Solar Contractors Meet Goa 2026 to Welcome Hon’ble Minister Shri. Shripad Yesso Naik as Chief Guest

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20th May 2026

bulb close up electricity energy — IIT Madras, Australian Varsities To Launch 'Australia-India Centre for Energy' To Work on SDGs

Electricity demand in the United States is entering a completely new phase. After years of little growth, consumption is now rising at a pace that many industry professionals have never experienced in their entire careers. The rapid expansion of data centres, widespread electrification, and the return of manufacturing to the US are all driving this surge.

As a result, the debate has shifted toward what kinds of market structures and regulatory frameworks are needed to keep up with such fast-moving change.In this episode, host Ed Crooks speaks with Drew Maloney, President and CEO of the Edison Electric Institute. The organisation represents America’s investor-owned utilities, which together provide electricity to more than 70% of the US population. Drew explains that today’s challenges are highlighting a deep structural divide in the US power sector.

Vertically integrated regulated utilities can plan far into the future, often on 20-year timelines covering generation, transmission, and distribution. Competitive markets such as PJM Interconnection, however, are struggling to send the long-term investment signals needed to build new power plants.The conversation begins with a major political issue: electricity affordability.

Drew notes that several misunderstandings about household power bills have taken hold among the public. He refers to EEI research showing that 34 US states have kept electricity price increases below overall consumer inflation during the past five years. At the same time, the states that have seen the fastest price rises tend to be in deregulated markets, where capacity costs are rising but new generation is not coming online.

Ed references a study from the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory that looks ahead to 2025 electricity bills and analyses the impact of data centre growth. That research found that rising demand alone does not explain higher customer bills. Instead, the causes vary widely by region: wildfire-related costs in California, capacity market issues in PJM and New England, and other local factors.

The discussion then moves to another emerging question: should large electricity users such as data centres move off the grid and rely entirely on their own on-site generation? Drew argues that although this idea receives a lot of attention, it is far from becoming a widespread practice.

Creating on-site power systems that deliver extremely high reliability (“five nines”) is costly and still vulnerable without the grid as a backup. It would also divert investment and labour away from shared infrastructure that benefits everyone. In reality, most data centres still want to be connected to the grid, even if some use hybrid setups while waiting for their grid connections to be completed.

The episode also touches on developments in federal policy, including the emerging market-intervention philosophy of Laura Swett, ongoing discussions in Congress over bipartisan permitting reform, and the ratepayer protection agreement negotiated between the White House and major hyperscale data centre operators.

Drew ends on a positive note: although the current situation requires thoughtful management, it also represents a rare chance to modernise the US grid. With the right frameworks in place, this period of rapid change could ultimately strengthen the entire electricity system for the decades ahead.

Zimbabwe’s 100 MW Munyati Solar Plant Advances With Early Construction Works In Midlands Province

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20th May 2026

The 100 MW Munyati Solar Plant project in Zimbabwe’s Midlands province has moved into a new stage of development as Munyati Evergreen Energy officially began active site establishment and early works. This marks an important milestone for the large-scale renewable energy project, which is expected to become one of the significant utility-scale solar photovoltaic installations in the region.

The project is being developed through a public-private partnership with the Government of Zimbabwe, highlighting the country’s growing focus on cooperation between private investors and state authorities to strengthen national energy infrastructure. The solar plant is strategically located at the existing Munyati Power Station, allowing the project to benefit from an established energy generation corridor and supporting infrastructure already available at the site.

Once completed, the 100 MW facility is expected to provide a major boost to Zimbabwe’s electricity supply by adding clean and reliable solar power to the national grid. The project is also expected to support the country’s efforts to improve energy security and reduce pressure on conventional power sources. Reliable electricity supply remains a major challenge in several parts of Zimbabwe, especially for industrial and mining operations that depend heavily on uninterrupted power for daily activities.

The nearby city of Kwekwe, which hosts several mining and industrial operations, is expected to benefit significantly from the project. Industries in the region have faced regular power supply disruptions that impact productivity and operational efficiency. The new solar plant is expected to improve electricity stability in the area, helping businesses maintain operations more effectively while also encouraging new investments and industrial growth.

