Integrating large volumes of wind and solar energy poses a challenge due to their intermittency. Advanced energy storage solutions are crucial for maintaining a stable and reliable power supply. While batteries are the current primary option, exploring alternative storage technologies and driving innovation in this area will be necessary to enhance system resilience, says Bigyan Parija, Chief Operating Officer - Solar and Storage, Serentica Renewables.

At Serentica, we are actively supporting the growth of the solar energy sector by leveraging our expertise and resources to expand renewable energy infrastructure. Our primary focus is on developing large-scale solar projects that significantly increase solar energy capacity across the country. In addition to expanding capacity, we are integrating advanced energy storage solutions to provide round-the-clock (RTC) energy supply from solar sources. This ensures that solar energy, traditionally limited by daylight hours, becomes a reliable 24/7 energy source for industries and businesses, further enhancing its viability.

Our commitment to driving technological innovation is reflected in our adoption of the latest advancements in photovoltaic (PV) technology, which improves both performance and cost-effectiveness. Through partnerships and collaborations with global leaders in the solar sector, we are bringing cutting-edge solutions to the Indian market. This not only increases the efficiency of solar installations but also makes solar energy more scalable and affordable.

Moreover, our projects are aligned with key government initiatives, such as the National Solar Mission, which aims to increase India's solar energy output. By contributing to this mission, we are helping India achieve its broader climate goals and its commitment to a sustainable energy future.

One of the primary challenges is the need for the rapid expansion of transmission capacity to match the pace of renewable energy installations. As a country, we have set an ambitious target of adding 50 GW of renewable capacity annually. However, without corresponding growth in transmission infrastructure, we risk delays in evacuating power from these projects. To overcome this, substantial investment in transmission infrastructure is crucial to ensure timely grid connectivity and prevent bottlenecks.

Integrating large volumes of wind and solar energy poses a challenge due to their intermittency. Advanced energy storage solutions are crucial for maintaining a stable and reliable power supply. While batteries are the current primary option, exploring alternative storage technologies and driving innovation in this area will be necessary to enhance system resilience.

In some renewable energy-rich states, new grid connectivity may not be available before 2028, until the high-voltage direct current system is in place. This could delay planned solar installations in the country. Therefore, it is important for us as a nation to invest heavily in transmission and ensure the timely availability of the grid.

With large capacities of wind and solar to be interconnected, managing integration complexities due to the intermittency of solar and wind expansion will also necessitate investments in energy storage. Advancing storage technologies will require collaborative efforts to drive innovation and reduce costs. Moreover, policy certainty surrounding domestic manufacturing requirements will be important to foster industry growth and stability.

Serentica Renewables is making significant strides in integrating various renewable energy sources to enhance the reliability and sustainability of our power solutions. Our strategic approach includes combining solar and wind power to create hybrid solutions that address the intermittency challenges associated with renewable energy.

Our current projects include the development of wind-solar hybrid systems, with noteworthy projects such as our wind park in Maharashtra, which will complement our solar installations in Bikaner. This hybrid approach is designed to ensure a more consistent power supply by providing wind energy during non-sunlight hours and seasons when solar generation might be lower. By integrating wind power with solar, we aim to maximize capacity utilization and deliver reliable green energy to our industrial clients, including Hindustan Zinc.

We are also exploring advanced technologies and partnerships, such as energy storage systems, to further optimize the performance and reliability of our renewable energy projects. Our commitment to leveraging advanced technology underscores our dedication to providing sustainable and efficient energy solutions.

Overall, Serentica’s strategy reflects the commitment to leveraging diverse renewable resources and technologies that only meets the growing demand for clean energy but also significantly contributes to reducing carbon emissions and supporting India’s clean energy transition.

The implementation of rooftop solar panels is expected to generate significant demand, driven by both consumer interest and supportive government initiatives. As households and businesses adopt rooftop solar, they gain energy independence, reducing their reliance on the grid and offering long-term financial savings. Government programs, such as the ‘Muft Bijli Yojana’, make this technology more accessible by offering financial incentives and subsidies, which encourage greater participation, especially in regions with high solar potential.

