Concrete

Solar energy is clean, renewable and emission-free

Published

1 year ago

November 20, 2023

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Raman Bhatia, Founder and Managing Director, Servotech Power Systems, talks about their solar power systems that are tailored for the energy-intensive cement manufacturing sector while highlighting the challenges of location suitability, intermittency, infrastructure limitations and cost barriers

Which amongst your products can provide energy to the cement manufacturing process?
In recent times, solar energy has undoubtedly emerged as a powerful and eco-friendly source of electricity making it suitable for various industrial applications. The cement production sector,
known for its high energy demands from carbon-emitting sources, stands as an ideal sector for our groundbreaking solar solutions to create a significant transformative impact.
Our highly compatible On-Grid Solar System is engineered to meet the power demands of the cement manufacturing plant by tapping into the abundant and clean resource of solar energy, ultimately leading to reduced energy costs. This not only promotes sustainable manufacturing practices but also enhances cost-effectiveness. By harnessing the abundant solar energy, we offer sustainable and adaptable solutions that are propelling the cement production energy towards a more sustainable future.

Cement production is an energy-intensive. Can solar energy support the process and make it sustainable?
Absolutely! Cement manufacturing indeed requires a significant amount of energy, which comes from carbon-emitting sources. However, by integrating Servotech’s on-grid solar system, the cement manufacturing process can be supported with clean and renewable energy. This sustainable energy source not only reduces the carbon footprint but also lowers operational costs, making the entire process more environmentally friendly and economically viable.

Tell us about your process of supplying energy to cement plants.
Our highly efficient On-Grid Solar System is designed to provide solar energy to cement manufacturing plants seamlessly. The process begins with the installation of solar panels, which capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. The energy generated is then fed into the plant’s electrical grid. This solar-generated electricity effectively powers various operations within the cement manufacturing process, reducing the plant’s reliance on conventional energy sources and lowering its electricity costs.
This transition to solar energy not only makes cement production more sustainable but also contributes to reduced operational expenses, ultimately benefitting the environment and making the entire process cost-efficient.

How is the impact of using solar power as an energy source compared to carbon-emitting energy sources?
The environmental benefits of solar power are profound. Unlike traditional energy sources that rely on fossil fuels, solar energy is clean, renewable and emission-free. When integrated into the energy supply for cement plants, solar power significantly minimises the use of fossil fuels, which are finite resources and major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
By reducing reliance on carbon-emitting energy sources, solar power contributes to a cleaner and healthier environment. This transition to cleaner energy not only mitigates climate change but also enhances air quality, thereby creating a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.

Which standards and compliances do you adhere to?
We place paramount importance on adhering to industry standards and regulatory compliance throughout the manufacturing and installation of our solar systems. During the manufacturing process, rigorous quality checks are conducted to ensure the efficiency, durability and optimal functioning of our products.
When it comes to the installation of our solar systems, we take meticulous care to ensure proper mounting and positioning, maximising their exposure to sunlight. Our manufacturing and installation procedures strictly adhere to the standards established by reputable organisations, including the National Electric Code, IEEE, BIS, ISO and IEC.
Furthermore, our solar products are MNRE-approved. By complying with these standards,
we ensure robust, sustainable, and safe solar power installations.

What are the major challenges that you face in the supply of renewable energy?
The supply of renewable energy faces several significant challenges. Finding a suitable location to facilitate installation is one of the major problems. Every area be it urban or rural comes with its own set of challenges, in this case, finding a location that supports smooth installation can get a little tricky.
Intermittency is a primary concern, as sources like wind and solar are weather-dependent, requiring energy storage solutions to ensure consistent availability. Infrastructural limitations of the grid hinder the efficient distribution of renewable energy from remote locations to urban areas. Additionally, the high
upfront costs of renewable technologies can deter investment. Regulatory and policy uncertainties also impact growth.
Finally, environmental concerns, such as land use and wildlife disruption, need careful consideration. Addressing these challenges requires advancements in energy storage, grid modernisation, supportive policies, and innovative solutions to ensure a reliable and sustainable renewable energy supply and Servotech is actively working towards surmounting these barriers, paving the way for a sustainable future powered by solar energy.

Kanika Mathur

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Concrete

UltraTech Cement Ventures into Wires and Cables with Rs 18 Bn Plan

The New Gujarat Plant Marks Expansion in Construction Value Chain.

Published

1 week ago

February 28, 2025

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UltraTech Cement has announced its foray into the wires and cables segment, further expanding its footprint in the construction value chain. The Aditya Birla Group company will invest Rs 18 billion in setting up a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility near Bharuch, Gujarat, which is expected to commence operations by December 2026. An initial investment of Rs 1 billion has already been made towards the project.

The UltraTech board of directors approved the strategic expansion, reaffirming the company’s commitment to strengthening its position as a comprehensive building solutions provider. This move follows last year’s entry into the decorative paints sector with the launch of Birla Opus, signalling the company’s diversification beyond its core cement business.