The Munyati Solar Plant also reflects the wider renewable energy expansion taking place across Zimbabwe’s Midlands province. Recently, the region witnessed the commissioning of the 10.8 MW Glovers Solar Park, signaling increasing momentum in the development of utility-scale solar projects. Through such initiatives, Zimbabwe continues to diversify its energy mix and strengthen its transition toward cleaner and more sustainable energy generation. The growing number of renewable energy projects is expected to support long-term economic growth while helping the country build a more stable and resilient power system for industries and communities alike.

New JMK Research–IEEFA Report Warns India’s 2030 Renewable Energy Targets Depend On Rapid Expansion Of Energy Storage

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20th May 2026

As India pursues its goal of installing 500 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2030, a new analysis from JMK Research and Analytics and the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis highlights a critical reality: achieving the country’s clean-energy ambitions will depend heavily on how quickly and at what scale energy storage systems are deployed in the coming years.According to the report, India’s cumulative tendered energy storage capacity has grown dramatically—from 6.8 GW in 2018 to 90.7 GW in 2025.

Within this expansion, standalone energy storage system (ESS) tenders—procurements that contract storage capacity independent of a specific renewable project—have become the leading segment. In 2025, ESS accounted for more than 71 percent of total tendered capacity, with standalone battery energy storage system (BESS) tenders alone making up 60 percent of all ESS allocations.This shift, the authors note, is closely linked to falling battery prices and strong policy support.

As Vasu Mor, co-author of the report Viability of standalone battery energy storage tariffs discovered in 2025, explains, the surge in standalone tenders aligns with the introduction and expansion of viability gap funding for standalone BESS projects—an incentive that has helped developers bid more competitively while scaling deployment. The report closely evaluates tariff trends in India’s standalone BESS tenders, analyzing how tariffs are being discovered, what factors influence pricing and whether current bidding patterns are economically sustainable.

Among the 10.4 GW of standalone BESS capacity allocated in 2025, the two-hour, two-cycle tender configuration emerged as the most dominant. This format allows offtakers to address both morning and evening peaks within a single day, providing operational flexibility. However, since mid-2025, four-hour configurations have begun gaining traction due to their ability to more effectively meet evening peak demand.

Co-author Mouli Srivastava notes that the higher single-cycle throughput of longer-duration systems is increasingly appealing to buyers. Despite the growth, tariff viability remains a major challenge. Tariffs dropped significantly in 2025, with the lowest bid for two-hour systems hitting ₹1.48 lakh per MW per month—well below the indicative benchmark tariff of ₹2.3 lakh per MW per month. Nearly three-quarters of the allocated two-hour capacity now falls into a high-risk category, revealing a substantial gap between discovered tariffs and real project costs.

The few cases where tariffs have remained viable are largely confined to early-stage, smaller tenders conducted by states such as Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana and Gujarat.To address these concerns, the report suggests revisiting procurement frameworks—potentially through cost-reflective tariff floors, tighter developer eligibility rules and improved alignment of auction structures with on-ground execution realities.

The authors also analyze execution-related factors influencing allocated BESS projects, including battery price dynamics, developer capability, financing conditions and supply-chain constraints. Execution risks remain high: delays of up to 18 months may occur due to challenges in financial closure, procurement and commissioning. Lower tariffs could increase pressure on developers, raising the possibility of compromised asset quality over time.Still, the medium-term outlook remains positive. Prabhakar Sharma, another co-author, notes that despite current pressures, India is already witnessing rapid growth in operational BESS capacity.

As of March 2026, a majority of the roughly 1.8 GWh of installed grid-scale BESS capacity was commissioned within the previous six months. He adds that the aggressive bidding patterns seen in 2025 are likely to stabilise as market participants adjust to execution challenges and recalibrate project assumptions.The report also highlights India’s heavy reliance on lithium-ion technology—a dependence that exposes developers to global supply-chain volatility.

Given rising concerns around technology risk and lifecycle economics, tendering agencies are expected to increasingly evaluate alternative chemistries such as flow batteries and sodium-ion systems. These technologies offer advantages in terms of longer operational life, better salvage value and reduced exposure to international supply-chain disruptions.

Looking ahead, Charith Konda observes that India’s BESS technology landscape is likely to evolve into a diversified mix. Future tenders will draw on multiple storage technologies, each suited to different applications, durations and cost structures. Their coexistence will support India’s broader energy-transition needs—balancing renewable variability, enhancing grid stability and enabling a more resilient, flexible power system.

