Concrete

Installing a solar system is just the first step

Published

3 months ago

September 23, 2024

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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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Jefferies’ Optimism Fuels Cement Stock Rally

The industry is aiming price hikes of Rs 10-15 per bag in December.

Published

2 weeks ago

December 4, 2024

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Cement stocks surged over 5% on Monday, driven by Jefferies’ positive outlook on demand recovery, supported by increased government capital expenditure and favourable price trends.

JK Cement led the rally with a 5.3% jump, while UltraTech Cement rose 3.82%, making it the top performer on the Nifty 50. Dalmia Bharat and Grasim Industries gained over 3% each, with Shree Cement and Ambuja Cement adding 2.77% and 1.32%, respectively.

“Cement stocks have been consolidating without significant upward movement for over a year,” noted Vikas Jain, head of research at Reliance Securities. “The Jefferies report with positive price feedback prompted a revaluation of these stocks today.”

According to Jefferies, cement prices were stable in November, with earlier declines bottoming out. The industry is now targeting price hikes of Rs 10-15 per bag in December.

The brokerage highlighted moderate demand growth in October and November, with recovery expected to strengthen in the fourth quarter, supported by a revival in government infrastructure spending.
Analysts are optimistic about a stronger recovery in the latter half of FY25, driven by anticipated increases in government investments in infrastructure projects.
(ET)

Concrete

Steel Ministry Proposes 25% Safeguard Duty on Steel Imports

The duty aims to counter the impact of rising low-cost steel imports.

Published

2 weeks ago

December 4, 2024

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The Ministry of Steel has proposed a 25% safeguard duty on certain steel imports to address concerns raised by domestic producers. The proposal emerged during a meeting between Union Steel Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy and Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal in New Delhi, attended by senior officials and executives from leading steel companies like SAIL, Tata Steel, JSW Steel, and AMNS India.

Following the meeting, Goyal highlighted on X the importance of steel and metallurgical coke industries in India’s development, emphasising discussions on boosting production, improving quality, and enhancing global competitiveness. Kumaraswamy echoed the sentiment, pledging collaboration between ministries to create a business-friendly environment for domestic steelmakers.

The safeguard duty proposal aims to counter the impact of rising low-cost steel imports, particularly from free trade agreement (FTA) nations. Steel Secretary Sandeep Poundrik noted that 62% of steel imports currently enter at zero duty under FTAs, with imports rising to 5.51 million tonnes (MT) during April-September 2024-25, compared to 3.66 MT in the same period last year. Imports from China surged significantly, reaching 1.85 MT, up from 1.02 MT a year ago.

Industry experts, including think tank GTRI, have raised concerns about FTAs, highlighting cases where foreign producers partner with Indian firms to re-import steel at concessional rates. GTRI founder Ajay Srivastava also pointed to challenges like port delays and regulatory hurdles, which strain over 10,000 steel user units in India.

The government’s proposal reflects its commitment to supporting the domestic steel industry while addressing trade imbalances and promoting a self-reliant manufacturing sector.

(ET)

Concrete

India Imposes Anti-Dumping Duty on Solar Panel Aluminium Frames

Move boosts domestic aluminium industry, curbs low-cost imports

Published

2 weeks ago

December 4, 2024

admin

The Indian government has introduced anti-dumping duties on anodized aluminium frames for solar panels and modules imported from China, a move hailed by the Aluminium Association of India (AAI) as a significant step toward fostering a self-reliant aluminium sector.

The duties, effective for five years, aim to counter the influx of low-cost imports that have hindered domestic manufacturing. According to the Ministry of Finance, Chinese dumping has limited India’s ability to develop local production capabilities.

Ahead of Budget 2025, the aluminium industry has urged the government to introduce stronger trade protections. Key demands include raising import duties on primary and downstream aluminium products from 7.5% to 10% and imposing a uniform 7.5% duty on aluminium scrap to curb the influx of low-quality imports.

India’s heavy reliance on aluminium imports, which now account for 54% of the country’s demand, has resulted in an annual foreign exchange outflow of Rupees 562.91 billion. Scrap imports, doubling over the last decade, have surged to 1,825 KT in FY25, primarily sourced from China, the Middle East, the US, and the UK.

The AAI noted that while advanced economies like the US and China impose strict tariffs and restrictions to protect their aluminium industries, India has become the largest importer of aluminium scrap globally. This trend undermines local producers, who are urging robust measures to enhance the domestic aluminium ecosystem.

With India’s aluminium demand projected to reach 10 million tonnes by 2030, industry leaders emphasize the need for stronger policies to support local production and drive investments in capacity expansion. The anti-dumping duties on solar panel components, they say, are a vital first step in building a sustainable and competitive aluminium sector.