working on? years. So it is not regular. Tomorrow, if
AK: From SECI what we are planning this year is 150 MW solar- China stops also, whatever plants have
wind hybrid projects. We have identified a site in Andhra Pradesh been set up cant be harmed. So the
and now we are doing the DPR (detailed project report) and dependency is only to the extent is initial.
things like that. This is with the World Bank support. Thats there. The second part is; we
as a country have to see that there are
This has been tried at small levels in India but not at this scale. different chains such asmanufacturing
of polysilicon, manufacturing of wafers,
EQ: Going forward what is the scale on which such manufacturing of cells, modules, etc. In
hybrid projects will be constructed? the entire chain, we have to see what
AK: That has to be in giga watts because there are sites which best suits for us for intervention. At what
have got good wind potential also and the solar potential is level we should enter? Whether at the
always there. So, I think thats going to open up. polysilicon level, whether at the cell level,
or whether at the module level is good
enough?
EQ: What is the rationale for such projects?
AK: There are two factors. One is the time of day generation. EQ: Is that on your agenda?
Solar power generation during day time and wind during the AK: Definitely and I would say as a
night also. Second is the month. While during rainy months, country what we see is manufacturing
there is more wind power generation, it is less in other months. and good advanced technology. That
One directly seen benefit is the maximum utilization of the also needs to come to the country. As
(electricity) evacuation system. If you are setting up (an electricity a country, we should have that focus to
transmission network), you are using it only for eight hours, but have better technologies. SECI should
you will be using that more. And also continuous power. help in bringing better technologies
And in this the next element which has to come is storage. through some of its projectsSome new
If you bit? some storage (capacity), it will further improve the experiments needs to be done and seen.
quality of power.

42 EQ May 2017 www.EQMagPro.com

 EES & EV's

EVS To Be Introduced On Mass

Scale Within Three Years
Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday said that the central
government plans to introduce electric vehicles (EVs) on a mass
scale within the next three years. The Minister of State (Inde-
pendent Charge) Power, Coal, New and Renewable Energy, and
Mines was speaking at the 2017 annual session of the Confed-
eration of Indian Industry (CII) here. According to the minister,
the move will support the central governments efforts to phase
out petrol and diesel cars by 2030.

G
oyal elaborated that for mass introduction
of EVs, the central government will build
charging infrastructure and start battery
swapping programmes.
On the central governments UDAY
scheme, the minister pointed out that it is
not only about financial re-engineering
of discoms but also inculcating financial Mr. Piyush Goyal,
discipline. The scheme he explained will
work by capping lending to inefficient
Minister, MNRE, India
discoms.
The minister asserted that the scheme
has zero financial implications on the
central government with no subsidies or
write-offs to discoms.

Speaking at the session on Changing Energy Goyal revealed that India has seen
a 370 per cent growth in renewable-
Economics and India, Goyal stated that 100 based generation capacity in the past
GW (giga watts) of stranded and stressed three years.
assets have been revived through policy
The minister added that well-organised
reforms and resource mobilisation.The min- and transparent competitive bidding
ister disclosed that electric power demand processes have driven tariffs for solar
in the country has increased by 6.5 per cent and wind below Rs 3 per unit and that
the central governments aim is to
during the last fiscal, even as India became ensure electric power is supplied at Rs
power surplus for the first time. 3 per unit irrespective of source in the
medium term.
Source:IANS

www.EQMagPro.com EQ May 2017 43

RENEWABLE ENERGY

Indias Power Struggle

And The Emergence Of
Renewable Energy Author- Vinay Goyal
CEO & Co-Founder
Ganges Internationale

India consumes 309 GW of power and still 300 million people in the country live without access to elec-
tricity. By 2030, Indias energy consumption is expected to rise to 700 GW. The escalated demand will be
not only to due to the growth in the manufacturing industry but also due to electoral promises of providing
full access electricity to all citizens by 2022.

To Achieve This Unimaginable, India Is Placing Its Bets On Both Coal And Solar Energy.

COAL DEPENDENCY High cost of financing

I H
ndia, being a major importer of coal, has doubled
its production targets from its local mines aiming to
produce 1.5 billion tonnes of coal by 2020. The in-
tensity is to reduce its import dependence and to help
the under utilised thermal power plants in the country.
India is also rapidly expanding its coal-fired electricity
generation capacity, with around 113 GW of new ca-
pacity already under construction in addition to the 205
GW of existing capacity. Given the investments under-
way, and the abundance of the resource in the country,
it seems that the coal will undoubtedly continue to play
a dominant part in Indias energy mix.
Renewable energy technology is considered
unstoppable globally. No longer now solar power is de-
pendent on government subsidies for its survival, solar
tariffs are reducing day by day its increasingly beating
fossil fuels on pure raw economics.
After Indias commitment at Conference of the Par-
ties (CoP) 21 in Paris to fight against climate change.
India is setting itself to transform its image completely
with the support of global technological advancements
by leveraging falling price of solar energy, which had
oping to achieve a massive target of 175 GW of renewable
energy, the government had pledged $30 million over five
years to establish the International Solar Alliance (ISA) with
121 nations across the globe, to facilitate easier finance from mul-
tilateral banks for solar projects. In addition, it has also appealed to
the wealthier nations to invest in renewable energy projects. With
Indias exceptional GDP growth rate of more than 7%, global lead-
ers have started thinking over to invest in India.
Japans SoftBank has committed to invest $20 billion in con-
junction with Taiwanese company Foxconn and Indian business
group Bharti Enterprises. French state-owned energy company
EDF is to invest $2 billion in Indian renewable energy projects,
citing the countrys enormous projected demand and fantastic
potential of its wind and solar radiation. Adani too has invested in
the worlds largest solar plant in Tamil Nadu, including Tata Solar
aiming to generate as much as 40% of its energy from renewable
sources by 2025. The World Bank sees this solar impetus as an
investment opportunity and is providing $1 billion to support Indias
ambitious solar initiatives.
Power infrastructure concerns

T
been by 80% in the past five years.
he Green-Energy-Corridor (GEC) is part of the countrys plans
The government plans to achieve 175 GW of renew-
to boost transmission capacity to enable a seamless flow of
able energy capacity by installing 100 GW of solar
electricity from clean electricity producing states to consuming
(utility and rooftop), 60 GW of wind, 10 GW of biomass
states that face power shortages. The GEC Project, spearheaded by
and 5 GW of small hydro electric projects by 2022. So
the Power Grid Corp with support from the Asian Development Bank
far, in the last two-and-a-half years, the solar installed
and Germanys KfW Development Bank, is expected to enhance the
capacity is expanded by 200%, from 3,000 MW in
electric grids transmission capacity. The network is designed to trans-
March 2015 to 9,500 MW by end of December 2017.
mit 55 GW of solar and wind power being generated in eight renew-
According to reports, solar is getting so cheap, so
able energy - rich states to load centres in the countrys northern re-
fast, that it will quickly represent a Lions share of new
gion. Parallelly, as per Integrated Power Development Scheme (IPDS)
electric-power generation. Assuming battery technol-
policy, intends to reduce AT&C losses, strengthen sub-transmission
ogy continues to improve, very soon, solar will start to
and distribution networks and fix admin losses through IT integration.
replace some fossil-fuel plants. According to the new
Of Rs 12,700 crore to be invested on lines to transmit power from
governments draft 10-year energy blueprint, 57% of
solar parks, the inter-state portion of the transmission investments
Indias total electricity capacity will come from non-
will cost Rs 8,000 crore, while intra-state lines will require another Rs
fossil fuel sources by 2027. (The Paris climate accord
4,745 crore. India will also receive a soft loan of about 1 billion for the
target was 40% by 2030).
corridors development from the KfW Development Bank.

44 EQ May 2017 www.EQMagPro.com

 RENEWABLE ENERGY

Looking forward to 2017, with much of investments on ground, it is expected that new capacity
addition of over 9 GW (up 90% over 2016) and up to 8 GW of new utility scale capacity allocation
by NTPC, SECI and states including Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu to come up. As
other international markets including China, Japan and Europe slow down, India will remain one
of the fastest growing markets around the world moving fast to achieve the targets set.

The government needs to align the incentives and bring in more friendly new domestic
manufacturing policy to boost the industry and to ensure that the dream becomes a reality.

Will Renewables Win The Grid Parity Race ?

The Indian Government under the leadership of Prime Minister
Modi, has set a target to achieve 175 gigawatts (GW) renewable
energy capacity by 2022. This ambitious target was presented initially
in the UN in 2015, to display Indias proactive approach, contribution
and willingness to reduce carbon emissions. Out of the 175 GW power
capacity, 60 GW has been allocated to wind, 100 GW has been
allocated to solar wherein 40GW is for solar rooftops. Lately, in order
to achieve these targets and attract investments and developments in
wind and solar sectors in the country, various forms of subsidies and
tax incentives have been made available by the authorities.