ACME Solar Holdings Limited Subsidiary Receives ICRA-A (Stable) Rating for ₹800 Crore Term Loan

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20th May 2026

ACME Solar Holdings Limited has voluntarily informed the stock exchanges about a new credit rating assigned to one of its wholly owned subsidiaries. In an official filing dated May 18, 2026, the company stated that ICRA Limited has assigned a credit rating to the financial facilities of ACME Platinum Urja Private Limited. The rating agency has given an “[ICRA]A-(Stable)” rating for the subsidiary’s long-term fund-based term loan facilities.

According to the disclosure submitted to both BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited, the rated amount for the borrowing facility stands at Rs. 800 crore. The stable outlook reflects ICRA’s opinion regarding the subsidiary’s ability to meet its long-term financial obligations in a timely manner. The rating also indicates the agency’s assessment of the company’s financial profile and operational stability.

ACME Solar Holdings stated that the detailed rating rationale and related information have been published on ICRA’s official website for investors, stakeholders, and analysts seeking additional insights into the assessment process.

The company further clarified that the disclosure was made on a voluntary basis and should not be considered a mandatory disclosure under Regulation 30 of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015.

The notification was signed and issued by the Company Secretary and Compliance Officer of ACME Solar Holdings Limited. Through this disclosure, the company continues to maintain transparency regarding the financial position and funding arrangements of its renewable energy subsidiaries and projects.

EBRD Appoints Grzegorz Zielinski As Managing Director For South-Eastern Europe Effective 1 June 2026

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20th May 2026

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development has announced the appointment of Grzegorz Zielinski as its new Managing Director for South-Eastern Europe, effective 1 June 2026.In this role, Mr Zielinski will oversee the Bank’s activities across the six Western Balkans countries as well as Bulgaria, Romania and Greece. He succeeds Charlotte Ruhe, who will retire at the end of June after many years leading the Bank’s work across central and south-eastern Europe.

As Managing Director, Mr Zielinski will steer the EBRD’s strategic engagement in these markets, ensuring that the Bank’s investments generate concrete results, address emerging regional challenges and strengthen long-term sustainable growth. Based in Belgrade, he will work closely with national authorities, private-sector partners, in-country EBRD teams and international collaborators to advance investment pipelines, shape policy dialogue and support reform priorities across the region

.A Polish national, Mr Zielinski brings nearly three decades of EBRD experience. He joined the Bank in 1998 from Ernst & Young, starting as a banker in the Power and Energy Utilities team. Over the years he led EBRD investments in multiple markets before taking responsibility for coordinating renewable-energy investment and regional energy coverage in central Europe.His leadership trajectory continued with his appointment in 2014 as EBRD Country Director for Poland, a role that later expanded to include the Baltic states and additional central European countries.

In 2018, he became Regional Director for Central Europe and the Baltic States, overseeing operations in eight countries and managing five EBRD offices. Since 2021, he has served as Director, Energy Europe, within the Sustainable Infrastructure Group, leading the Bank’s Energy Europe team and advancing the EBRD’s mandate to support Europe’s green-energy transition through investment and policy engagement.

Mr Zielinski’s extensive experience—spanning senior management roles, complex investment delivery, major policy initiatives and multi-country operational oversight—positions him strongly to elevate the EBRD’s impact in South-Eastern Europe. His deep understanding of the Bank’s priorities and on-the-ground realities will be central to driving progress in a region that remains diverse in its development paths and reform needs.

South-eastern Europe holds a significant place in the EBRD’s portfolio. The region comprises economies at varying stages of transition, with shared priorities such as modernising infrastructure, expanding renewable energy, strengthening energy security, fostering competitive private-sector growth and accelerating climate-aligned investment. The Bank’s work also places emphasis on policy reform and institutional strengthening to promote long-term resilience, inclusiveness and sustainable economic development.

Sahaj Solar Partners With Clarion Investment LLC To Set Up 750 MW Solar Panel Manufacturing Facility In UAE

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20th May 2026

Sahaj Solar Limited has officially announced the execution of a Shareholders’ Agreement through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Sahaj Renewable Energy Trading FZCO, marking a major step in its international expansion plans. The agreement was signed on May 18, 2026, with Clarion Investment LLC for the establishment of a new joint venture company named Sahaj Energy Solar Panels Manufacturing LLC in the United Arab Emirates.

