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MHA’s Guidelines: How to restart business in different states?

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Over twenty-two thousand active covid-19 cases have been reported in India, out of which around eight thousand cases have been cured. (Source: www.mygov.in dashboard, as of April 29th 2020)

Even as cases related to coronavirus are on a rise in India, keeping the country under extended lockdown may do much harm to the economy. To gradually restart the cycle of economic growth, the Union government has formulated the exit strategy that includes lifting the lockdown selectively across the country. The centre has specified that the districts that do not have any Covid-19 cases should start production, distribution, consumption, transportation, and other economic activities. Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has mandated National Directives for Covid-19 management for various departments/ministries for a continuous phased exit from the on-going extended lockdown.

Understanding the need for a well charted lockdown exit strategy, India Inc. has welcomed MHA’s guidelines. The decision to allow agricultural and allied activities with the help of MNREGA workers has been widely appreciated, given that the harvesting season is on. The move to allow daily wage earners in the services sector to resume operations is expected to bring relief to the self-employed.

However, given that the pandemic has reached ‘community transmission stage’ in India, the key challenge faced by the states/UT governments now would be to balance the pursuit of economic revival with that of adhering to the stringent guidelines as laid out by the Union government.

Let’s take a look at how the various state governments are working in managing the health crisis with a view on reviving their economies, following the MHA’s guidelines.

Maharashtra: The state with the highest reported cases, plans to keep the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) and the Pune Metropolitan Region (PMR) under strict lockdown till May 18th. Approximately, fourteen hundred containment zones (source: Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai) have been identified in MMR alone, where strict cluster containment action plan is being implemented as per the above-mentioned National Directives.

Among sectors that have been allowed in the green and orange zones to resume activities are agriculture and its branches (horticulture, fisheries, plantations, animal husbandry, forest-related activities), MGNREGA work, movement of cargo, functioning of commercial and private establishments, industries operating in rural areas, manufacturing in special economic zones and industrial townships only in non-containment zones, construction of roads, buildings and all kinds of industrial projects, renewable energy projects and all urgent pre-monsoon related work.

Karnataka: In line with with the MHA guidelines, sectors such as health including AYUSH, agriculture and allied activities and finance will remain functional in Karnataka. MNREGA work will also be allowed, but with strict implementation of social distancing measures and mandatory face masks.

The state will also permit the construction of roads, irrigation and industrial projects including MSMEs in rural areas employing only on-site labour. In the cities, the Metro Rail projects within municipal corporation limits will be allowed to carry out in-site construction.

Professionals of the IT sector – which forms the backbone of the state’s economy – will be required to work from home. MHA’s guidelines allow 50% of the workforce in the sector to work from their site, but the state government has mandated that only essential minimum staff will be allowed in offices.

Delhi: In an order dated April 27th, after reviewing the coronavirus situation in the capital, Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has announced some relaxations. Inter-state travel of health workers, lab technicians and scientists will now be allowed. For a complete list, read this article by India Today.

Telangana: Due to the increasing number of reported cases (1,012 as of April 29th) in the state, the Telangana government is not in favour of any relaxation to the present lockdown restrictions, therefore lockdown in the state has been extended till May 7th. Also, passenger flight services will not be allowed in the state till then, even though the Aviation Ministry is contemplating the launch of services from May 4th.

On the agriculture side, the state had already ensured harvesting, procurement and marketing activities during the rabi season. Spare parts and mechanics have been made available for harvesters in the state.

West Bengal: The state plans to open up plants and factories in rural belts and clusters on a case-to-case basis. Permission for resuming construction work and irrigation has also been granted provided local workers are sourced and employed for these projects. Brick kilns have also been given permission to operate within the guidelines to contain Covid-19.

Harvesting activities and tea factories to process and make tea are allowed, capping the manpower limit at 25 per cent, against the permitted 50 per cent cap by the centre. However, Jute mills despite being situated in "sensitive areas", have been permitted to open capping workforce at 15 per cent against the guideline of 50 per cent. Moreover, the state administration has allowed manufacture of bidi, against the Centre’s revised guideline of strict ban on sale of tobacco, guthka and others.

Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Odisha and many other states are going by the MHA’s guidelines word by word for a revival of economic activity in their respective states.

Meanwhile, a major matter of concern for many state governments is the strict ban on sale of liquor, gutka, tobacco. Due to the fact that excise duty from alcohol sales are a good source of state revenue, many state governments have been feeling constrained with this guideline and have gone on record to say that they want this ban to be lifted. In the present scenario of lack of economic activity, the state governments are running out of money to sustain their fight against novel coronavirus, and hence the cry. The states that depend heavily on liquor for tax revenue are Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab, which may be losing Rs 50-100 crore per day because of the ban on sale of alcoholic beverages.

However, as per the World Health Organization (WHO), alcohol may put people at increased risk for the coronavirus, weakening the body’s immune system and leaving drinkers at risk for other risky behaviours that could increase the likelihood of contracting coronavirus.

Moreover, allowing liquor as sought by several state governments, could likely lead to unmanageable overcrowding at liquor stores, making social distancing impossible and defeating the very purpose of a lockdown.

In the light of the situation, Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi suggests that prevention is better than cure and urges citizens to follow AYUSH mantralaya’s protocol to build immunity. As the world awaits a cure for covid-19, enhancing the body’s natural defence system plays an important role in maintaining optimum health.

Let’s play our part in keeping ourselves healthy and safe.

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Concrete

Sustainable Procurement Practices

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Partha Dash, Managing Director, Moglix, discusses how India’s cement industry, a key player in the country’s construction growth, is at a critical juncture as it faces the challenge of balancing expansion with sustainable practices.

According to research by construction blog Bimhow, the construction sector contributes to 23 per cent of air pollution, 50 per cent of the climatic change, 40 per cent of drinking water pollution, and 50 per cent of landfill wastes. Over the last decade cement has been one ubiquitous element in India’s construction growth story. As the world’s second-largest producer, we are seeing an impressive growth trajectory. Major players like Birla, Adani, Dalmia Bharat, JK Cement and Shree Cement are expanding fast, with plans to add 150-160 million tonnes of capacity over the next five years. This follows a substantial increase of 120 million tonnes in the past five years, pushing India’s total capacity to around 600 million tonnes. But with all this expansion, we have got a big question – How do we ensure sustainable procurement practices, in such an energy dependent industry?

Energy-intensive nature of cement production
Making cement takes a lot of energy. Process starts with limestone being mined, crushed, and grounded, using about 5-6 per cent of the total energy. The biggest energy use happens during clinker production, where around 94-95 per cent of the energy is used. Here is where limestone is heated to very high temperatures in a kiln, which needs a lot of energy from fossil fuels like coal and pet coke. Electricity is also used to run equipment like fans and kiln drives.
Once the clinker is made, it’s ground into cement. This grinding process uses another 5-6 per cent of the energy and usually happens at facilities close to where the cement is needed. Facilities that handle both clinker production and grinding in one place are generally more energy-efficient. Many of these places use coal-powered plants to supply the heat needed for the kilns, keeping production steady.

Transitioning to bulk cement
Making cement use more efficient is key to reducing the industry’s carbon footprint. In India, as per research by World Economic Forum around 75-80 per cent of cement is sold in 50kg bags to small-scale builders and individuals. But there’s often little insight into how this bagged cement is used. Research from the World Economic Forum also shows that about 40 per cent of this cement is mixed by hand. Builders sometimes use more cement than needed, thinking it will make the structure stronger, which increases emissions.
It’s crucial to educate these small-scale users about using cement efficiently. Builders need accurate information on mixing ratios and should be encouraged to adopt design techniques that use less cement. One idea suggested in the report is to put embodied carbon labels on cement bags to provide this information, helping to promote more sustainable practices at the grassroots level.
On the flip side, bulk cement, which now makes up 20-25 per cent of India’s cement use, has its own set of challenges and opportunities. Bulk cement is often used for large-scale projects that need high-strength concrete, which tends to be more carbon-intensive. However, it also makes it easier to mix in supplementary cementitious materials (SCM), which can reduce the carbon intensity of the cement. As bulk cement use grows, especially in big infrastructure projects, balancing structural needs with lower-carbon solutions will be crucial.