Grid Parity: The moot point Rooftop solar and large scale
renewable showing impressive growth

T
he greatest surprise in the recent years has

been the speed at which the price of solar pan-
els has reduced. Soon India will witness cost
parity. As technology will keep getting cheaper, this
trend is likely to be continued. Moreover, with the in-
volvement of new subsidies and incentives, the ques-
tion is whether these low tariffs can help in achieving
grid parity which remains a moot point.
Grid Parity is a term used to describe the point
in time when generating electricity from alternative
sources of energy like solar and wind, costs more
or less similar to the traditional sources. This means
that India will reach grid parity when solar or wind
can generate electricity at the same rate or equal to
thermal power generation and is touted as the turning
point of energy generation scenario in the country.
According to few research papers, solar tariffs fell
below INR 5 (USD 0.07)/ kWh, gaining parity with
other sources of greenfield power. Falling cost has
been instrumental in boosting solar demand from the
power companies despite total power demand staying
relatively weak throughout the year. New bigger ca-
pacities are expected in 2017 and would be attracting
even more competitive tariff bids. Solar power is likely
to become cheaper than or equivalent to conventional
thermal energy prices soon and would reach Rs 4 per
unit in early 2017. Factors such as decline in capital
costs, technological advancements, increase in ef-
ficiency, shift towards large scale solar projects and
lower return expectations by developers, are positive
influences on the growth of the solar industry.
T
he year 2016 has been extremely eventful for
the renewable energy sector in India with most
key indicators growing 2-3x over last year.
The country added total solar capacity of 4.9 GW,
an increase of 101% over 2015 and crossed the 10
GW cumulative installed capacity mark. New tenders
were floated for about 9 GW of grid connected solar
projects including 900 MW for rooftop solar systems.
In a recent bid won by a leading organization
which resulted in an unprecedented low tariff start-
ing at Rs 3 per unit, has drastically stunned the
pricing dynamics of the Indian solar industry. With
an intend to install 14.5 megawatts (MW) of solar
rooftop plants across 10 states, they are now offer-
ing power from these plants at tariffs starting at Rs
3 per unit, which is the lowest bid anyone has ever
made in India.
The offer of low tariffs is a significant develop-
ment. With tariff underRs.5 per unit, debate would
continue on the sustainability of low tariffs. However
the foreign investors and big domestic corporate
houses have started warming up for the huge invest-
ment potential in the renewable energy space sens-
ing economic viability with lower capital cost and
reduced counter party risk.
The convergence of clean energy targets, strong
government-backed policies and subsidies, desire
for energy decentralization and continued technical
advancements & innovation are the driving factors
that will lead to solar global grid parity by 2020.

www.EQMagPro.com EQ May 2017 45

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

EQ: Please describe in brief about your

company, directors, promoters, investors, its
vision & mission
HD: WAAREE Energies Ltd is the flagship company of
Waaree Group, founded in 1989 with headquarters in
Mumbai, India. It is Indias one of the largest solar PV
module manufacturing capacity of 500 MWS at its plant
in near Surat, Gujrat. Waaree Energies is amongst the
top players in India in providing EPC services, Project
development, rooftop solutions, and solar water pumps
and also as an Independent Power Producer. Waaree
has its presence in over 20 locations nationally and 68
countries internationally. With a vision to provide high
quality and cost-effective solutions across areas of
operations in emerging as well as developed markets
while leveraging on the goodwill and experience of the
group and Management expertise, we are committed for
continuous improvement in the quality of our products &
services.
EQ: What is the size of your company in terms
of manufacturing capacities, growth chart,
future expansion plans.
HD: We started out with a 30 MW module manufacturing
line in 2007, which has grown to a module manufacturing
capacity of 500 MW, which we are in the process of
upgrading to 1.2 GW within FY 2017-18.
EQ: What are your plans for India, your view
on the GOI target of 100GW Solar Power by
2022
HD: We, as part of the Indian Solar Industry, believe
in and are fully committed to the Government of India
target of 100 GW Solar Power by 2022. We plan to
participate in this in our various roles manufacture and
supply modules, participate in EPC tenders as well as
provide third party EPC services for utility scale projects,
continue and strengthen our presence in the rooftop
segment as well as on case-to-case basis participate
as developers/investors in solar power projects. As part
of our commitment towards the 100 GW target, we have
introduced floating solar solution, to enable efficient use
of the water-body surface for solar capacity deployment.
Our manufacturing capacity roadmap has been planned
to grow lock-step with the overall market with capacity
upgradation to 1.2 GW within a year.

46 EQ May 2017 www.EQMagPro.com


EQ: Whats your commitment
towards the solar sector in
India
HD: We, as Waaree Group, have been
involved in the solar sector from its
inception having started in 2007 with
a 30 MW module line, and at 500 MW
operational lines as of now having
upgraded as per the need of the time.
We plan further expansion and looking
at a module manufacturing capacity of
1.2 GW within this Finayear.
In addition, we are a leading EPC
service provider with more than 300
MW of executed projects, as well as
leading provider of module mounting
structures.
As part of commitment and
involvement in the solar sector in India,
we have introduced innovative solutions
such as floating solar as well as flexible
module technology, in association
with technology partners with proven
expertise.
The Waaree group takes its
position as an industry leader as a
solemn responsibility to work towards
the overall benefit of the industry.
Readiness of skilled manpower is
one of the important enablers for
the ambitious growth targets of solar
industry. We have taken proactive steps
taken through association and tie-ups
with local institutes of learning as well
as under Skill India initiative.
EQ: What is your target/
expectation of module supply
in 2017-18
HD: Keeping in line with the growth
potential in solar industry and Waarees
continuing position as the leading
Indian solar module manufacturer, we
expect to supply modules upwards of 1
GW in FY 2017-18.
EQ: Kindly highlight your
strengths and USP which
gives your company a distinct
advantage as compared to
your competitors.
HD: The strength of Waaree Group
lies in its upstream and downstream
www.EQMagPro.com
integration hence ability to offer
solar solutions through a veritable
one-stop shop. With industry accepted
and awarded pole position in module
manufacturing, we bring continual
innovation, with robust flexible modules
the latest addition to our offering. As
one of the leading names in EPC, we
bring our experience of over 300 MW
of executed projects to deliver projects
with the right quality at the right time at
the right price. With varied solutions in
BoS, be it inverters, module mounting
structures, tracker solutions or floating
solutions.
EQ: Present some noteworthy
projects, case studies of solar
plants built using your solar
modules
HD: A few noteworthy projects built
using our solar modules are NTPC
50 MW Project in Andhra Pradesh
(Executed by Sterling & Wilson), AAI 15
MW (Executed by Sterling & Wilson),
Azure 100 MW, GAIL 5 MW and many
more.
EQ: What are the top 5 markets
for your company in the past,
present and future
HD: The top markets for our company
has been India, Europe, North America,
South America and MENA region. We
look towards the emerging African
market with interest as well.
EQ: Please share information
of some new orders in hand.
HD: Keeping in line with our
expectation of crossing 1 GW of
module supply this financial year, we
have entered FY 2017-18 with 200 MW
of module order pipeline.
EQ: What will be the cost,
technology trends in solar pv
modules
HD: The technology shift expected
would be towards higher efficiency
with 21% efficiency the new norm. We
foresee module technology to move
towards Zero White Space (ZWS),
Bifacial Modules, increasing share of
mono-crystalline modules and PERC/
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
EQ: Solar Trade Wars :
What is Your View ?
HD: There has been predatory
pricing and dumping of solar
equipment (below the domestic
market price). While many solar
markets have countered this
with anti-dumping duties, the
Indian market remains open to it,
with the lowest MSP of modules
offered by certain overseas
manufacturers in India, compared
to any other territory, including
their own domestic market.
Indian Government had adopted
Domestic Content Requirement
(DCR) tendering to counter this.
Unfortunately this was perceived
and labeled by WTO as preferential
treatment, thus limiting DCR
tenders to Government projects
alone With the domestic market
of the overseas manufacturers
resorting to dumping is itself closed
to Indian manufacturers through
high duties, and preferential
market creation is curtailed by
WTO, the avenues open to address
these issues are two-fold: firstly,
introduce government incentive
scheme for domestic module
manufacturer thus enabling
more competitive pricing by Indian
companies, and secondly introduce
restrictions on importing of solar
modules from countries known to
be engaging in predatory pricing.
PERT technologies. Glass-to-glass
modules with longer module life and
stability is another technology that
would increase in share. The trends
towards modules with more number of
busbars would continue with multi Bus-
Bar modules expected to be the new
norm. Instead of commenting on cost
trends, we would like to state that in the
solar PV modules space, value rather
than pure cost should be and will be
what is considered in the Indian solar
markets continuing efforts towards
lower LCOE, having moved beyond the
grid parity paradigm.
EQ May 2017 47
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
EQ: As a module
manufacturer provided
25 years warranties, is it
backed up by warranties by
cell manufacturer, materials
manufacturers ?
HD: As a module manufacturer we
provide 25 year warranties. We do
not get back-to-back warranties by
cell/materials manufacturer. We
ensure adherence to the quality
expected from us, through rigorous
quality control and in-house testing
both for inwards material as well
as for finished products. We follow
the strictest production guidelines
and the best International Industry
Standards and Practices with
all major national & international
certifications.
EQ: Comment on the
warranty claim rate,
rejections, replacements
etc
HD: We would like to give full
credit to our factory team with
their rigorous quality control
and adherence to world-class
standards, that we have a
clean slate when it comes to
warranty claims, rejections and/or
replacements.
48 EQ May 2017
EQ: As a manufacturer,
kindly share your plans to
foray as developer or equity
investor in solar pv power
projects.
HD: Waaree Group has already
made significant forays as developer/
equity investor in solar PV power
projects, with projects developed
in joint venture with a leading PSU,
with projects won under competitive
bidding and developed in Andhra
Pradesh.
We keep a close watch on and
are fully engaged in the current
and upcoming tenders and will
participate - on case to case basis
- directly or through consortium
route. We believe our expertise, as
solar module manufacturer as well
as a leading EPC service provider,
would stand us in good stead in this
competitive environment.
EQ: The recent aggressive
bidding by various
developers keeping Solar
Tariffs in the price range
of Rs.3.3-4.34 per kWh in
various Solar Tender. Whats
your view on the viability,
Costs & timeline pressures,
Resource Challenges
(Materials, ManPower,
Execution, Grid Connection,
Land Possession) etc
HD: The recent aggressive bidding
in Solar Tenders have breached the
grid parity target set by the Indian
solar industry.
The challenge in front of the
solar industry as a whole is the
successful execution of these
projects and development of quality
assets to service these PPAs. The
successful bidders would definitely
have done the pre-bid due diligence
and cost projections based on the
industry trends, but a relook would
be advisable at each stage till actual
COD, to ensure the viability of the
projects.
An important piece of the
development puzzle is readiness
of land & evacuation in solar parks
in line with the project timelines.
This needs the coordination by
and between the Solar Park
Implementation Agencies and the
Transmission Utilities, with support
from the state Government. The
next piece is the optimization of
capital cost modules, BoS and
EPC without any adverse effect on
the quality of assets. We believe the
Indian solar market has matured to
such level that this can be achieved
through collaborative discussions
and use of combined purchasing
power.
EQ: How has RUMS Bid
changed the dynamics for
Solar Projects in India. What
are the challenges, threats
and new opportunities you
see emerging now
HD: The RUMS bid and the
subsequent solar park bids have
changed the dynamics of solar
projects, by moving beyond the grid
parity paradigm, with solar tariffs
in line or lower than the projected
APPC tariffs expected at the time the
PPAs go-live.
The storm cloud along with this
silver lining is the perceived threat
to signed/allocated solar PPAs with
higher tariffs. This is something that
the regulators and the Discoms have
to address to avoid any adverse
effect on the investor confidence in
solar India. There have been reports
of winners of certain earlier bid
processes being asked for further
discount on the discovered tariff on
the basis of the low tariffs reached in
RUMS and other subsequent bids.
On a positive sidenote, an
interesting opportunity that has
arisen from solving the grid parity
problem, is the spotlight shifting
to socket parity problem for the
off-grid and rooftop market. We look
towards this segment for the next big
headline that propels interest in solar
from an industry topic to common
man discussion.
www.EQMagPro.com