The newly formed joint venture will focus on setting up a 750 MW solar panel manufacturing facility in the UAE. According to the agreement, both Sahaj Renewable Energy Trading FZCO and Clarion Investment LLC will hold equal ownership in the venture, with each partner having a 50 percent stake. The arrangement reflects a balanced partnership structure designed to jointly manage and expand the manufacturing business.

As part of the governance structure, both companies will have the right to appoint one director each to the board of the joint venture entity. The board will collectively supervise the company’s strategic planning, business operations, and overall management of the proposed manufacturing facility.

Sahaj Solar further clarified that there is no cross-shareholding between the parties. Neither Sahaj Solar nor its subsidiary owns any equity in Clarion Investment LLC, while Clarion also does not hold any stake in Sahaj Solar or its subsidiary companies. The company also confirmed that Clarion Investment LLC has no association with Sahaj Solar’s promoter group or related entities.

The company stated that the transaction qualifies as a related party transaction only because Sahaj Renewable Energy Trading FZCO is its wholly-owned subsidiary. However, the agreement has been executed strictly on an arm’s length basis. Sahaj Solar also confirmed that no fresh shares are being issued under the present arrangement and there are no conflicts of interest involving nominee directors.

Wood Mackenzie Highlights Growing Grid Stability Risks As Coal And Gas Plants Retire And Synchronous Condensers Return To Focus

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20th May 2026

top view photo of solar panels — Representational image. Credit: Canva

As coal and gas plants continue to retire, most discussions about the energy transition focus on how to replace the electricity they produce. What often receives far less attention are the physical characteristics these traditional generators provided automatically: the inertia that helps maintain grid frequency, the fault current that supports voltage during unexpected events, and the reactive power that keeps voltage stable across the network.

These functions were delivered naturally by large spinning machines connected to the grid, reacting instantly through their own physics without needing sensors, software, or control systems. As inverter-based technologies replace them, this built-in mechanical support system disappears, just as the grid faces new pressure from AI data centres capable of swinging their electricity demand by hundreds of megawatts within seconds.

It is a challenge Wood Mackenzie notes as increasingly urgent for system operators worldwide.In this episode, host Bridget van Dorsten speaks with Kristina Carlquist, General Manager of Synchronous Condensers at ABB, and Christian Payerl, Sales Manager of Synchronous Condensers at ABB, to explore why a technology that has existed since the early days of the grid is re-emerging as a critical solution.Christian outlines the three key grid services now being lost: inertia, short-circuit current, and reactive power.

He explains why inverter-based generation does not naturally replace them. While grid-forming batteries can be programmed to mimic the effect of inertia, doing so has limitations: charge-discharge cycles reduce lifetime, overload capability only lasts for microseconds, and the detailed models required for grid simulations are often restricted by manufacturer intellectual property.

Synchronous condensers, by contrast, provide these services purely through physical response, in both directions, without degradation and without uncertainty in how they behave during disturbances. Christian notes that the recent blackout in Spain is an example of what can happen when this gap in system strength is not addressed.

Kristina shares the commercial perspective and the rapid growth in demand. ABB’s collaboration with VoltaGrid began with an unexpected enquiry in late 2024 regarding synchronous condensers for isolated data centre microgrids. That partnership has since expanded significantly, with dozens of units delivered.

On larger grid-connected systems, the Faroe Islands have already installed four synchronous condensers, with a fifth planned, as part of their transition toward 100% renewable energy—an ambition already showing results, with several multi-day periods powered entirely by renewables. ABB is also supporting Korea’s Jeju Island on its first project that incorporates a flywheel-equipped synchronous condenser.

The range of customers is widening, from island grids integrating renewables to transmission system operators strengthening weak grid regions, mining operations shifting to electrification, and now data centre developers who had not previously considered the need for grid-stability equipment.The conversation concludes with a look at policy and standards.

Christian, who is involved in international standards work through CIGRE, points out that there is still no global standard for flywheel safety. He also notes that the way inertia is treated varies widely by jurisdiction: the UK recognises it as a paid service, while in Sweden it is considered free, meaning rotating machines providing it do not receive any compensation.