Challenges in sustainable procurement
The cement industry finds it hard to adopt sustainable procurement because many companies aren’t fully on board with it. Sometimes, sustainability isn’t a big focus for the company, which means top management doesn’t fully support it. This lack of support slows down collaboration with environmental experts and limits the adoption of green practices. Additionally, many clients still prefer traditional materials, which means there’s less demand for sustainable options.
In terms of knowledge and innovation, there’s a gap in understanding how to incorporate green procurement into existing practices. Many companies aren’t fully aware of the benefits of adopting green strategies or getting environmental certifications. This lack of knowledge also affects the public sector, where innovation in sustainable practices is often held back due to a shortage of technical support and experts.
There’s also a common belief that green procurement is more expensive, which can be a significant barrier, especially when resources for sustainable products are limited. Awareness and readiness for green practices are still low. Many people don’t fully understand the importance of sustainable procurement in construction, and there’s a lack of information about the market for green materials. Without adequate training and a clear structure for green purchasing, it’s difficult for companies to fully commit to sustainability. Moreover, existing policies and regulations aren’t strong enough to drive real change and without enforcement and incentives, the availability of green materials remains limited.

Opportunities in sustainable procurement
To fully understand the opportunities in sustainable procurement, Indian construction companies need to make it a key part of their business approach. This requires strong support from top leadership, including CEOs and boards of directors. When sustainability is a central focus in a company’s goals, it not only improves environmental impact but also sets the company apart in the market. Firms that focus on green practices can attract clients who value sustainability.
Working together with industry, academic institutions and government bodies is crucial for advancing green procurement. Top institutions in India like IIMs and IITs should collaborate with agencies like the Central Pollution Control Board and the Ministry of Environment. These partnerships can help develop shared goals and standards, like ISO 14000 for Environmental Management Systems, and offer training programs across the country.
It’s crucial to help clients understand how green buildings can save money over time. These sustainable structures not only cut down on running costs but also enhance the quality of life for those who live or work in them. Organisations such as the Construction Federation of India and the Builders Association of India should promote green products, which can drive demand and reduce costs by boosting production.
The government’s role is also vital. Programmes like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana should focus on using green materials to show that sustainable construction can be affordable. To encourage use of sustainable materials, giving incentives like tax breaks, just like the ones for electric vehicles, could make a big difference.
Establishing a national certification for green procurement professionals, backed by organisations like the Indian Green Building Council, can help create a skilled workforce that can lead sustainable practices in the construction industry. By seizing these opportunities, India can move toward a more sustainable future in construction.

India’s leadership in sustainable cement production
India has made impressive strides in sustainable cement production. As per a research report by JMK research and analytics in 2022, the global cement industry accounted for 26.8 per cent of industrial emissions, but Indian manufacturers have been proactive in reducing their carbon footprint. The same report also states that between 2017 and 2022, the industry cut its emissions intensity by 19.4 per cent, thanks to a rise in alternative materials like fly ash and slag Blended cements, which now make up 81 per cent of India’s output, are a big part of this progress.
Leading cement producers in India, including Ultratech Cement, Shree Cement and Dalmia Cement, have committed to reducing emissions by 20 per cent by 2030, with a long-term goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Recently, the industry introduced 150 electric trucks to reduce carbon footprints, though challenges like limited charging infrastructure and high costs remain. Still, this move is expected to cut logistics expenses by 25-40 per cent. The industry is also pushing for policy support to accelerate the adoption of electric trucks and further its sustainability goals. According to report published by India Brand and Equity Foundation, some of the major investments in renewable energy and energy storage solutions include:

  • UltraTech Cement plans to deploy 500 electric trucks and 1,000 LNG/CNG vehicles by June 2025, cutting transport emissions by 680 tonnes annually. They aim to reach 85 per cent green energy use by 2030 and boost production capacity to 200 million tonnes.
  • Shree Cement completed a 6.7 MW solar project in Haryana in September 2022.
  • Dalmia Cement aims to produce 100 per cent low-carbon cement by 2031, supported by a $405 million carbon capture investment.
  • JK Cement signed an agreement with PRESPL in October 2021 to increase the use of biomass and alternative fuels, reducing reliance on coal.

Is the impossible possible?
The Indian construction and cement industries are making prudent strides toward sustainability. Recent research shows a strong link between the use of renewable energy and economic growth, highlighting the importance of reducing reliance on traditional energy sources. The construction industry, which has a large environmental impact, must adopt greener practices to help reduce pollution and waste.
The Indian cement industry is leading the way, with plans to significantly increase its use of renewable energy by 2026. This shift not only helps reduce costs but also sets a positive example for other sectors. The focus on renewable energy, like solar and wind, and efforts to avoid new thermal power plants show a clear commitment to a more sustainable future.
As the cement industry continues to push for net-zero emissions by 2050, its proactive approach is setting a new standard. These efforts not only benefit the industry itself but also provide a roadmap for others to follow. By embracing greener practices, the cement industry is helping to pave the way for more sustainable and environmentally friendly procurement practices in India.

About the author:
Partha Dash, Managing Director, Moglix, is a sales and marketing professional with 15+ years of hands-on experience in shaping businesses especially in the emerging markets.

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Concrete

The Circle of Life

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The circular economy offers a transformative approach for the cement industry, focusing on resource efficiency, waste minimisation, and sustainable practices. ICR finds out why integrating alternative materials, reducing carbon emissions and embracing innovative technologies, is crucial for the cement sector.

The circular economy is an innovative model aimed at minimising waste and maximising the use of resources by closing the loop of product life cycles through greater resource efficiency, recycling, and reusing. Unlike the traditional linear economy, which follows a ‘take-make-dispose’ pattern, the circular economy emphasises a restorative approach that seeks to maintain the value of products, materials and resources in the economy for as long as possible.
In the context of the cement industry, which is known for its resource-intensive processes and substantial environmental footprint, embracing circular economy principles is crucial. Cement production typically involves high energy consumption and generates significant greenhouse gas emissions. By adopting circular practices, the industry can reduce its reliance on virgin raw materials, lower waste and emissions and enhance overall sustainability.
The relevance of the circular economy in cement production is evident in several key areas:
• Resource efficiency: Utilising alternative and recycled materials, such as industrial by-products or waste, can significantly reduce the demand for raw materials and lower the environmental impact of cement production.
“Utilisation of alternative raw materials in the cement industry is a key strategy for enhancing sustainability and resource efficiency. Wonder Cement has substituted traditional raw materials like limestone with industrial by-products such as fly ash, marble slurry, chemical gypsum, red mud, mine telling reject, alumina slat, iron sludge, etc. Wonder Cement not only reduces its reliance on natural resources but also mitigates environmental impacts,” says Nitin Jain, Unit Head – Integrated Plant, Nimbahera, Wonder Cement.
“Low-carbon cement production is an innovative approach by Wonder Cement aimed to reduce the carbon footprint associated with traditional cement manufacturing. This process involves several strategies to minimise CO2 emissions, which are typically high due to the energy intensive nature of clinker production. The production of blended cement, Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC) involves mixing clinker with supplementary materials like fly ash. This not only reduces CO2 emissions but also enhances the durability and performance of the cement,” he adds.