EQ: What has delayed the
new upcoming tenders by
NTPC/SECI and what are the
learnings and take aways
from RUMS Bids
HD: Many reasons have been assigned
to the delay/reduction in speed of
allocation of Solar India.
Though GST applicability and the
non pass-through of increase due
to the same in PPA tariffs may be
an important reason, we believe the
reduced ready inventory of plug-n-
play ready solar parks and Discom
readiness to sign and adhere to PPAs
is a more pressing reason.
Any analysis of the solar bidding/
auction results would make it clear that
higher developer confidence hence
higher aggression and consequently
lower tariffs have been possible where
the land and evacuation risks have
been suitably mitigated through well
designed solar park mechanisms.
With the ready inventory of solar parks
close to being completely allocated,
the Government has taken steps in the
right direction by doubling of solar park
targets to 40 GW by 2020, as well as
increased importance to involvement
of private entrepreneurs for solar park
development.
Discom readiness to sign and
adhere to PPA tariffs discovered
through the bidding process is an
important factor. With the inevitably
decreasing tariffs in bid processes due
to aggression fuelled by lack of near
term visibility of bankable tenders,
there have been instances where
Discoms/offtakers are discussing
further discounts on tariffs reached
through competitive bidding especially
in non solar park tenders. This is an
alarming trend which may affect the
market sentiments adversely.
EQ: What are the expectations
from Government / NTPC / SECI
/ RUMS Team
HD: We, as part of the Indian Solar
Industry, in our roles as equipment
manufacturer, EPC service provider
and developer, expect continued
support from Government Policy and
the various Government agencies.
From the Government on policy level
www.EQMagPro.com
we expect:
- Demand Assurance Clarity on
DCR and Make-In-India Module based
tenders to have assured domestic
demand for manufacturing industry
From the tender issuing and
management bodies such as SECI
and NTPC we expect
- Visibility of Tenders Tender
Calendar for the next 3-5 years
tender dates and scheduled
commissioning dates not clustered but
spread across to ensure optimal use of
production and execution capability
From the solar park facilitation
bodies such as RUMS team, we
expect:
- Visibility of timelines for readiness of
land and evacuation arrangements for
solar parks
- With the target for solar parks doubled
to 40 GW, we look forward to clear
calendars of solar park readiness and
tender release. High resolution and
correct survey information on the land
as well as availability of irradiation data
through on-ground weather stations put
in place as soon as possible will enable
suitable planning hence costing by the
developer and EPC communities.
EQ: Are the developers betting
on Modules Prices or Interest
Rates ?
HD: In keeping with the aggression and
competition in the solar tenders, the
tariff bids are based on forward looking
modules prices as well as interest
rates. The developer community has
been making increasingly aggressive
projections on the capital costs,
especially module costs. As these are
based on reduction of cost projections
without any direct reference to
forward costs of silicon, wafers, cells
or modules, there is considerable
risks involved. We are sure that
the developer bidding is done with
complete due-diligence of industry
trends as well as post-win action to
achieve the projected costs, we look at
the current allocated capacity pipeline
with involvement and concern as
industry participants and partners.
EQ: Pre-Bid Tie up : Would you
suggest prebid tie up ?
HD: Given the aggressive bidding
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
being seen and required in Indian
solar market, we believe pre-bid tie-
up at both module supply as well as
EPC level should not just be seen
as prudent practice by the developer
community but made a credential
requirement by the tender management
agencies. This would ensure there is
minimum abandonment of prestigious
projects, and the aggression is suitably
tempered with ability and commitment
by the various stake-holders.
EQ: Roof Top Solar : What is
your plans for Roof Top Solar
Market, Government Target of
40GW rooftop solar by 2022
(Please comment) , Various
Models such as RESCO/BOOT/
PPA/EPC etcOpportunities
& Challenges, Policies &
Regulations etc
HD: Rooftop solar has finally moved
from kW scale to MW scale. We are
highly committed to our efforts in
this segment, where value based
competition will flourish rather than
purely financial engineering fueled
aggression. With more than 40 MW
of rooftop projects we are working in
all the flavors of rooftop solar be it
pureplay EPC, BOOT Model, RESCO
model or the more innovative structures
being discussed.
We expect this segment to further
heat up. Hitherto, this has been an
Unorganized sector, with no central
repository of opportunities unlike
MW scale ground mounted segment,
other than tenders coming from
SECI, CEL and NVVNL. This creates
an opportunity for coordinators and
intermediaries: Local team provides
leads and services & National level
EPC teams bring expertise and
financial strength.
Most states have come out with
conducive rooftop solar policies, but
the industry still encounters roadblocks
in terms of maximum capacity allowed
for grid interactive systems and speed
of regulatory approvals.
Gross metering, thus monetization
of large roofs for those consumers who
have low or seasonal consumption
patterns is the next big change the
industry awaits.
EQ May 2017 49
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
In Exclusive Talk With
Mr.James From GoodWe
- Head of Sales for SEA & India,
GoodWe Power Supply Techn. Co. Ltd
50 EQ May 2017
EQ: How much Inverters have you supplied to India
till now, what is the target/expectation in 2017-18
James: We mainly focused on EU, AU and other markets in the
past. With the expansion of our monthly capacity to 200MW and
completion of required IEC certificates, we have officially set
India as our globally strategic market, where we have put in place
local service team &warehouse, and in due time to build Indias
branch and production line to help hit our target of establishing
GoodWe as a very leading brand here in India within 2017-18, as
the accomplishment we have made in above mentioned markets.
EQ: The recent aggressive bidding by various
developers keeping Solar Tariffs in the price
range of Rs.3.3 4.34 per kWh in various Solar
TendersWhats your view on the viability, Costs &
timeline pressures, Resource Challenges (Materials,
ManPower, Execution, Grid Connection, Land
Possession) etc
James: We well understand how price sensitive Indian solar
market is and are ready to take that challenge. The market is
huge, so we will continue to enhance the level of localization by
recruiting more local service and sales people to respond faster
and more effectively to customers needs. We are very seriously
evaluating the feasibility and approach to set up local production
line here. GoodWe has been a worldwide reputable name for
string and hybrid inverters. Our production and shipment have
been scaling up steadily to an industry leading level, so without
any compromises on materials and quality, we are able to make
our inverters cost effective enough to service our strategic
partners here in India.
EQ: Kindly enlighten our readers on the
performance of your Inverters in India in various
geographic locations, customer feedback.
James: Every model of GoodWe inverters is designed after
thorough study of market trend and customers preferences.
Before entering into Indian market, we conducted variously
rigid tests on our inverters under extremely hot and humid
environment that Indian market features. Besides having
traditionally popular models from single phase 1kW up to three
phase 75kW, we also come to India with such unique models as-
1) 50kW and 60kW with 400Vac in 4MPPT, which proves greatly
popular for Indian commercial and industrial rooftops
2) Smart Three Phase 4kW/5kW/6kW/8kW/9kW/10kW, eyeing on
the fast growing residential net-metering installations.
www.EQMagPro.com

EQ: Present some noteworthy
projects, case studies of solar
plants built using your solar
Inverters
James: In last August, we won a
5.6MW project for TT Circuit Assen in
Netherlands, after several rounds of strict
testing procedures and comparisons
among many brands from the world.
EQ: Please describe in brief
about your company, directors,
promoters, investors, its vision &
mission
James: GoodWe was founded in
2010, with major investors such as JXT
group- an Apply and Samsungs main
supplier for mobile electronic connectors,
and also some investments from the
government.
EQ: What is the size of
your company in terms of
manufacturing capacities,
growth chart, future expansion
plans, revenues, shipments,
ASPs, financial figures,
James: GoodWe is gaining increasing
www.EQMagPro.com
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
EQ: What are the top 5
markets for your company
in the past, present and
future
James: Presently our top
5 markets are Netherlands/
Australia/UK/South America, and
of course China. No surprise that
Indian market is catching up fast,
making it safe to say that very
soon India will be among the top
5 markets for GoodWe.
EQ: Kindly comment of
Energy Storage as a game
changer, its technology,
cost trendsetc
James: GoodWe is a pioneering
inverter company for energy
storage technology. We have
been the leading bi-directional
hybrid inverter supplier across
the globe since 2014, especially
popularity across the world. Our to Europe and Australia. With the
manufacturing capacity has been more advantages in energy storage,
than tripled as it was two years ago, to a we are now entering into smart
current level of 200 MW per month. As a home energy management
well established name in those traditional sector, which we see would
markets such as Europe and Australia, largely shape the future of the
we are enjoying quite stable growth. industry.
Now with the great contribution from
emerging markets, India, South America,
South East Asia to be mentioned, we
are poised to having more growth in the
coming years.
EQ: What are your plans for
India, your view on the GOI
target of 100GW Solar Power by
2022.
James: Previously, many people would
think its a too high target to hit. But
during the past years development, we
all see what huge potential the market
holds.When I travelled in different
regions of India, many blackouts were
encountered, so the country is in real
needs of alternative energy. Solar is
keeping becoming more affordable. We
are sure that India will continue to be one
of the most important engines for global
solar market development.
EQ May 2017 51
solar inverter

SNEC 2017
Huawei Collaborates in Building
an All-smart PV Ecosystem
Huawei collaborated in showcasing smart PV solutions at SNEC 2017 from April 19
to 21. Huawei chose building an all-smart PV ecosystem as the theme and shared
the latest innovations and practical tactics across three exhibition areas: FusionHome
Smart Energy Solution, FusionSolar Smart PV Solution 5.0, and Energy Internet.

FusionHome
ushers in a new
era of smart
home energy.
On April 19, Huawei
unveiled the Fusion-
Home Smart Energy
Solution which is orient-
ed to user experience,
makes energy manage-
ment visible and simple,
and classifies energy
use scenarios. This
demonstration attracted
thousands of visitors
from the PV and media
industries.