With data centre demand rising faster than regulatory frameworks can adapt, both guests agree that ensuring grid stability will require a mix of technologies. The challenge, they argue, is achieving alignment across industry, utilities and policymakers on what the grid actually needs to function reliably in a rapidly changing environment.

The episode is sponsored by GridBeyond. The company supports energy asset owners facing the growing challenge of optimising performance in increasingly competitive and fast-moving power markets. Using AI-driven forecasting, energy trading and real-time optimisation, GridBeyond helps operators unlock new value from their assets.

Its platform offers precise market forecasting, intelligent access to multiple revenue streams, instant control responses to system conditions, and optimisation that blends AI insights with human expertise. Whether managing batteries, gas peakers, hybrid systems or complex multi-asset portfolios, GridBeyond enables customers across the energy sector to boost returns and accelerate their energy transition.

KPI Green Energy Limited Signs 120 MW/240 MWh BESS Deal With Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited In Gujarat

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20th May 2026

KPI Green Energy Limited has announced a major expansion in its battery energy storage business through its subsidiary Sun Drops Energia Limited. The company informed stock exchanges that Sun Drops Energia has signed a Battery Energy Storage Purchase Agreement (BESPA) with Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited for the development of a standalone Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project in Gujarat.

The newly awarded project has a total storage capacity of 120 MW / 240 MWh. This addition comes after an earlier agreement signed for a 445 MW / 890 MWh BESS project with GUVNL. With both projects combined, the KPI Green Energy Group’s total executed standalone BESS portfolio has now reached 565 MW / 1,130 MWh. The company said this achievement reflects its growing focus on utility-scale energy storage infrastructure in India.

According to the company, the project was awarded through a competitive tariff-based bidding process conducted by GUVNL under Phase-VIII. The project is also supported through Viability Gap Funding (VGF), which is being provided under the Power System Development Fund (PSDF) of the Government of India. Under the agreement, Sun Drops Energia Limited will be responsible for the complete development, ownership, and operation of the battery energy storage systems.

The BESS installations will be developed at two strategic locations in Gujarat. A capacity of 65 MW / 130 MWh will be installed near the 220kV Gariyadhar AIS Substation, while another 55 MW / 110 MWh system will be developed near the 220kV Otha AIS Substation. These projects are expected to support grid stability and ensure reliable energy storage availability for GUVNL on a long-term basis.

The company further clarified that GUVNL is a domestic entity and confirmed that there is no involvement of promoters or related parties in the agreement. Therefore, the transaction does not fall under related-party transactions as defined by SEBI regulations.

KPI Green Energy stated that the disclosure was made under Regulation 30 of SEBI’s Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements Regulations, 2015. The company believes this agreement will strengthen its position in India’s fast-growing battery energy storage market and create new opportunities in the renewable energy sector.

Iberdrola Marks 125 Years With A Special Event In Bilbao Highlighting Its Evolution Into A Global Energy Leader

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20th May 2026

Iberdrola has celebrated its 125th anniversary in Bilbao with an event dedicated to honouring the individuals and institutions that have shaped the company’s long history. The ceremony, attended by the lehendakari, Imanol Pradales, included the presentation of a commemorative book that reflects on Iberdrola’s journey and its role in what the International Energy Agency refers to as the “era of electricity”.The book is organised into three main sections.

The first recounts Iberdrola’s origins in Bilbao in 1901 and traces its development over the decades. The second describes the company’s major transformation during the past 25 years. Through significant investment in electricity networks, renewable energy, and energy storage, as well as its expansion into international markets, Iberdrola has grown to become the largest electricity company in Europe and one of the two largest globally by market capitalization.

The third section looks ahead to the future of the electricity sector and examines how Iberdrola aims to contribute to an increasingly electrified global economy.During his address, Iberdrola’s Executive Chairman, Ignacio Galán, explained that the publication is primarily a tribute to the people who have contributed to the company’s growth and service to society.

He emphasised that Iberdrola’s current position is the result of a collective effort and noted that, despite its global presence, the company has always preserved its Basque identity.Elixabete Etxanobe, the General Representative of Bizkaia, highlighted the importance of a supportive environment for companies to thrive.

She noted that strong societies foster strong industries and pointed to Iberdrola as an example of a local company that has become a global leader while continuing to boost the region’s ecosystem of SMEs, start-ups, and talent.Lehendakari Imanol Pradales also addressed the audience, recalling that Iberdrola emerged during the first wave of Basque industrialisation.