  • Waste management: Implementing strategies to manage and repurpose waste products not only helps in minimising landfill use but also creates valuable resources for reuse in cement manufacturing.
  • Energy optimisation: Circular economy practices promote energy-efficient technologies and the use of renewable energy sources, contributing to a reduction in carbon emissions associated with cement production.
  • Product lifecycle: By focusing on the entire lifecycle of cement products, from production to disposal, the industry can develop more sustainable practices and innovative solutions for recycling and reusing cement-based materials.

Adopting a circular economy approach is not only essential for reducing the environmental impact of cement production but also for driving innovation, enhancing resource security, and fostering long-term economic resilience in the industry.

Use of Alternative and Recycled Materials
The cement industry is undergoing a transformative shift with the increasing adoption of alternative and recycled materials. This shift is driven by the
need to reduce environmental impact, conserve natural resources, and enhance the sustainability of cement production.
Alternative materials: Alternative materials, such as industrial by-products and waste materials, are increasingly being used as partial replacements for traditional raw materials like clinker.

Common examples include fly ash, slag, natural pozzolans, etc.
Recycling plays a crucial role in minimising waste and promoting a circular economy within the cement industry. Key recycled materials include:

  • Recycled concrete aggregate (RCA): Reclaimed from demolished concrete structures, RCA can be used as a partial replacement for natural aggregates in new concrete, reducing the need for virgin resources.
  • Construction and demolition waste: Incorporating materials from construction and demolition activities not only diverts waste from landfills but also provides valuable resources for cement production.

The use of these alternative and recycled materials helps in reducing the environmental footprint of cement production by lowering greenhouse gas emissions, conserving natural resources, and minimising waste. Furthermore, it supports the industry’s transition towards more sustainable and circular practices, contributing to the overall goal of reducing the sector’s impact on the environment.
According to an article published by McKinsey & Company in March 2023, the cement value chain is well positioned to create closed loops, or automatically regulated systems, for carbon dioxide, materials and minerals, and energy (see sidebar ‘Three categories of circular technologies in cement’). This entails circular economies, which are based on the principles of eliminating waste and pollution, circulating products and materials, and regenerating nature. With these points in mind, circularity can work jointly with reducing carbon emissions in cement production because circular technologies follow the paradigm of three crucial decarbonisation strategies: redesign, reduce and repurpose. According to the organisation’s estimates and expected carbon prices, circularity technologies will be value-positive by 2050, with some already more profitable than today’s business-as-usual solutions.
The report estimates show that an increased adoption of circular technologies could be linked to the emergence of new financial net-value pools worth up to roughly €110 billion by 2050, providing a new growth avenue for cement players that would otherwise face shrinking demand for their core business and significant external costs. Adopting circularity is required to mitigate at least 50 percent of this value at risk. Emerging new technologies and business models will create additional value to mitigate the residual value at risk.

Reducing and Managing Industrial Waste
Efficient waste management is critical for the sustainability of the cement industry. Reducing and managing industrial waste not only minimises environmental impact but also offers opportunities to turn waste into valuable resources. Here are some key strategies of waste-to-resource initiatives:

Waste minimisation at source

  • Process optimisation: Implementing advanced technologies and practices to improve process efficiency can significantly reduce the amount of waste generated. Techniques such as precise control of raw material inputs and process conditions help minimise production losses.
  • Cleaner production techniques: Adopting cleaner production methods, such as the use of less polluting raw materials and more efficient equipment, can reduce waste generation at the source.

Recycling and reuse

  • Alternative fuels: Industrial waste, such as tire-derived fuel or biomass, can be used as alternative fuels in cement kilns. This not only helps in reducing the consumption of traditional fossil fuels but also diverts waste from landfills.
  • By-product utilisation: By-products from other industries, such as fly ash or slag, can be integrated into cement production processes. These materials not only enhance the properties of the final product but also reduce the need for virgin raw materials.