T
he one-tap experience from the FusionHome
Smart Energy Solution makes life much easier.
Module-level, rapid shutdown technology protects
people and property by preventing a direct, high voltage
current from being produced on the rooftop. The Smart
PV Controller uses more silicon and less copper along
with Huawei patented topology technology. The more
precise power conversion and control technology, such
as the intelligent five-level technology, makes the AC
output waves more smooth and improves efficiency by
0.5% to 1.6%, reaching up to 98.6%. The European
weighted efficiency of the inverter is 98%, while the
weighted efficiency of the smart PV optimizer reaches
99%, which is 0.4% higher than competitor products.

52 EQ May 2017 www.EQMagPro.com

 solar inverter

F
usionHome converges the information
and energy flows of smart homes. Smart
devices communicate with each other
over wireless communication modes, such as
enhanced WiFi and 4G networks. Consequent-
ly, the production, storage, and consumption
of power from home energy are managed in a
visualized way. People can allocate energy ide-
ally while enjoying the comfortable life, allowing
for self-sufficient households that can achieve
full digitization and close-to-zero consumption.

FusionSolar Smart PV Solution 5.0 is

simpler, more cost-effective, and more
reliable than its predecessors.

Smart trackers, PV controllers, 4G LTE wireless

dedicated network transmission, smart PV plant
management system, and FusionSolar smart
O&M cloud center were all showcased at the
FusionSolar Smart PV Solution 5.0 exhibition
area. These components work together to build
a complete smart PV ecosystem to suit large-
scale ground-mounted PV plants, distributed
PV plants, and PV plants for poverty alleviation,
agriculture, and fishery.

O
n the basis of FusionSolar 3.0, Fu-
sionSolar 5.0 focuses on an all-smart
ecosystem, continuous innovation,
simplifying the system, reducing the invest-
ment, and improving the system security and
reliability. FusionSolar 5.0 inherits the outstand-
ing fuse-free, natural cooling, and 2-input and
1-MPPT designs. By teaming up with industry
partners, Huawei integrates multiple intelligent
advanced technologies, including the smart
tracker convergence, smart box-type transform-
er, smart I-V curve diagnosis, smart O&M, and
smart component (optimizer) in FusionSolar 5.0.
The line loss on the entire PV array decreases,
the energy yields increase continuously, and the
O&M cost and initial investment reduce.

www.EQMagPro.com EQ May 2017 53

solar inverter

H Huawei is committed to enabling

uawei FusionSolar smart
O&M cloud center man-
agement system centrally and promoting the development of
configures resources based on
cloud computing, big data mining, the energy internet.
and the mobile 4G cluster schedul-
ing system. This makes PV plants
manageable, visible, and control-
lable. As a result, PV plants can
exist relatively unattended and
faults can be intelligently identified
and reported.
In addition, mobile remote O&M
and emergency command also
help improve day-to-day opera-
tional benefits throughout the PV
plant lifecycle. Huawei FusionSolar
cloud center management system
has been widely used in global key
accounts, including SPIC, GCL,
CMIG, JinkoSolar, Akcome, Ton-
gwei, CMN, and Zhongli Talesun,
and helps them improve O&M ef-
ficiency by more than 50%.

A
s the environmental problems become increasingly serious, the replace-
ment of fossil fuels with renewable energy is an irreversible trend. Huawei, a
leading global ICT and network energy solutions provider, has always been
involved in digital information as well as electrical and electronic technologies.
Based on intelligent power production, power consumption, and interconnection, as
well as cloud sharing, Huawei combines cloud computing, big data, IoT technology,
and wireless communication with renewable energy and is committed to enabling
and promoting the development of the energy internet. Huawei remains committed
to cooperating with industry partners to build an open energy internet ecosystem.

SNEC is one of the biggest international PV tradeshows,

attracting worlds top PV enterprises. The products and
technologies showcased at this event are the most cut-
ting-edge and innovative in the industry. Huawei Smart
PV Solution received many awards, including the two
most prestigious: the Ten Bright Spots Award and Terawatt
Diamond Award, owing to its advanced technologies,
innovations, and reputation.

54 EQ May 2017 www.EQMagPro.com

 solar inverter

Indias top customers visited

Huawei during SNEC 2017
D
uring the SNEC ex-
hibition in Shang-
hai, the VIP cus-

H
uawei invited Indias top PV shareholders and EPC companies to partici- tomers were involved in
pate in the SNEC exhibition and visit the inverter product line in Song- high-level talks with the
shanhu base, Huawei headquarters in Shenzhen, the Smart PV Gala
Dinner, and 100 MW PV plant for fishery in Huzhou.
leader of the Network En-
In Songshanhu base, customers visited the 18 MW rooftop-mounted PV plant ergy Product Line about
showcase, inverter product line, FusionSolar Smart O&M system, and the auto- the development trends
matic logistics system. in the PV sector. PV mod-
ules are 4 to 6 meters
higher than the fish pond
surface, which ensures
sufficient irradiation and
safe passage for staff.
This is the largest PV
plant worldwide and uses
the full Huawei Smart PV
Solution.

W
ith openness,
cooperation, and
mutual benefit in
mind, Huawei will remain
customer-centered.
Looking to the future,
Huawei will fully leverage
partner advantages to
build an open and harmo-
nious all-smart PV eco-
system. Huawei will con-
tinue to share resources
Huawei headquarters in Shenzhen and the GCTC lab across the industry,
helping to forge more in-
novative and competitive
A tour of Huawei headquarters in Shenzhen, including the solutions. This will in turn
F1 exhibition hall and GCTC lab, took place against a accelerate the grid parity
backdrop of beautiful blossoms and green scenery. The F1 process and promote the
exhibition hall demonstrates Huaweis global leadership in sustainable development
of the PV industry to
the ICT field, referencing cutting-edge technologies, in- build a better connected
novation, and R&D to inspire confidence and long-term PV world.
partnerships. The GCTC lab demonstrates Huaweis strin-
gent requirements on products and technologies along with
first-class quality control capabilities. Verified by GCTC
has become a mark of Huawei quality.

www.EQMagPro.com EQ May 2017 55

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

In Exclusive Talk With

Mr.William Zhou
EQ: How much Inverters have you supplied to India
till now, what is the target/expectation in 2017-18
WZ: Over 1GW has supplied to India. Over 2GW will be supplied
to India in 2017.
EQ: The recent aggressive bidding by various
developers keeping Solar Tariffs in the price
range of Rs.3.3 4.34 per kWh in various Solar
TendersWhats your view on the viability, Costs &
timeline pressures, Resource Challenges (Materials,
ManPower, Execution, Grid Connection, Land
Possession) etc
WZ: Low prices, high reliability and high efficiency is the
requirement of todays solar industry. Typically, we witnessed
3-4% increase in efficiency and 3-4% reduction cost. So, we could
expect the solar tarrifs may continue to go down by 5-8% year-on-
year. The cost of production may continue to come down. Bigger
factories and lower cost of manufacturing will ultimately lead
to reduction in tarrifs over the next few years, but also keeping
sustainability, reliability and efficiency in mind.
VICE PRESIDENT,
EQ: Kindly enlighten our readers on the
SUNGROW performance of your Inverters in India in various
geographic locations, customer feedback,.
WZ: Sungrows high efficiency inverters known for its design
engineering, quality & reliability have been widely accepted by
Indian market. 2016 has been a great year for us, in terms of
acceptance from most of the leading IPP & EPC companies which
has enabled us to achieve an order booking of 1.3 GW,1000 V
container solution and 70 MW ,1500 V indoor central inverters.
These orders compliment the installed capacity of 200MW in India.

EQ: Present some noteworthy projects, case studies

of solar plants built using your solar Inverters
WZ: Indian market have been very favorable and great support
& cooperation have been received by Sungrow for its products.
We signed 1.3 GW by September 2016 and will finishing 1GW on
ground by June 2017, with big solar players like Renew Power,
ACME, Mytrah Energy, Tata Power, Sterling & Wilson, Harsha
Abakus, Hero Clean Solar, etc.

56 EQ May 2017 www.EQMagPro.com


EQ: Please describe in brief about your company,
directors, promoters, investors, its vision & mission
WZ: Sungrow is aglobal leading PVinverter system solution
supplier with over 31GW installed worldwide as of December
2016.Founded in 1997 by University Professor Renxian Cao,
Sungrow is a global leader in research and development in solar
inverters, with numerous patents and a broad product portfolio
offering PV inverter systems as well as energy storage systems
for utility-scale, commercial, and residential applications. With a
20-year track record of growth and success, Sungrows products
are available in over 50 countries, maintaining a market share of
around 25% in Germany and 10% globally.
EQ: What is the size of your company in terms of
manufacturing capacities, growth chart, future
expansion plans, revenues, shipments, ASPs,
financial figures.
WZ: Sungrow factory takes an area of 93,936 m2 and has an
annually capacity of 18 GW PV inverters, A new PV inverter
factory taking an area of 188,717 m2 is under construction which
will lift the annual production capacity to 36 GW within one year.
Sungrow is a global leading PV inverter system solution supplier
with over 31GW installed worldwide as of December 2016.
www.EQMagPro.com
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
EQ: What are your plans for India, your
view on the GOI target of 100GW Solar
Power by 2022
WZ: India is one of the key focus for the whole world
and Sungrow as well. And being one of the top 3
brands in solar inverter industry with appreciable
response from customerswe will be finishing 3GW
orders by 2017. Also, the present solar industry is
such that the prices are going down and customers
are seeking more reliablility, Sungrow will be able to
fulfill with the requirements and when we talk about
GOi target of 100GW by 2022, Sungrow will be sharing
30-35%. With a 20-year track record of growth and
success, Sungrows products are available in over 50
countries, maintaining a market share of around 25% in
Germany and 10% globally.
EQ: What are your plans for Manufacturing
set up in India, the opportunities and
challenges in manufacturing in India
WZ: India is a growing market and world is focusing
over it for investments. Sungrow India also have
some ideas to setup the manufacturing units. Even
a Sungrow team from china has visited India in the
same regards and explored some regions. Also, GST
implementation will be playing a role for the same, so
we are keeping an eye over GST implementation and
manufacturing units setup plans will be taken care
accordingly.
EQ: Briefly describe the various
technologies and its suitable applications
such as Central Inverter, String, Micro
Inverter, 1500V, Outdoor, Container
solutions etc..
WZ: Sungrow offers a wide range of products which
include central inverter/ container solutions for 1000V &
1500 V and string inverters for the fast-growing Indian
market. SG1000, SG 2000 & SG2500 (1 MW, 2 MW
& 2.5 MW respectively) are our offerings for 1000 V
outdoor central inverters solutions. The future demand
for 1500 V range of central inverters are catered
by SG1250HV, SG1500HV (1.25 & 1.5 MW indoor
inverters) backed by SG2500HV & SG3000HV(2.5
MW & 3 MW) Containerised solutions. SG33KTL,
SG50KTL & SG60KTL are being promoted in the string
inverter arena. All the offered products in India boosts
a maximum efficiency of 99% making it complementing
to its engineering & reliability.
EQ May 2017 57
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

EQ: How much is your R&D budget as % of

your sales / profits
WZ: Over 3% of R&D/Revenue ratio.