He stated that, 125 years later, the company remains an essential player in promoting industrial and technological development in both the Basque Country and Europe. He stressed the need for a national regulatory framework that encourages investment in electricity networks and fully utilises the European Union’s economic and fiscal tools, noting that the future of industrial employment and new projects in the region depends on these policies.

The event was attended by the Mayor of Bilbao, Juan Mari Aburto, members of Iberdrola’s board and senior management, and representatives of employees, retirees, suppliers, shareholders, and other groups closely associated with the company’s history. Guests enjoyed musical performances by the Bilbao Choral Society and the Bilbao Symphony Orchestra.

The event was hosted by Anne Igartiburu.In addition to the formal ceremony, Iberdrola plans to extend its anniversary celebrations to the wider public. A large open-air event will be held, featuring a music festival with nationally and internationally recognised artists, followed by a light show visible across much of Bilbao.

These activities are part of a broader programme taking place throughout Spain under the theme “125 years of light”. The programme includes technology and art exhibitions, concerts, community events, and the illumination of significant buildings and monuments. Through these initiatives, Iberdrola aims to share its long-standing commitment to progress, innovation, and the benefits of electrification with society as a whole.

Andhra Pradesh Invites Bids For 4.5 MW Solar PV Projects Under BOOT Model In Rajamahendravaram

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20th May 2026

The Andhra Pradesh Information Technology, Electronics, and Communications Department has invited bids for two solar power projects on behalf of the Rajamahendravaram Municipal Corporation (RMC). The tenders are aimed at boosting renewable energy infrastructure in the state through long-term solar power development projects under the Build, Own, Operate, and Transfer (BOOT) model.

The first project involves the survey, design, supply, installation, commissioning, operation, and maintenance of a 3 MW Solar PV system. The project will be developed on agricultural lands owned by the Rajamahendravaram Municipal Corporation at Dharmavaram and Malakapalli. The selected developer will be responsible for operating and maintaining the plant for a period of 25 years.

According to the tender notification, bidders are required to pay a non-refundable tender fee of ₹1,000 along with an Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) of ₹5 lakh. The project falls under the Miscellaneous Services category and is being managed directly by the Municipal Corporation of Rajahmundry. The tender was e-published on May 13, 2026, and bid submissions opened on the same day at 9:00 PM. Interested companies can download the bid documents and submit proposals until May 29, 2026, at 2:30 PM. The bids will be opened on May 29, 2026, at 4:00 PM. The official tender reference number for the project is 43/RFP/MCR/2026-27.

In a separate tender, the department has also invited bids for the development of a 1.5 MW Solar PV project at Dommeru on RMC agricultural land. Similar to the 3 MW project, this solar plant will also be executed under the BOOT model with a 25-year operation and maintenance responsibility assigned to the successful bidder.

The timeline for the 1.5 MW project follows a similar schedule. The tender was e-published on May 13, 2026, at 6:17 PM, while document downloads and bid submissions started from 9:00 PM on the same day. The final submission deadline is May 29, 2026, at 2:30 PM, and the bids will be opened later that day at 4:00 PM.

For this project, participating agencies must submit a tender fee of ₹1,000 and an EMD of ₹5 lakh. The selected contractor will also need to furnish a Performance Bank Guarantee as per the conditions specified in the final agreement and tender guidelines.

How India’s ₹5,500 Crore Floating Solar and Storage Scheme Could Reshape the Clean Energy Ecosystem

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Sangita Shetty

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20th May 2026

Floating solar panels array on lake connected to battery storage facility on shore — A large floating solar farm on a lake with battery storage units onshore

India’s clean energy transition is entering a decisive new phase — one where energy storage is emerging as strategically important as renewable generation itself. The Finance Ministry panel’s reported clearance of the ₹5,500 crore floating solar and battery storage scheme signals a broader structural shift in India’s renewable energy roadmap: from capacity addition to grid reliability, dispatchable renewable power, and energy system resilience.

For nearly a decade, India’s renewable energy growth story has largely been driven by aggressive solar and wind deployment targets. However, as renewable penetration rises, the limitations of intermittent power generation have become increasingly visible. Grid balancing challenges, curtailment risks, evening peak demand pressures, and transmission bottlenecks are now forcing policymakers to prioritise integrated storage infrastructure alongside generation assets.