The reduction in technology costs and the integration of advanced solutions like energy storage further enhance the appeal of rooftop solar systems. These improvements increase reliability and efficiency, making rooftop solar an attractive option for consumers across various segments. As awareness campaigns and training programs expand, we will also see a growing workforce capable of supporting the rising demand.

Moreover, streamlined policies and simplified approvals, combined with easy financing options, will ensure that rooftop solar adoption continues to grow. With these efforts, rooftop solar is set to play a pivotal role in driving India’s renewable energy goals, contributing substantially to the 100 GW target by 2030.

In recent years, both the Indian and global renewable energy markets have been experiencing transformative growth. In India, the sector has seen impressive advancements, particularly in wind and solar energy installations. A remarkable trend is the rise of dispatchable green energy solutions, with developers now offering such solutions through Firm Dispatchable Renewable Energy (FDRE) contracts, a significant milestone facilitated by the Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI). This development underscores a positive shift towards more reliable and consistent renewable energy supply.

Globally, energy storage has become a cornerstone for maintaining grid stability, driven by innovations and supportive policies. The reduction in storage technology costs and government initiatives, such as viability gap funding, have propelled this trend forward. Additionally, the green hydrogen sector is gaining momentum, with the approval of national missions and increased investments shaping it into a pivotal area for future energy strategies.

India's renewable energy landscape is further buoyed by the government’s ambitious targets, including the goal to add 50 GW of renewable capacity annually until 2028. However, the sector faces challenges such as the need for expanded transmission infrastructure and policy certainty. Addressing these issues is crucial for maintaining growth and achieving the vision of 500 GW by 2030.

Overall, the global market is witnessing a shift towards sustainable energy solutions with a strong emphasis on technological advancements and policy support, while India is strategically positioning itself as a leader in the renewable energy revolution.

The PLI scheme’s emphasis on critical components such as HVDC systems and energy storage supports Serentica’s goal of developing robust infrastructure for large-scale renewable energy integration. By enhancing domestic capabilities, it helps mitigate supply chain issues and ensures that India’s renewable energy targets, such as adding 50 GW annually, are met without delays.

Financial incentives from the PLI scheme have enabled Serentica to adopt cost-efficient technologies, making its round-the-clock green power offerings more competitive and positioning the company as a leader in delivering reliable renewable energy solutions to commercial and industrial clients.

By promoting domestic manufacturing, the PLI scheme has reduced Serentica’s reliance on imports, improving supply chain security and cost efficiency. This aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, allowing the company to source high-quality, domestically produced components and promote self-reliance in the renewable energy sector. Furthermore, the scheme has spurred innovation and investment, driving the development of efficient, cost-effective equipment and enhancing the financial viability of Serentica’s projects.

Overall, the PLI scheme has improved Serentica Renewables’ operational efficiency and cost structure while supporting India’s transition to a sustainable, self-reliant energy future.

To better support the growth of the renewable energy sector, policy initiatives need to address several key areas. 

First, accelerate the expansion of transmission infrastructure. India’s ambitious target of adding 50 GW of renewable capacity annually requires significant upgrades to transmission networks to prevent delays in power evacuation. Policies should focus on fast-tracking infrastructure investments and simplifying regulatory approvals.

Additionally, streamlining land acquisition processes is crucial. Navigating complex regulatory requirements, local preferences, and environmental considerations can delay project development. Clear guidelines and more efficient land acquisition procedures would facilitate smoother project implementation.

Advanced energy storage solutions are also essential for managing the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources like wind and solar. While current policies have supported battery storage technologies, there is a need for further investment in R&D and incentives for alternative storage technologies. This will enhance system resilience and reliability.

Promoting private sector collaboration has already proven beneficial, with policies like open access to renewable energy over the central grid without transmission charges. Expanding such initiatives and fostering closer cooperation between public and private entities will drive sector growth.

Addressing grid connectivity issues in resource-rich regions is critical. With new grid connections potentially delayed until 2028 in some areas, heavy investment in transmission infrastructure is necessary to support future energy demands and avoid project delays. Overall, improving these policies will enhance operational efficiency and support the successful integration of renewable energy into the grid.