Strategic Market Entry and Growth Potential
UltraTech Cement aims to tap into the growing demand for wires and cables across residential, commercial, infrastructure, and industrial sectors. The wires and cables industry in India has witnessed a robust revenue growth of approximately 13% between FY2019 and FY2024, driven by rising urbanisation, infrastructure development, and increasing adoption of branded products over unorganised players.

UltraTech believes its entry into this high-growth sector will be value accretive for its shareholders, presenting a compelling opportunity to establish a credible, large-scale presence in the organised market.

Core Cement Business Remains a Priority
Despite this diversification, UltraTech Cement remains firmly committed to its core cement business. The company recently achieved a milestone cement production capacity of over 175 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) in India. It continues to strengthen its leadership position through strategic acquisitions and capacity expansions, especially amid intense competition from Ambuja Cements, owned by the Adani Group.

Industry Outlook: A Diversified Future for Construction Materials
The construction materials industry in India is witnessing rapid evolution, with companies increasingly diversifying their portfolios to cater to a growing and dynamic market. With infrastructure development and urbanisation on the rise, demand for complementary building materials such as wires, cables, and paints is expected to surge. UltraTech’s strategic expansion aligns with this trend, positioning it to capitalise on emerging opportunities while reinforcing its leadership in cement manufacturing.

Concrete

Star Cement to Invest Rs 32 Bn in Assam for New Clinker Plant

The MoU was signed at Advantage Assam 2.0 to boost state’s industrial growth.

Published

1 week ago

February 28, 2025

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In a significant boost to Assam’s industrial expansion, Star Cement Ltd has announced a Rs 32 billoninvestment to establish a state-of-the-art cement clinker and grinding plant in the region. The commitment was formalised with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Assam government and the company on the concluding day of the Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit 2025.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, addressing the gathering, lauded the commitment of leading investors towards the state’s economic progress. He underscored that such projects reinforce Assam’s position as an emerging industrial hub. “The investment commitments we have received reflect Assam’s potential as a centre for industries and innovation. These projects will significantly contribute to our vision of a developed and self-reliant Assam,” he stated.

This ambitious proposal by Star Cement aligns with Assam’s broader vision of fostering large-scale industrialisation, particularly in key sectors such as manufacturing, infrastructure, and green energy. The project is expected to create significant employment opportunities and contribute to the state’s economic landscape.

Surge in Investments Across Sectors
Beyond Star Cement’s investment, the Assam government secured several other strategic MoUs during the summit. Among them was an agreement with Matheson Hydrogen Lvt Ltd, which will set up a Rs 15 billion hydrogen and steam generation facility, marking a crucial step in Assam’s transition towards clean energy.

Additionally, the state signed a Rs 5 billion MoU with Global Health Ltd to bolster healthcare infrastructure, while ITE Education Services partnered with the government to enhance educational facilities through two non-financial agreements.

Over the two-day event, Assam witnessed the signing of a record-breaking 164 MoUs spanning 15 sectors, reinforcing its status as a promising investment destination. The chief minister hinted at further agreements being finalised, underscoring the growing confidence of investors in Assam’s potential.

Market Outlook: Assam’s Industrial and Economic Trajectory
The surge in investments at the Advantage Assam 2.0 summit highlights the state’s evolving business landscape. With an emphasis on industrial diversification, infrastructure development, and sustainable energy solutions, Assam is poised to emerge as a key player in India’s economic growth story. The increasing participation of major companies across various sectors signals a robust economic trajectory, further solidifying Assam’s reputation as a preferred destination for investors seeking growth and innovation.

Concrete

Kaushalya Logistics Expands with New Varanasi Depot for Adani Cement

Kaushalya Logistics has been actively expanding its depot network to support cement manufacturers with faster turnaround times.

Published

2 weeks ago

February 27, 2025

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Kaushalya Logistics, a diversified conglomerate specializing in logistics for the cement industry, has expanded its operations with the commencement of services at the Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) depot of ACC, a part of the Adani Cement Group. This development aligns with the company’s strategic growth objectives, aimed at enhancing supply chain efficiencies and streamlining cement distribution across key regions in India.

The Varanasi depot, established under the CCFA model, marks the company’s sixth location and eighth depot under this framework. Designed to manage over 20,000 metric tons of cement per month, the facility will contribute to improved inventory management and timely deliveries. As the cement industry experiences strong demand growth, efficient distribution networks play a critical role in ensuring seamless supply chain operations.

Kaushalya Logistics has been actively expanding its depot network to support cement manufacturers with faster turnaround times, optimized inventory management, and cost-effective logistics solutions. Through automation, digital tracking systems, and operational excellence, the company continues to enhance its service offerings, aligning with the evolving needs of the industry.

The launch of the Varanasi depot is part of Kaushalya Logistics’ aggressive expansion strategy, which has seen the establishment of 19 new depots in FY 2024-25. With this addition, the company’s total network has grown to 93 depots, significantly strengthening its market presence. This expansion further reinforces Kaushalya Logistics’ role as a key logistics partner for leading cement manufacturers, ensuring efficient and uninterrupted cement distribution across diverse regions in India.

News source: ANI