Nitin Sharma, CEO and General Manager, Clariant IGL Specialty Chemicals (CISC), says, “As our climate gives us increasing and alarming signals of change, individuals and industries are looking for ways to reduce their environmental footprints, and the demand for bio-based chemicals is set to grow strongly in the coming years. In several applications, the use of petrochemicals and fossil carbon remains a significant issue. The transition to bio-based carbon chemistry represents a significant challenge for manufacturers.”

Waste-to-resource initiatives

  • Recycled concrete aggregate (RCA): Demolished concrete can be crushed and recycled into aggregate for use in new concrete mixes. This reduces the demand for natural aggregates and decreases the volume of construction waste.
  • Co-processing of waste: The cement industry is increasingly adopting co-processing techniques where various types of industrial and municipal waste are processed in cement kilns. This approach helps in recovering energy and material value from waste streams while simultaneously treating hazardous materials.
  • Zero-waste initiatives: Some cement plants are aiming for zero-waste targets by implementing comprehensive waste management systems that ensure all waste is either recycled, reused or recovered.

Partha Dash, Managing Director, Moglix, says, “There’s also a common belief that green procurement is more expensive, which can be a significant barrier, especially when resources for sustainable products are limited. Awareness and readiness for green practices are still low. Many people don’t fully understand the importance of sustainable procurement in construction, and there’s a lack of information about the market for green materials. Without adequate training and a clear structure for green purchasing, it’s difficult for companies to fully commit to sustainability. Moreover, existing policies and regulations aren’t strong enough to drive real change, and without enforcement and incentives, the availability of green materials remains limited.”
These strategies and initiatives reflect a growing commitment to sustainability within the cement industry. By effectively managing and repurposing industrial waste, cement producers can not only reduce their environmental impact but also contribute to a more circular and resource-efficient economy.
According to the report Indian Cement Industry: A Key Player in the Circular Economy of India published July 2020, the Indian cement industry is playing a key role by enhancing the application of renewable energy for electrical power generation. The renewable energy installed capacity (wind and solar) in cement plants increased by more than 40 per cent to 276 MW from 2010 to 2017. Out of the total, 42 MW is solar power, while off-site wind installations account for 234 MW. A company has undertaken the target of switching over to renewable energy for 100 per cent of all electrical energy needs by 2030. Big players like UltraTech Cement are targeting 25 per cent share of their total power consumption by green energy technologies.
Apart from the solar photovoltaic route, the cement industry is making efforts to tap solar energy through thermal routes.

Government initiatives
The Indian government is actively promoting circular economy principles through various policies and regulations aimed at enhancing sustainability and resource efficiency. The National Clean Energy Fund (NCEF) supports innovative projects in energy efficiency and emission reduction, including those incorporating circular economy practices.
The Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) and Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, focus on improving waste management and recycling, encouraging the use of recycled materials in construction and cement production. The Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, emphasise recycling and the use of recycled plastic, including as alternative fuel in cement kilns. The National Resource Efficiency Policy (NREP) promotes resource efficiency across sectors, including cement, and the government’s clean technology schemes incentivise the adoption of green technologies.
Additionally, the draft National Circular Economy Policy, currently in development, aims to provide a comprehensive framework for advancing circular economy practices across all industries. These initiatives collectively support the transition towards more sustainable and circular practices in the cement sector.

Emerging trends in circular economy
The cement industry is witnessing several emerging trends in circular economy practices, reflecting a shift towards greater sustainability and resource efficiency. One notable trend is the increased use of alternative fuels and raw materials. Cement producers are exploring the use of industrial and municipal waste, such as tires, plastics, and biomass, to replace traditional fossil fuels and raw materials, reducing their carbon footprint and conserving natural resources.
Another significant trend is the advancement of circular product design and lifecycle management. Cement companies are focusing on designing products that are easier to recycle or reuse at the end of their lifecycle. This includes developing new types of cement and concrete with enhanced durability
and recyclability.
Waste-to-resource initiatives are also gaining traction. Innovations in waste processing technologies enable the conversion of waste materials into valuable resources for cement production, such as incorporating recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) and by-products like fly ash and slag into new cement products.
Digitalisation and data analytics are emerging as crucial tools in advancing circular economy practices. Advanced monitoring and analytics technologies help optimise resource use, track waste streams, and improve overall efficiency in cement production.
Finally, there is a growing emphasis on collaborative partnerships. Cement companies are increasingly collaborating with governments, NGOs, and other industries to drive circular economy initiatives and develop innovative solutions for sustainable development. These trends highlight a transformative shift towards a more circular and sustainable approach in the cement industry, aligning with global efforts to reduce environmental impact and promote resource efficiency.

