Tamil Nadu achieved record-breaking solar power generation and absorption on Friday, reaching 5,979 MW and 41.40 million units respectively. This milestone was attributed to clear skies, while wind power generation was significantly reduced due to rainfall.
This article explores the fascinating history of solar panels, from their early beginnings to their current widespread adoption. It reveals unexpected twists and turns, including the influence of key figures, the Space Race, and the crucial role played by Exxon and China in driving down costs and making solar energy the affordable, ubiquitous technology it is today.
BluPine Energy, a leading renewable energy services company, has secured Rs 239 crore in financial assistance from Tata Capital for a 75-megawatt solar power project in Chhattisgarh. The project is expected to generate nearly 117 million units of energy annually and offset over 107,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions. BluPine Energy is led by Neerav Nanavaty, who has over two decades of experience in the energy sector and is passionate about driving the energy transition in India.
Antaisolar has solidified its position as a leading global solar tracker provider, achieving top rankings in various key markets worldwide. The company’s commitment to innovation, comprehensive solutions, and localized support drives its success in a competitive industry.
The global renewable energy market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by government initiatives and increasing demand for clean energy sources. The adoption of electric vehicles and the rise of solar and wind power are key factors in this shift away from fossil fuels. This trend is expected to continue, with the market projected to reach a substantial value by 2030.
Nature’s Generator introduces a groundbreaking 125-AMP Automatic Transfer Switch, compatible with various solar generators, enabling homeowners to effortlessly switch to solar power during grid outages or even make solar their primary power source. The switch offers freedom, cost savings, and control over energy consumption, empowering homeowners to embrace a sustainable future.
The Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur (IIT-Jodhpur) has developed a breakthrough adapter that will enable electric vehicle (EV) owners to harness solar power for charging their vehicles. This innovative device is anticipated to cost less than Rs 1,000 and has the potential to significantly advance the government’s goal of promoting EV adoption. The adapter effectively connects solar panels with EV chargers, allowing users to generate and utilize their own renewable energy for charging. With the growing popularity of EVs and government incentives, this adapter is poised to make a substantial impact on the EV charging infrastructure.
Ørsted, a leading U.S. clean energy developer, announced a tax equity investment from J.P. Morgan for a portfolio of solar and storage assets in California and Texas. The portfolio includes Eleven Mile Solar Center (300 MW solar, 300 MW / 1200 MWh storage) in California and Sparta Solar (250 MW solar) in Texas. The investment represents one of the largest solar and storage tax equity transactions using a combined PTC and ITC structure since the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The Eleven Mile Solar Center will receive a one-time ITC for its battery storage system, while the solar farm will generate PTCs over ten years. The partnership with J.P. Morgan includes the option for tax credit transferability, allowing corporate buyers to support clean energy projects and optimize tax liability. The investment will fund the completion of both projects, totaling 550 MW of solar and 300 MW of four-hour battery storage, with commercial operations expected in 2024.
Sungrow, a leading provider of PV inverters and energy storage systems, has partnered with Larsen & Toubro to supply 165MW of PV inverters and 160MW/760MWh of energy storage systems for AMAALA, an exclusive destination in Saudi Arabia. This partnership aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and China’s Belt and Road Initiative, driving sustainable energy development. AMAALA aims to be the world’s second-largest off-grid energy storage facility, providing continuous, zero-emission green power. It will not only contribute to Saudi Arabia’s carbon neutrality goals but also stimulate the local economy.
Jetwing Hotels, a leading Sri Lankan hospitality provider, is expanding its solar photovoltaic (PV) installations by 1.6 megawatts (MW) to further its commitment to environmental sustainability. The move will triple the company’s solar power contribution, meeting 24% of its total electricity consumption. The investment underscores Jetwing’s alignment with Sri Lanka’s sustainable development goals and its track record of incorporating renewable energy into operations since 2010. The latest expansions will reduce emissions by over 1,200 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually. Jetwing Hotels’ dedication to sustainable practices has been recognized with the Green Investment Excellence Award from the Green Building Council of Sri Lanka.