The proposed floating solar and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) initiative directly addresses this transition. By combining floating solar installations with storage systems, the government is attempting to solve multiple structural challenges simultaneously — land scarcity for utility-scale projects, renewable intermittency, peak power management, and long-duration energy reliability. More importantly, the scheme reflects growing recognition that India’s clean-energy ambitions cannot be achieved through generation capacity alone.

According to Anand Kabra, Chairman and Managing Director, Kabra Extrusiontechnik Ltd and Geon – Green Energy On, the development reflects how India’s energy transition is “moving beyond generation capacity to building a strong storage ecosystem.” Industry experts believe the policy could significantly accelerate battery innovation, domestic manufacturing, scalable clean-tech infrastructure, and long-term energy independence, while also reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels.

The implications extend well beyond conventional renewable developers. For India’s emerging deep-tech battery ecosystem, the policy could create long-term commercial visibility and investor confidence. Kajal Shah, Co-founder & CEO of Dreamfly Innovations highlighted that the scheme sends a strong message that India is now prepared to support clean energy deployment at scale, particularly for companies developing indigenous battery technologies. Floating solar installations require thermally resilient and application-specific storage systems, creating new opportunities for advanced Lithium-ion and Graphene battery innovation designed and manufactured in India.

At the same time, the scheme is expected to strengthen India’s rapidly expanding BESS integration and energy management market. Ayush Misra, Co-founder and CEO, AmpereHour Energy, described the development as a major growth catalyst for the broader storage ecosystem. Large-scale government support is expected to improve commercial viability for grid-side storage, mini-grids, solar-plus-storage projects, and intelligent energy management platforms, particularly as developers seek scalable and finance-ready storage integration partners.

The larger significance of the proposed scheme lies in what it represents for India’s renewable energy evolution. The conversation is no longer just about megawatts of installed solar capacity — it is increasingly about creating an intelligent, flexible, and storage-backed energy ecosystem capable of supporting long-term industrial growth, grid resilience, and national energy security.

MPERC Draft Amendment Eases Rooftop Solar Adoption And Supports PM Surya Ghar Scheme In Madhya Pradesh

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20th May 2026

The Madhya Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (MPERC) has released a draft notification proposing the first amendment to its Grid Interactive Renewable Energy Systems Related Matters Regulations [Revision-II] of 2024. Issued on May 15, 2026, the draft amendment is aimed at simplifying renewable energy adoption in the state while supporting the growing implementation of rooftop solar and other distributed renewable energy systems. The proposed rules will become effective after their publication in the Madhya Pradesh Gazette.

One of the most significant features of the amendment is its alignment with the central government’s PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, launched on February 29, 2024. The commission has proposed several consumer-friendly measures to encourage wider participation under the scheme, especially among residential prosumers who both generate and consume electricity through rooftop solar systems.

Under the draft amendment, applicants seeking net metering connections under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana will be fully exempted from paying processing charges. In addition, electricity distribution companies will not be allowed to collect any fees for meter testing for such connections. These provisions are expected to reduce the financial burden on consumers and make rooftop solar adoption more accessible.

The commission has also proposed steps to simplify the overall application and approval process. Instead of requiring consumers to execute a separate physical connection agreement, the amendment proposes integrating the agreement directly into the application form itself. This will allow applicants to complete the legal formalities online at the time of submission, reducing paperwork and speeding up approvals.

Apart from consumer-related relief measures, the draft amendment introduces certain technical and regulatory clarifications. It revises references within Regulation 8A by replacing earlier clause references with a simplified structure. Similarly, Regulation 8D has been updated to replace the term “group net metering agreement” with “virtual net metering agreement” to provide clearer legal terminology for different metering arrangements.

The amendment also proposes changes to Regulation 9 related to Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) compliance for distribution licensees. According to the draft, electricity generated by prosumers under net metering, group net metering, gross metering, or virtual net metering arrangements will count toward the renewable energy obligations of the power distribution companies.

The draft further specifies that if renewable generation meters are installed and maintained according to the guidelines of the Central Electricity Authority and the energy data is directly recorded by the distribution company, the full amount of generated renewable energy will be considered for RPO compliance. In cases where exact energy generation data cannot be measured, the generated units will be calculated using formulas defined under the MPERC Cogeneration and Generation of Electricity from Renewable Sources of Energy Regulations, 2021.