Conclusion
The adoption of circular economy principles in the cement industry is proving to be a pivotal step towards enhancing sustainability and reducing environmental impact. By embracing alternative and recycled materials, the industry is reducing its reliance on virgin resources and minimising waste. Government policies, such as the National Clean Energy Fund and Solid Waste Management Rules, provide crucial support for these practices, fostering a regulatory environment conducive to circular economy initiatives. Emerging trends, including the use of alternative fuels, circular product design, waste-to-resource innovations, and advanced digital technologies, underscore the industry’s commitment to resource efficiency and sustainability. Collaborative efforts across sectors further drive these advancements, paving the way for a more resilient and environmentally responsible cement industry. As the sector continues to integrate circular economy principles, it not only aligns with global sustainability goals but also sets a benchmark for other industries striving for a circular future.

– Kanika Mathur

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Concrete

Installing a solar system is just the first step

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Raman Bhatia, Founder and Managing Director, Servotech Power Systems, talks about innovative approaches to advancing energy efficiency in the solar sector, from embracing the ‘Make in India’ initiative to pioneering new technologies.

Can you provide an overview of Servotech Power Systems’ contributions to energy efficiency in the solar sector?
Throughout its journey with a strong motto of providing high-quality solar solutions, Servotech made noteworthy contributions towards energy efficiency in the solar sector, through innovative technologies and solutions. By developing high-efficiency solar solutions that are both sustainable and reliable, Servotech has played its part in making solar energy a household name. The company has expanded its reach across various sectors. Servotech’s residential solar solutions empower homeowners to reduce their carbon footprint and electricity bills. The company provides solar solutions for industries, helping them reduce energy costs, improve their environmental quotient and comply with sustainability regulations. Servotech caters to the commercial sector by offering rooftop and ground-mounted solar power plants helping them reduce electricity costs and enhance their brand image, Lastly, the company has been actively involved in executing solar projects for government institutions, aiding in the country’s renewable energy goals and by providing efficient and reliable solar solutions, we contribute to
the government’s efforts in promoting clean
energy adoption.

What role does the ‘Make in India’ initiative play in your strategy to promote energy efficiency and sustainable solutions?
Make in India, a wonderful initiative by our government, has definitely pushed manufacturers across all sectors, especially our sector, which is the renewable energy sector towards indigenous manufacturing. By manufacturing solar components locally, we significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation and logistics. Local production often leads to cost reductions in solar products which makes solar energy more affordable for consumers, encouraging wider adoption and contributing to energy efficiency. The Make in India initiative also helps create employment opportunities in the solar sector, leading to skill development and a larger workforce dedicated to renewable energy. Domestic manufacturing reduces reliance on imports and strengthens the supply chain, ensuring uninterrupted production and reducing vulnerabilities to global disruptions.

How has Servotech adapted its solar solutions to meet the evolving energy efficiency standards?
Well, it has been more than two decades now. During this long journey, we have constantly worked on ourselves, renovated, and innovated ourselves to keep up with the evolving energy efficiency standards in terms of product development, innovation and R&D. We have consistently incorporated the latest advancements in solar technology that includes the use of higher efficiency solar cells, advanced inverters, and optimised system components. We introduced innovative solar products and solutions that meet the evolving energy efficiency standards. This involves continuous research and development to create more efficient and sustainable products. We prioritise product performance and rigorous testing and quality control measures ensure that our products meet or exceed industry benchmarks and this relentless pursuit of excellence has positioned us as a leader and has helped us in delivering efficient and sustainable
solar solutions.

