As one of the most populated nations with various fields of industry on the rise, India has been taking baby steps towards utilising solar power. Solar energy is becoming one of the crucial areas in the energy matrix of the country, providing a viable and economical solution to the menace caused by the over-reliance on fossil fuels. The growth of solar energy in India has witnessed a mix of policies and programs, technology and the ability of the people to appreciate the significance of renewable energy.
The development of solar power companies in India has been nothing short of phenomenal. This decade has incredible achievements in terms of solar energy capacity building in the country. Strategies instituted by the government have contributed highly to this expansion.
The government’s proactive approach to implementing policies and programs has played a key role in the rapid growth of solar power in India, especially in the industrial sector.
National Solar Mission: The 2010 National Solar Mission aimed at making India a solar power hub by installing solar power to the tune of 100 gigawatts by the year 2022. Such ambition has come with both domestic and international investments making provision for solar energy in the industrial sector. Such attitude worked well with the mission since currently, India aspires to achieve an installed solar capacity of 280 gigawatts by the year 2030 as part of its renewable energy aspirations.
Solar Subsidies and Incentives: Besides financial assistance that has been rendered by the National Solar Mission, State governments and the Central government of India also provide tax rebates, loss recovery and other incentives for businesses to encourage them to adopt solar energy. Such advantages make the cost of solar deployment for enterprises cheaper since there is no need for a large amount of initial investment.
As of 2023, the installed capacity of solar panels in India amounts to a remarkable 70 GW, a tremendous rise from a mere 2.6 GW in 2014. A considerable part of this growth has been attributed to various sectors that wanted to tap into cheaper, cleaner and reliable power sources.
Solar energy now accounts for a large percentage of electricity generation in the country, standing at nearly 12% of the total share, with marked industrial sectors utilising this green energy source the most.
Every sector has its adoption rates in the industrial sector. Major players in manufacturing, textiles and steel-making industries have already gone for solar energy due to prospects of savings in the future. Many sectors have gone ahead and built solar power plants either on their rooftops or dedicated solar parks.
There are many reasons for the rapid solar adaptation in the industrial sector in India. These factors are:
Government Support: The Indian government has put in place several measures such as subsidies, tax waivers and other policy incentives that are meant to promote solar power companies have installations in various industries. As a result, the policies have made solar energy appealing more for the companies.
Cost Reduction: The cost of solar panels and other components has greatly decreased due to developed technologies. As a result, solar energy is now reasonably better than the conventional sources of energy.
Energy Concern: The fact that India relies on imported fossil fuels can be an energy threat. Since solar energy is a local resource, there will be less foreign dependency, which will further ensure energy sufficiency.
Environmental Factors: Solar energy is a green, non-polluting and sustainable source of energy as it does not emit any toxic gases. This is in line with India’s vision of combating climate change while working towards sustainable growth.
There are various benefits which businesses can derive from industrial solar power systems.
Economics: Solar power energy minimizes the electricity bills in industries in the long run and it is an economical solution.
Energy Security: Power generation by industries can make them less dependent on the grid thereby insulating them from power cuts and unreasonably high energy tariffs.
Improved Reputation: Transitioning to solar power for instance can help a company cement its image as a responsible organisation for prospective customers and investors who care about the environment.
Welfare of Environment: Solar energy is clean energy and therefore helps reduce the emissions of gas which is responsible for the greenhouse effect thus promoting healthy living.
But with all the advantages offered, there are still a few issues to be addressed concerning the use of solar energy in the industrial sector in India:
High Initial Investment: For some companies, the major drawback could be the high initial costs of installing a solar power system.
Grid Integration Issues: Sometimes, the process of connecting solar power systems to the existing grid may bring some technical problems.
Land Availability: Urban-based industries may have challenges with land for the setting up of solar power plants.
In a green economy, solar energy is an important resource for this country. This is because the sectors of the economy that depend on fossil fuels can thrive on solar energy.
Climate warming: Solar energy does not burn greenhouse gas-generating fuels in the process, therefore preventing climate change.
Employment Opportunities: The industry of solar energy has accommodated many in the fields of production, fixing as well as servicing.
Development of Areas With Existing Infrastructure: The energy from the sun can also be harnessed for the benefit of off-grid areas in rural locations which would enhance their electricity and other services access.
The industrial use of solar energy in India has a U-turn growing future. It is likely that with the existing government support, advancement in technology, and the acknowledgement of renewable energy sources, solar power will contribute greatly to the energy mix in the country. Over time, ‘going green’ and improving revenues will provide solar energy with further attractiveness for companies.
ECE India thus has something for everyone’s needs which includes: Solar System Design and Installation: ECE India designs and installs custom-made solar power generation systems for all industries which require and have the necessity for such systems. Solar Project Financing: ECE India helps companies obtain cash for solar projects enabling them to put money into green power solar energy to help reduce operating costs. Solar Energy Management: In addition, ECE India provides maintenance and system performance monitoring services for solar systems. The benefits of induction of ECE India are assured due diligence, appropriate technology and energy solutions with timelines. ECE India is sincerely aimed at enabling corporates to leap into the new age of energy to build a – greener – India. ECE India is one of the prominent solar energy companies catering to industries in India. Known for its innovative approach, commitment to quality and high level of customer satisfaction, ECE India enables clients to use solar energy effectively in the achievement of their energy and sustainability targets.