EQ: What are the top 5 markets for your

company in the past, present and future
WZ: China, APAC (excl. China and India), EMEA, India
and NA are top markets for Sungrow.

EQ: Technology road map in terms of

1500V , micro inverters, upcoming game
changes technologies.
WZ: In 2016, Sungrow has unveiled the worlds highest
output string inverter rated at 125kW (1500Vdc) and
became the first PV inverter supplier that provides both
central and string inverters rated at 1500Vdc. Featured
1500Vdc central inverters are SG1250HV, SG1500HV
(1.25 & 1.5 MW indoor inverters) backed by SG2500HV
& SG3000HV(2.5 MW & 3 MW) Containerized
solutions.

EQ: Explain various guarantees,

warrantees, insurance, certifications,
test results, performance report of your
inverters.
WZ: Sungrows products are certified for applications
worldwide. The company has invested its own in-house
testing center approved by UL, CSA, TV Rheinland,
and TV SD.

EQ: Kindly highlight your product,

technology & company USPs, distinctive
advantages etc
WZ: Founded in 1997 by University Professor Renxian
Cao, Sungrow is a global leader in research and
development in solar inverters, with numerous patents
and a broad product portfolio offering PV inverter
systems for utility-scale, commercial, and residential
applications. With a 20-year track record of growth and
success, Sungrow possesses a dynamic R&D team
which accounts for over 30% of the companys total
workforce. The company has also invested its own
in-house testing center approved by UL, CSA, TV
Rheinland, and TV SD.
In 2016, Sungrow has unveiled the worlds highest
output string inverter rated at 125kW (1500Vdc) and
became the first PV inverter supplier that provides both
central and string inverters rated at 1500Vdc.
EQ: Whats your commitment towards the
solar sector in India
WZ: India is one of the most focused markets for
Sungrow in the world. Sungrow India currently has
its sales team operating from Bangalore, Gurgaon&
Mumbai, backed by a well experienced technical
support team. A very strong, well structured &
established service team with PAN India presence
ensures the dependency and our sustainable growth in
India.
EQ: What will be the cost, technology
trends in solar inverters
WZ: The cost will continue to decrease and there is a
trend of transferring to 1500Vdc technology.

58 EQ May 2017 www.EQMagPro.com


Huawei Visit Of Mr.Anand Gupta,
Editor, EQ Magazine
All these years I have been curious about a big change in the
Solar Inverters Market. Witnessing a big shift in the philosophy and
reality of using String Inverters instead of Central in very large Utility
Scale Grid Connected Solar PV Power Plants, a New Star which was
unheard before 4 years and with their technology leadership, thoughts
on O&M became the No.1 Inverter Company in the world.
Y
ou guessed it rightI am talking about
Huawei which has not only changed the dy-
namics of choosing String Inverters instead
of Central for huge PV Projects, but also
about O&M and getting maximum power
with least hassels during the plant lifetime.
We all have heard it that Huawei in a
short span of time became No.1 Inverter
Company in the world.I would like to
thank Huawei for enlightening me with
the next level concepts and making me
understand. WHY?
Huawei FusionSolar Global Shipping
volumes were 10.5 GW ranking 1st Place in
the world in both 2016 and 2015. . In a 100
MW Plant, Huawei solution delivered 2.02%
higher yield as compared to centralized so-
lution for the same period. Huawei Inverter
www.EQMagPro.com
SNEC VISIT 2017
availability reached 99.996%. The worlds
highest altitude (4300m) plant is operat-
ing reliable without any power derating. In
unsmooth and unevenly-oriented mountain-
ous areas, multi-MPPT reduces mismatch
impact while increases yields by 4.6% AND
50% less maintenance.
I promise, its an amazing experience
so see an elephant running so fast and
why and how it is able to achieve this.
Huawei offers Fusion Solar Smart PV
Solution. With Global Automated O&M
offers Centralized Management, Low Duty
on Sites & Automated O&M. It offers a very
simplified system structure, no inverter
housing is required, no DC Combiner, no
fuses, natural cooling design. PV String is
attached by Huawei Smart PV Controller
(IP65 Protection) and the data access is
created by Huawei Smart Array Controller.
Through the Sub-Station, Data is transmit-
ted through Huawei Plant Management
System using 4G LTE Wireless Network to
the Cloud Management System and Center.
All these deliver high reliability and mini-
mal on-site inspection. String Inverters are
small size and hence easy to transport.
EQ May 2017 59
SNEC VISIT 2017
PLC Technology & 4G LTE Wireless
transmission required no optical fibers and
RS485 cables are required. It effectively
reduces the PID Effects especially in High-
humid areas with Huawei Anti-PID patent
technology. Short DC Path with less DC
Nodes reduces the fire risk caused by DC
Arcing. Huawei string inverters required no
heavy machinery or concrete foundation or
inverter room reduces construction costs
and time and enables quick and easy instal-
lation. While the advanced Multi-MPPT
algorithm increased the power yields and
enables 0-touch maintenance and inspec-
tion free installation. Especially in mountain
area the Multi-MPPT Design effectively
reduces string mismatch due to shading
or different panel orientations delivering a
higher yield. Fusion Solar 3.0 comprises
of the various key components by Huawei
such as Smart PV Controller (commonly
known as String Inverter), Smart Array Con-
troller. Cloud Management Center, Plant
Management System, 4G/LTE & Smart
Security System. Its a very interesting
blend of Solar Inverters with ICT/IOT which
creates a unique set of USPs & Advan-
tages. It was very enlightening to see huge
Utility Scale Grid Connected PV Plants like
1GW Site, Floating Plants, Solar-agriculture
PV Plants, Plants on Fisheries, Worlds
largest Solar rooftop PV plant of 300MW in
China and around the world such as Japan,
UK etc.. Huawei stands out in the bid of the
1 GW Chinas Leading Project in Datong,
Shanxi, winning more than 50% of the
60 EQ May 2017
share. , which only chooses the most re-
markable cutting-edge technologies among
all the Chinese solar companies.
Huawei solution enables PV plants on
farm land as it minimizes foundation con-
struction to retain the land for farming, and
keeps farmers safe from electric shocks re-
sulting zero impact on daily agricultural ac-
tivities. Huawei establishment in Shenzhen
has a huge campus with many buildings
comprising state of the art manufacturing
facilities from USA, Germany, Japan and
lifeso much sophisticated manufacturing
facility using minimum labor/human inter-
vention, automatic work flows, and Huawei
factory building has a huge 17.5 MW Solar
PV Rooftop Plant.
Comparing Fusion Solar Smart PV
Solution with a traditions solution offers
various advantages such as more modules
per string, less DC cables, eliminates use
of DC combiner box. Power line carrier
communication(Hi silicon chipset inside
uses less copper and more silicon) instead
of a communication cable, data logger
and fiber ring making traditional solution
difficult for locating fault. Huawei solution
offers advanced data analysis, O&M with
fusion cloud platform, support data storage,
management & analysis and continually ac-
commodates the increase size of the plant.
It enables unattended plant by wireless dis-
patching system, Smart I-V Curve diagnosis
and quick diagnosis for entire strings as
opposed to traditional system offering only
simple monitoring.
www.EQMagPro.com
IP65 design offers high
protection, fully sealed
design which are adaptable
to harsh environment such
as heavy sand, salt-mist,
high humid, High tempera-
ture & low temperature /
snow areas. Numerous
advantages and features
such as protection against
dripping water even when
its tilted up to 15 degrees,
spraying water, splashing
water, water jets, heavy
seas, effects of immersion,
submersion. Dustproof In-
verter with anti-fist, anti-
finger, anti-screwdriver,
anti-insect, anti-sand&
anti-dust. All this coupled
with natural cooling, no
fuses, no external fans and
strong durability coating of
the inverters provided 25
years reliability.
Lets understand the
natural cooling based on
fusion & innovation of heat
dissipation development in
wireless devises. Huawei
inverter works well in des-
ert with ambient tempera-
ture up to over 50 degrees,
as well as rooftops. Smart
PV Controller applies
continuous innovation and
optimized heat dissipation
technologies from Huawei
heat design platform of
120 exporters. There is
proper component layout
and even heat dissipation
under the conditions of 50
degrees Celsius& rated
power output, heat dis-
sipates evenly on both I/O
and power board with max
temp of 80 degrees C.
The Inverter
Product Line