Could you elaborate on the significance of the engineering and design process in achieving energy efficiency in your solar EPC projects?
The engineering and design phase in solar EPC projects lays the foundation for optimal performance. It involves a careful analysis of site conditions, including solar radiation, shading and environmental factors. By carefully selecting high-performance components and designing the system for optimal orientation and tilt, engineers maximise energy capture. Additionally, this phase focuses on minimising energy losses through efficient wiring, component placement, and system integration. A well-engineered design ensures the solar system operates at peak performance, delivering substantial energy savings and a strong return on investment.

What measures does Servotech implement during the procurement and project execution phases to ensure optimal energy efficiency in its solar power projects?
Constructing a solar system involves a lot of phases with procurement and project execution being the most important ones. During the procurement phase, we prioritise the development of high-efficiency solar modules, inverters and other components. Rigorous quality assurance processes and performance testing are conducted to verify that all components meet or exceed industry standards and are compatible with project requirements. In the project execution phase, Servotech conducts detailed site assessments to determine the optimal system orientation, tilt angle and shading analysis. Strict adherence to installation guidelines and best practices ensures proper system integration and performance. Post-installation, the system undergoes comprehensive testing to verify energy efficiency and performance. Monitoring systems are often incorporated to track performance and identify areas for improvement.

How does your operation and maintenance service contribute to maintaining and enhancing the energy efficiency of installed systems?
Installing a solar system is just the first step; operating and maintaining it properly is equally important to ensure the system runs efficiently over the long term and for that we conduct regular inspections to detect and address issues like module degradation and inverter malfunctions early, preventing energy losses. Our team ensures optimal performance through routine cleaning and maintenance, which maximises sunlight absorption and energy generation. Continuous performance monitoring using advanced data analytics allows us to optimise system settings, while preventive and corrective maintenance activities minimise downtime and equipment failures. By utilising techniques such as module-level monitoring and inverter tuning, Servotech ensures that solar systems operate at peak efficiency, delivering maximum energy output and long-term cost savings.

In your view, how important is radiation data analytics and project feasibility studies in the planning of energy-efficient solar projects?
Radiation data analytics and project feasibility studies are absolutely critical for the successful planning of energy-efficient solar projects. Accurate radiation data allows for precise predictions of energy generation, system sizing and financial returns. By analysing radiation patterns, engineers can optimise system design, including orientation and tilt angles, to maximise energy capture. Feasibility studies help identify potential risks, such as shading or grid constraints, enabling proactive solutions. These studies also assess financial viability, considering ROI, payback periods, and incentives, ensuring projects are economically sound enabling data-driven decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.

Looking ahead, what are the key trends and innovations in energy efficiency that Servotech Power Systems plans to focus on in the near future?
Energy efficiency is a dynamic realm with constant emergence of trends and innovations. The company recognises the value these trends and innovations will add in the growth of energy efficiency in the solar sector. Our innovative product solar powered EV charging carport integrates solar power with EV charging, which is an innovative take on how we can charge our EVs and also save energy from renewable sources. Additionally, Servotech plans to invest in enhancing the quality of bifacial solar panels to increase energy generation. We are investing in research and development of major solar developments and understand the importance of energy storage in enhancing grid stability and optimising energy utilisation and grid optimisation. In fact, we are developing an energy storage system that will accelerate the adoption of renewable energy in low electricity areas.
Exploring digitisation of energy efficiency, we are focused on developing advanced monitoring and control systems to optimise system performance, predict maintenance needs. Lastly, to meet the growing demand for clean energy, we are exploring the integration of solar power with other renewable energy sources like wind and hydro to create hybrid power systems.

– Kanika Mathur

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