W
ith optimized tooth pitch and
tooth thickness with inte-
grated heat sink and better
heat dissipation with external induc-
tor shell. Well Huawei has achieved
natural cooling through years of
experience in developing heat dis-
sipation for Huawei ICT Devices.
Lets say when there are 8 strings
of PV panels and there is shading
on the 8th string. As the traditional
system as 1-2 MPPT/MW, one string
mismatch will affect all strings and
causes power loss. Remaining 7
Strings will give 90% output and 8th
string with shading will give 50%
output. Now with Huawei system, the
8th string with shading will deliver
50% output and just the 7th string
will deliver 90% output. Remain-
ing 6 strings will all deliver 100%
output. It is enabled by Multi-MPPT
resulting in higher yields with about
100MPPT/MW and hence multiple
MPPT minimize string mismatch
and optimize power yields. Accurate
MPPT algorithm instantly responds
www.EQMagPro.com
SNEC VISIT 2017
to rapid weather change.
Fusion Solar enables data col-
lection and PLCC Within the array
with smart PV controller, smart array
control unit (comprising of Power line ABOUT HUAWEI
communication, wireless PoE Charg-
ing of CPE, SmartLogger and Anti-
With USD 75.1 Billion Revenue in
PID. At SNEC PV Expo, Huawei un-
2016, Operations in 170+ Coun-
veiled the technology roadmap with
tries, more than 180,000 Employ-
5.0 Solution comprising of 70KTL-
ees, 129 ranking in Fortune Global
1100V, 12 Inputs; 6 MPPTs and Max
500, 80,000 R&D Employees, 36
Efficiency of 99.3%. Huawei also
Joint Innovation centers, 15 R&D
unveiled Residential Smart PV Solu-
Centers, accumulated 57,632
tion with 3-5 KTL (Max Efficiency
pcs chinese patent applications,
98.64%), Residential Power Stor-
39,613 overseas patent applica-
age, 375W, External wall mounted &
tions and 90% of total are inno-
imbedded power optimizer with max
vative patents, invests 14.6% of
efficiency of 99.5%. Winner of red
sales revenue in R&D and No1
dot award 2016 and iF Design Award
in international patent applica-
2017, HUAWEI SUN2000L Smart
tions. With 9 Global R&D Centers
Energy Solution, has a very light-
of Network, 10+ Years R&D in
weight aluminum housing designed
Power, 6 Smart PV R&D Centers.
with passive cooling. Indoor and out-
In India, Huawei inverter shipmen-
door assemblies can be carried out
tis more than 1GW.
in a time-efficient and user-friendly
manner. It takes less than 15 minutes
to finish the installation.
EQ May 2017 61
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DuPont Photovoltaic Solutions Highlights Solar Innovations

Description
Solar Panels From DuPont Field
Testing Program
Solar panels from DuPonts
extensive field testing pro-
gram were on display at the
booth to demonstrate how
PV material selections can
impact system performance
and lifetime.

Description
Module Accelerated sequential
testing ( mast)
Current testing standards
used by the industry are
insufficient to accurately
determine reliability of so-
lar panels and components
over time, and this is why
the industry should adopt
DuPonts rigorous Module
Accelerated Sequential
Testing (MAST) procedure,
which better determines
the long-term performance
of systems by simulating
real-world conditions and
by combining and repeat-
ing multiple aging stresses.

Description
Tedlar PVF film
laminated metal
roofing panel pro-
vides long-lasting
protection for
rooftop PV distrib-
uted systems, re-
ducing the cost of
maintenance and
module replace-
ment.

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DuPont Customer Collaboration Showcased at SNEC
Description
Solamet Interconnect Paste, an innovative new
product designed with unique chemistry for PV
applications as a replacement for traditional sol-
der materials and adhesives. It enables advanced
cell and module assembly with more flexibility
and convenience in use. A shingled cell module
assembled by Jinchen Solar Equipment using
Solamet Interconnect Paste was on display at
DuPonts booth. Also featured were DuPont
Tedlar PVF film, the only backsheet material
proven to protect solar panels in the field for
more than 30 years even in extreme conditions
Taiwan Solar Energy Company (TSEC),
which specializes in manufacturing high
performance, top quality mono- and poly-
crystalline silicon solar cells and modules,
demonstrated how it has observed 21.15
percent cell efficiency and module power
output as high as 305 Watts (60 pcs) in its
V-Series mono PERC modules using Sol-
amet PV20A.
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Another successful Solamet PV20x adop-
tion comes from REC, a leading vertically
integrated solar energy company. The
latest REC TwinPeak 2 Series, 60-cell
multicrystalline solar panel, rated up to
295 Wp, delivers at least 20 Wp more per
panel compared to standard 60-cell multi-
crystalline panel. The new achievement is
result from the combination of REC Twin-
Peak technologies and DuPont Solamet
PV20x, which enables efficiency enhance-
ment on multi PERC.
DuPont Solamet PV20A, the companys
latest front-side silver paste, is designed
specifically for P-type solar cells. Solamet
PV20A is designed to be used in both Lightly
Doped Emitter (LDE) and Passivated Emitter
Rear Cell (PERC) solar cell construction and
is ideally suited to maximize efficiency for the
most demanding conventional and PERC archi-
tectures while also ensuring reliable production
performance.
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Ginlongs new string

inverters improve
energy transfer smartly
and safely.
Product Outline :

G
inlong Corporation has launched new
high performing, safe and smart PV in-
verters, both for single and three phase
applications, the Solis 4G and Solis HV series.

Problem :

W
ith both domestic and large-scale de-
velopment of distributed generation
increasing, ensuring the efficient op-
eration, smooth energy transfer, reliability and
smart-control has been at the forefront of the Applications :
latest model design.
Full range from domestic
1kW installations through to
Solution : 50MW++ utility connections

T
he Solis-4G single phase series with high
switch frequency technology makes the in- Platform:
verter smaller and smarter. Single-board
Models comply with
design reduces the risks caused by the connector
AS4777.2:2015, with mul-
between PCB boards and ultra wide input voltage
tiple fault protections levels.
range reduces temperature rise. The latest gen-
eration components from international suppliers Both the Solis-4G and So-
increase performance and efficiency throughout. lis-HV series have RS485,
The Solis-HV high voltage three phase series WiFi/GPRS and Ethernet in-
adopt four MPPT algorithm to ensure the high terface available.
energy-transfer efficiency. Anti-resonance tech-
nology enables the connection of 6M+ inverters
in parallel. With advance commercial site moni-
toring solutions, improved design and intelligent
internal air circulation the max efficiency is over
99% and the THD is lower than 3%.

64 EQ May 2017 www.EQMagPro.com

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Growatt launches new

generation off-grid
inverters SPF3000/5000
Good news for those who are planning an off-grid solar
PV system. Growatt has combined unique technology
and design concept into Growatt SPF3000/5000 series
as a new solution to provide power independently and
cost-effectively where there is no grid, especially in
rural villages and isolated islands.

G rowatt SPF3000/5000 series

T
is perfect for off-grid, backup
power and self-consumption o get a good experi-
applications. Also stacking two charge ence for the users,
controller units will double the sys- SPF3000/5000 appear-
tems charging power to be compatible ance is stylish, not only
with larger capacity battery. local graphical LCD
and four buttons, but
also compact design

W ith the help of off-grid sys- (12.5KG@482*450*140

tem, many people make their mm), even source prior-
dreams come true --- turning ity to charge battery and
their abundant sunshine into electricity, power load are program-
and cater for their basic needs (mobile mable. Thanks to its
phones, TV, lights, radios, shavers etc). design, SPF3000/5000 is
scalable. The maximum
number of units in paral-

T
lel is up to 6, and suitable
o ensure off-grid PV system
work in a higher efficient way, for single phase and three
SPF3000/5000 is built-in two phase system. Charging
MPPT for more yields, and compatible power is increasable by
with lead-acid and lithium-ion battery, adding expansion charge
also supports utility grid and generator controller unit.
voltage input.

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SUNTECH LATEST PRODUCTS

Module Brief Introduction

325 WDouble
325W Poly
Solar Module Glass Poly Solar
Module
Glass-Glass structure ex-
Excellent module ef tend life span, PID free
ficiency 16.7%
No grounding requirement
Maximum 1500 V DC and reduce BOS cost
system voltage 12-year product warranty
30-year linear performance
3800 Pa wind load and warranty
5400 Pa snow load
Apply to agriculture/fishing-
solar complementary
project

300W Double
275W 5BB Poly Sided Mono Solar
Solar Module Module
By reducing electrodes
By using high efficiency N-
resistance and shading
type double sided mono cell,
area to improve the the power generation can
conversion efficiency increase 30%
Excellent module ef- Integrated with white coating
ficiency 16.8% floor, the maximum total
power
Withstand harsh envi-
ronment like coastline, can reach to 390W
desert etc Ultra-low light degradation,
LID<1%

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270W HyPro 370W Mono Half

Light Weight Cell Solar
Mono Solar Module
Module Compared to the normal
Only 9.2Kgs with 0.85 products, the power output
mm front glass can increase 10W
Reduce the hot spots and
Suitable for those load-
minimize panel degradation
bearing roof top
Excellent weak light perfor-
Excellent module ef- mance, maximize thepower
ficiency 18.21% output
2400 Pa wind load and
2400 Pa snow load

330W Multi Bus 305W SMART DC

Bar Poly Solar MODULE
Module Built-in intelligent cell opti-
mizer IC to ensure power
By reducing electrodes output
resistance and shading
area to Eliminate hot spots and
minimize panel degradation
Compared to the nor-
mal products, the power With advanced PERC tech-
output can increase 5W nology, module efficiency up
to 18.7%
Reduce the risk of
broken gate and micro- Won the CQC Top Runner
cracks Program Grade One Con-
version Efficiency Certification

www.EQMagPro.com EQ May 2017 67


SUNGROW...
Worlds most powerful string inverter
SG125HV
The SG125HV, the worlds most
powerful 1500Vdc string inverter,
is designed to significantly reduce
installation and balance of system
costs for utility-scale PV systems.
It features a 125kW capacity, up to
5MW block design, 98.9% max. ef-
ficiency, and 68kg weight. Thanks
to its Virtual Central Inverter Con-
cept of installing at one place near
the MV transformer, SG125HV
significantly reduces the cost for
installation and maintenance. The
inverter, equipped with IP68 fan,
can work with no derating upto 50
C. It is compatible with local stan-
dards including UL and IEC and is
capable of L/HVRT.
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SG2500HV
The SG2500HV, a containerized
1500Vdc turnkey station, is best
characterized by its 10-foot container
design which helps save initial invest-
ment. The central inverter comes with
a max. system efficiency of 99% and
full power operation without derat-
ing at 50 C. O&M efforts are reduced
through the integrated zone current
monitoring function and modular
design. It fully supports local grid by
complying with major IEC standards
and being capable of L/HVRT. The
SG2500HV can also be upgraded to
the more powerful SG3000HV sta-
tion which has 3MW capacity. By the
end of this March, over 100MW of
SG2500HV inverters have already
been successfully installed in India.
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TRINA SOLAR The Duomax Bifacial Dual Glass 60-Cell Module

60 CELL
A
s a leading global manufacturer
of next generation photovoltaic
MONOCRYSTALLINE MODULE products, we believe close coopera-

285-300W
tion with our partners is critical to success.
With local presence around the globe, Trina
is able to provide exceptional service to
POWER OUTPUT RANGE each customer in each market and supple-

18.0% ment our innovative, reliable products with

the backing of Trina as a strong, bankable
MAXIMUM EFFICIENCY partner. We are committed to building stra-

0~+5W
tegic, mutually benecial collaboration with
installers, developers, distributors and other
partners as the backbone of our shared suc-
POSITIVE POWER TOLERANCE cess in driving Smart Energy Together.

High power output

Increase total power out-
put through
generation from front and
back side
Backside power gain up to
25% depending on albedo
Unique J-box design and
installation method to
avoid shading on the back
side

Low LCOE
Maximize limited size,
savings in BOS and labour
cost
Compatible with major
tracker systems

Wide application
Deployable for ground
mounted utility,
greenhouse and agricul-
tural projects
Special application like
sound barriers on
expressways

Environmental
conditions
Resistant to sand,
acid, alkaline

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Jolywood N-type High Efficiency

Monocrystal line Silicon

Bifacial
Transparent Bifacial Double
Module Glass Module
JW-T60N-320 JW-D60N-320

Double-sided Power Generation Additional Power Generation Gain

With the background reflection,
the overall power generation can
be increased by 30%
ZERO LID (Light Induced Degradation)
No LID, more power generation
Better Weak Illumination Response
Higher power output, even under
low-light settings
Stronger Environmental Adaptability
More potential applications,
including eco-agriculture, eco-
fishery, etc.
30-years linear performance war-
ranty, 25% higher power output
ZERO PID (Potential Induced Degradation)
Bifacial double glass design, no PID
Higher Security
Higher fire safety class to eliminate
fire risks
Wider Application
No water-permeability and high
wear-resistance, can be widely used
in high-humid, windy and dusty area

70 EQ May 2017 www.EQMagPro.com

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Half-cell Double Glass Design

Bifacial Half High-efficient and high-voltage
tech for less current loss
cell Double
Glass Module Higher Power Output
Double-sided power generation,
JW-HD120N-320 highest power output can be up
to 400Wp

ZERO LID (Light Induced Degradation)

No LID, more power generation

Better Weak Illumination Response

Higher power output, even under
low-light settings

Higher Power Conversion Rate

Double-sided power generation, con-
version efficiency can be up to 19.2%
Bifacial
Seamless Stacking Stacked
Ultra surface utilization thanks to
the stacked-cell design Cell Module
ZERO Ribbon
JW-G60N-380
Leading no-ribbon technology, less
power transmission loss

Less Power Loss

Innovative electrical design againsts
hotspots issue

Higher Power Conversion Rate

Jolywood N-type high efficiency
cell, highest possible energy yield
can reach 340Wp

Uncovered Design for Front Side

IBC Module Hidden contact pad design for
JW-IBC60N-340 cell soldering to maximize power
output

ZERO Busbar for Front Side

State-in-art

ZERO LID (Light Induced Degradation)

No LID, more power generation

www.EQMagPro.com EQ May 2017 71


LARGE CAPACITY HYBRID INVERTERS
Growatt SPF
3000-5000
inverters
3kW and 5kW in capacity, scalable up to
30kW with max 6 units paralleled, the new
SPF series is perfect for off-grid, backup
power and self-consumption applications.
Optional li-ion battery with 2.7kWh and
5kWh capacity covers residential and small
commercial applications.
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Growatt PS30,
50,120,150
Large capacity hybrid inverters are suitable
for offices, factories, shops or rural villages.
All in one design for connecting of PV,
grid, battery and load together, makes it
easy for installation and commissioning.
Programmable working procedure is also
available for flexible application scenarios.
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Growatt
PCS 50,
100,250,
500
Bidirectional battery
inverters from 50kW to
500kW are suitable for
offices, factories, shops or
rural villages, paralleled
upto MW scale for utility
grid management, along
with PV inverters and
bypass cabinet. A hybrid
system is configurable for
power supply both on-grid
and off-grid.

Typical
System
iagram

www.EQMagPro.com EQ May 2017 73


GoodWe Exhibits at SNEC 2017
with A Whole New Range of
Intelligent Solar Products
GoodWes latest photovoltaic energy storage solutions
With the increasing depletion
of traditional forms of energy such
as fossil fuels, the development
of renewable energy sources
has become urgent. Due to the
advantages of sustainable and non-
polluting features, photovoltaic
power generation becomes one of
the most promising technologies.
However, with the increasing
installed capacity and fewer state
subsidies, energy storage has
74 EQ May 2017
recently become a very important
part of energy management.
Since 2012, GoodWe has been
investing heavily in research &
development of the photovoltaic
energy storage. So far, we have
launched three series of energy
storage products: the ES series
bi-directional energy storage
inverter, the BP series DC-
coupled battery storage retrofit
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2017
On April 19-21, 2017,
GoodWe showcased
some new, exciting
inverter innovations
at the SNEC 2017 PV
Power Expo. The latest
photovoltaic energy
storage solutions and
the new generation
of 50kW-80kW on-
grid inverter series are
now available for the
first time. Meanwhile,
GoodWe re-launched
its Smart Energy
Management System
with a comprehensive,
more diversified content.
device and the H-ES series hybrid
energy storage system. Moreover,
GoodWe has presented two brand
new energy storage products at the
SNEC 2017 PV Power Expo, the
GoodWe SBP series AC-Coupled
retrofit device and the GoodWe
EM series bi-directional energy
storage inverter. The two products
are similar in appearance, but
with diverse functions from each
other.
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Inheriting all the

excellent traits from
the GoodWe ES series
bi-directional energy
storage inverter, the
EM series is much more
practical and compact in
size, and is compatible
with both on-grid and
off-grid PV systems.
Both Charging and
discharging power is
2.5kw,and output power
covers 3kw/3.6kw/5kw.
Now, the range is
compatible with most
famous brands of
batteries, such as GCL,
Beyond, Pylontech, LG
etc.

The GoodWe SBP series AC-Coupled retrofit deviceis compatible with most single-phase
on-grid inverters and works on the AC side of a PV system.Maximum battery charging and
discharging is up to 5kW, and output power covers 3.6kW and5kW. During daytime, the
PV system generates electricity which will be firstly provided to the loads. Then, the excess
energy will charge the battery via the SBP series AC-Coupled retrofit device. The electricity
stored can be released when the loads require it (ie during the night) to enable the maximum
rate of PV self-sufficiency. During grid failures, the battery will supply essential loads with its
automatic back-up function.

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With UPS function, the battery can also be charged by the grid to
ensure uninterrupted supply in the event of scheduled power cuts.

New generation of MT series on-grid inverter (50kW-80kW)

This is the latest commercial product building on the success of the GoodWe MT series (Four-MPPT,
Three-phase). The second generation is much more compact in size and weight and the Max power is
enlarged to 80KW. The range boasts advanced topology and innovative control technology, aiming at
maximizing long-term returns and profitability for the system owner.

GoodWe SEMS V2.0 System

On 15th June 2016, GoodWe
launched its Smart Energy
Management System. SEMS
is a comprehensive energy
management system which
integrates all different layers of
communication, information and
application. GoodWe optimizes
the supporting products like
Gateway, Smart Plug and other
core components. Broadly
speaking, SEMS V2.0 puts
every system component in an
information environment that is
interconnected without requiring
actual physical connections.

76 EQ May 2017 www.EQMagPro.com

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JA SOLAR- HARVEST THE SUNSHINE

Premium cells, Permium Modules

JAM6(K)-60-305/P/HP JAM6(K)-60-305/P/HP
PERCIUM Mono 315W PERCIUM Mono 315W
Reduced series resistance Reduced series resistance
leading to higher fill factor leading to higher fill factor
Lower current resulting in Lower current resulting in
less CTM loss less CTM loss
Increased number of spacing Increased number of spacing
between cells boosting cur- between cells boosting cur-
rent density rent density
Less shading effect Less shading effect
Lower temperature coef- Lower temperature coef-
ficient ficient
Higher output power Higher output power

60 JAM6(K)(DG)-60-290/BP
PERCIUM Mono 290W
PERC 3~10%
Bifacial PERC technology on cell
level, power generated on both
side of module (bifaciality>65%),
3~10% more energy generation.
Superior low irradiance and tem-
perature dependent performance
leading to improved energy yield
Enhanced reliability and better
warranty terms to maximize invest-
ment return and reduce financial
risk
PID resistant technology integrated
with double glass structure, higher
tolerance for harsh environment
and extreme weather conditions
High efficiency PERC technology
integrated with design of 1500V
system voltage to effectively reduce
the system cost
JAM6(K)(DG)-72-350/BP
PERCIUM Mono 350W
PERC
Bifacial PERC technology on cell level, power generated on both side
of module (bifaciality>65%), 3~10% more energy generation.
Superior low irradiance and temperature dependent performance
leading to improved energy yield
Enhanced reliability and better warranty terms to maximize invest-
ment return and reduce financial risk
PID resistant technology integrated with double glass structure, high-
er tolerance for harsh environment and extreme weather conditions
High efficiency PERC technology integrated with the design of 1500V
system voltage to effectively reduce the system cost
N type mono 60-cell FRC module
Integrating back contact and half-cell technology without shading
from front fingers and bus-bars which makes the module more ap-
pealing
Impressive power rating of 350W, 17% higher than the industry aver-
age
Superior temperature dependant performance with temperature
coefficient (Pmpp) of -0.32%/
Providing better solutions to lower levelized cost of electricity and to
realize the grid parity

www.EQMagPro.com EQ May 2017 77

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GCL-SIs Multi-Busbar Modules

Granted TUV Rheinland Certification
The worlds leading
solar energy company,
GCL System Integration
Technology Co., Ltd. (GCL-
SI), recently announced
that its GCL-P6/72 Multi-
Busbar (MBB) module has
earned IEC certification
from TUV Rheinland. The
new solar product marks
a breakthrough for GCL-
SI in the development
of new photovoltaic
(PV) technology and
further strengthens
the companys ability to
increase its share of the
global PV market.

G
CL-SIs new GCL-P6/72 MBB module is one of
the first MBB module series to be certified by
TUV Rheinland in Greater China. The certifica-
tion adds a strong competitive edge to the product and
further assures the performance and reliability of the
MBB module developed by the company.

T
he solar cells of GCL-SIs MBB module are
with 12 busbars. This technology improves the
current-generating ability of the busbar and de-
creases the internal loss. It also reduces the shading
area on the cell to increase the light absorbing. This
design creates an up to 5W increase in power output,
resulting in a maximum power output of 340W, with the
module efficiency up to 17.5%.
Huang Qiang, head of GCL-SI R&D
center said, It is important and
essential to constantly pursue
the technological development of
solar modules, as the demand for
distributed photovoltaic genera-
tion and competition for suppliers
is rapidly growing. The GCL-P6/72

F
urthermore, compared to the conventional de-
sign on busbar and solder strip, MBB cell design
can effectively lower residual stress, which can
help reduce micro crack. Moreover, due to the small
distance between busbars, even coming up with micro
crack or fragment, the loss of the cell is lower and it
can keep its good performance. Addition to the regular
IEC tests, GCL-SI MBB module has also been tested in
harsh environments, undergoing tests for blowing sand,
salt spray and ammonia, and maintains a stable perfor-
mance under all conditions. GCL-SI will formally intro-
duce the new product at SNEC PV Power Expo 2017,
which will be held from April 19-21 in Shanghai.
MBB module is another huge
breakthrough for GCL-SI in a series
of new modules including 96 super
high power components, double
glazing panels and half piece pan-
els. Huang further commented,
The development of GCL MBB
module is also a significant step
for GCL-SI in becoming the worlds
leading one-stop energy service
and solution provider.

78 EQ May 2017 www.EQMagPro.com

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Trina Solar Launches

Bifacial PERC Module
DUOMAX Twin
Trina Solar Limited, a global leader in solar photovoltaic modules, solutions, and services, recently
announced that it launched its high-efficiency bifacial module DUOMAX Twin at Clean Energy Expo
China (CEEC Expo) 2017 in Beijing. The DUOMAX Twin, is an innovative solar module integrating the
technology of Trina Solars high efficiency bifacial PERC cell and Duomax module.

T
rina Solar is an industry leader in the research
and development of PERC cell technology and
production, achieving several world records in
mono-PERC cell conversion efficiency. Trina Solars
extensive experience in mass producing DUOMAX
module has been validated by its customers world-
wide, with total shipments of over 1 Gigawatt over the
past years.
DUOMAX Twin generates power from both the
front and back sides of the solar module and performs
well even under weak light conditions. The front side
receives direct sunlight while the back side receives
reflected and scattered light. Compared with tradition-
al single-sided modules, the DUOMAX Twin can de-
liver as much as 25% additional generating capacity.
The DUOMAX Twin enables increased energy
density and more electricity generation, as a result
of which, the output of the projects will be increased
with the same development costs as standard mod-
ules. By maximizing energy generation, the DUOMAX
Twin significantly reduces levelized cost of electricity
(LCOE). Since bifacial modules absorb solar radiation
from both sides, they allow a variety of tilt and installa-
tion options and are ideal for elevated ground, rooftop,
desert and snowy area installations or on-water appli-
cations. The dual-glass design used in all DUOMAX
panels provides extreme durability even in the harsh-
est environments.

Rongfang Yin, Vice President of Global Sales &

Marketing at Trina Solar. In the past, we were
focused on improving our overall product quality
and reducing costs with continuous technology
development and optimization of materials, He
said Going forward, Trina Solar will put additional
effort into product segmentation, which will allow
our customers to choose products uniquely suited
to their distinct project environments.

www.EQMagPro.com EQ May 2017 79

 Highligh
ts
SNEC
2017

JinkoSolar
Promotes
Six New and
Prototype
Products at
SNEC 2017
Jinko Solar is presented six new and prototype products at the SNEC Show in Shanghai. Making their
world premieres are the ultra-power concept, which is showcased by PERC Mono 60 of 310 watt, MCT
60 Poly of 285 watt, MCT Dual-Glass 60 Poly of 285 watt, N-Type Bifacial 60 of 310 watt with backside
plus 10%-30%, Half-Cut PERC Mono 60 of 320 watt, multi wire Mono 60 of 320 watt, which produce
5-10 watts more power than their counterparts.

T
he introduction of mono
PERC is a major move
by JinkoSolar, having
previously been dedicated
to high-efficiency multicrystalline
modules. The new mono-PERC
module, which uses its PERC
(Passivated Emitter Rear Contact)
cell technology, is made in 60 cell
form factors with up to 310 Watt.
JinkoSolar also noted that
prototype mono products new
mono modules using half-cut cells
and multi wire technologies will
boost power output to up to 320
watts from a 60-cell solar module,
which are the most powerful mono
PERC products available in the
market. The company noted that
offering mono PERC modules
provided an all-round major product
portfolio. MCT series is based on
MCT texturing technology featuring
superior low-light performance and
light trapping capabilities as well
as strengthened mechanical load
to eliminate micro-crack. MCT dual
glass module enables a prolonged
life span over 30 years, thanks to its
outstanding PID free protection by
twin glass structure. Both reach up
to 285 Watts power output.
It is also the first time for
JinkoSolar to launch P-type bifacial
technology on mono crystalline,
capable of generating 10-30%
extra energy by the diffused light
and reflected light contributed by
the modules rear side with up to
310 Watts power output. JinkoSolar
is also presenting one of its high
reliability concepts. These six
new modules combine extremely
high efficiency performance,
enhanced durability and elegant
design. These qualities ensure that
JinkoSolars technology makes
a strong impression in the full-
size category. These new models
and prototype stand for maximum
output and resolute environment-
resistant technology in all areas.
These extraordinary high efficiency
characteristics makes them ideally
suited for residential, utility scale
and commercial installation.

Mr. Kangping Chen, CEO of JinkoSolar

Our new, enhanced and groundbreak-
ing mono and poly technology and
worlds first product portfolio is set to
meet and exceed the expectations of
PV customers across the world.

80 EQ May 2017 www.EQMagPro.com


LONGi Solar releases new
solar module Hi-MO2,
starting a new era of high
efficiency mono PERC
bifacial technology
H
i-MO2 is a bifacial power generation
product developed based on mono-
crystalline bifacial PERC technology;
the power of the 72-cell module reaches 360-
365W, while the power of the 60-cell module
reaches 300-305W. The front side is equiva-
lent to conventional PERC with cell efficiency
exceeding 21%. Meanwhile, the back side
adopts a glass package, achieving bifacial
light reception and power generation. Back-
side efficiency is no less than 75% that of the
front side. The backside can increase energy
yield up to 25% (varying with the design and
background condition of the PV system), and
can bring higher returns to the investors.Last
year, LONGi Solar launched Hi-MO1 based on
advanced PERC cell technology and mono-Si
low LID solution. The Hi-MO2 developed on
the basis of Hi-MO1s low LID technology and
bifacial PERC technology can achieve first-
year degradation less than 2%, and average
annual degradation less than 0.45%, both su-
perior to conventional modules.
www.EQMagPro.com
Highligh
ts
SNEC
2017
On April 19, SNEC PV Power Expo 2017
kicked off in Shanghai. President Li
Zhenguo of LONGi Group and President
Li Wenxue of LONGi Solar unveiled a
heavyweight new solar module Hi-MO2
to the audience. The product boasts high
power, high energy yield and low LCOE,
and will start a new era of high efficiency
monocrystalline PERC bifacial power
generation technology.
Hi-MO2 extends the strengths of mono
PERC to the backside of the module, and
can achieve higher power and higher energy
yield without increasing costs, which will
help decrease the LCOE, and bring more
value for PV power plant investors, said
Li Wenxue, President of LONGi Solar.
Improving efficiency and providing low-
price high-quality products has always
been the technology innovation ideal upheld
by LONGi. LONGi has the confidence to
continuously provide high efficiency mono-
crystalline PV products with the best cost
performance ratio for global customers, to
use technology to speed up progress towards
grid parity, and to make more contributions
to improving environment condition.
LONGi Solars 365W Hi-MO2 module has reached mass production.
In the future, Hi-MO2 will be widely used in large scale utility power
plant, commercial rooftop, fishery-PV integrated floating power plant
and other distributed PV projects.
Source:PRN
EQ May 2017 81
 SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC
MODULE BACKPLANE
SERIES SDJ-5A

The Factory Direct

Selling Price $1.5/SQ.M.
Suzhou Top Giant New Material Technology Co., Ltd. Is a backbone of
technological innovation-based enterprises, is one of the drafters of the
industry standard for national solar energy components from the back.
Company since its establishment 2012, has always focused on the new
material of modified plastics, polyester modified, the application of new
materials and other high-tech insulating materials R & D, production and
sales. The company passed the ISO9001 quality system certification and
ISO14001 environmental management system certification. The first
product of high-performance environment-friendly solar cells backplane
assembly SDJ-5A have been through the national CPVT, SGS, the Euro- SDJ-5A SDJ-5A
pean TUV and American UL certification. Now has an annual output of certified certified
10 million M2 high performance and environment-friendly solar energy by UL by TUV
components from the back of the produce can dimensions.

SDJ-5A series in the quality of the back board, Has obvious advantages
in performance and cost aspects, To solve the current global back-plate
industry are the most outstanding difficulties: the high moisture of have
the snail phenomenon, low resistance to aging, service life, EVA shift,
the phenomenon of degumming and other defects. Products of water-re-
SDJ-5A
sisting performance, size stability, the performance of the voltage-resis-
Passed SGS SDJ-5A
tance and insulation resistance of wear resistant surface are better than
environmental certified
the present industry product.
protection test by CPVT

Company uphold the aim is to be the best quality of the products is

endless, Adhering to walk hand in hand with customers, win-win fu-
ture business principles, Always adhere to the innovation and develop-
ment Contact Us :
of the foundation with high quality, high performance-price ratio for Web : www.dingjiutech.com
the vision of the product, creating a good focus on the sustainable Mob/WhatsApp : +86 13814998299
development of green material enterprises.
Fax : +86 512 53666258
Email : export@dingjiutech.com

Address :
22 Dongbang Road Chengxiang,
District Taicang Jiangsu,
China, 215000
R.N.I. NO. MPBIL/2013/50966 | DT OF PUBLICATION: May 20 | POSTAL REGD.NO. MP/IDC/1435/2016-2017