The draft notification was issued under the authority of the commission and signed by Secretary Dr. Umakanta Panda. The proposed amendment reflects MPERC’s effort to digitize renewable energy administration, remove procedural barriers for consumers, and support utilities in achieving renewable energy targets across the state.

MNRE Approves ₹2,584 Crore Small Hydro Power Scheme To Add 1,500 MW Renewable Energy Capacity

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20th May 2026

Small hydropower dam with sign promoting clean renewable energy on a river surrounded by dense forest and mountains. — A small hydropower dam generating clean, renewable energy in a scenic mountain river setting.

The Government of India’s Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has officially approved the implementation of the Small Hydro Power Development Scheme, marking a significant step toward strengthening the country’s renewable energy infrastructure. The scheme will remain active for five years, from FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31, and aims to promote the development of small hydroelectric power projects across India. The President of India has sanctioned a financial outlay of ₹2,584.60 crore for the nationwide initiative.

The scheme focuses on supporting small hydro projects with capacities ranging from 1 MW to 25 MW. These projects are considered environmentally sustainable because they generate electricity using the natural flow of rivers, streams, and canals without requiring large dams or major land submergence. The government believes that small hydro power can play a key role in improving regional energy security while contributing to India’s clean energy goals.

Under the scheme, the government plans to add nearly 1,500 MW of new hydro power capacity over the next five years. Apart from clean electricity generation, the initiative is expected to create substantial employment opportunities across the country. During the construction phase, around 51 lakh person-days of work are projected to be generated, while nearly 9,000 permanent jobs are expected after project commissioning.

The environmental benefits are also expected to be significant. According to the ministry, the projects developed under the scheme could help avoid nearly 4.3 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually once the targeted capacity becomes operational. This aligns with India’s broader climate commitments and renewable energy transition plans.

The implementation and monitoring of the scheme will be handled by the Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited, which has been appointed as the National Programme Implementing Agency. The agency will oversee developer applications, project approvals, and fund disbursement processes.

A major portion of the total outlay, amounting to ₹2,532.60 crore, has been allocated as Central Financial Assistance for project developers. Additionally, ₹30 crore has been earmarked for preparing Detailed Project Reports to support a future pipeline of around 200 projects. The remaining funds will support research, innovation, capacity building, international cooperation, and project monitoring activities involving institutions such as IITs and NITs.

To encourage development in difficult terrains, the government has provided higher financial incentives for projects in hilly and North-Eastern regions. Projects located in border areas and North-Eastern states can receive up to 30% of normative capital costs, capped at ₹30 crore per project. Other regions will receive support of up to 20%, capped at ₹20 crore per project.

The ministry has also introduced a transparent digital process for registrations, applications, and fund disbursements through a dedicated online portal. Developers whose projects began construction after March 18, 2026, will be eligible to apply. The scheme allows participation from private, public, and joint venture entities selected through competitive bidding. Projects approved under the scheme must be completed within four years to ensure timely execution and faster clean energy deployment.

India Approves 13 Lakh+ Rooftop Solar Systems Under ULA Model To Expand Clean Energy Access

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20th May 2026

The Government of India has approved the installation of more than 13 lakh rooftop solar systems across ten states and Union Territories under the Utility-Led Aggregation (ULA) model, marking a major step toward expanding clean energy access for economically weaker households. The initiative is part of the larger PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, which aims to accelerate rooftop solar adoption across the country and reduce dependence on conventional fossil fuel-based electricity generation.

According to government officials, rooftop solar installations under the ULA model have already started in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Telangana, and the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. Several other states and regions, including Bihar, Kerala, Jammu and Kashmir, Tripura, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Delhi, have also submitted proposals to participate in the programme.

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has set a national target of installing one crore rooftop solar systems by March 2027 under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. Out of this overall target, around 30 lakh systems are planned to be deployed through the ULA model. The government believes this approach will play a crucial role in increasing solar adoption among vulnerable and low-income households that have so far remained outside the mainstream rooftop solar market.

Officials noted that financial limitations and lower electricity consumption have been among the key reasons behind limited participation from economically weaker families. At present, over 60 per cent of rooftop solar installations in India fall in the 3-4 kW category, a segment mainly dominated by middle-income households with comparatively higher electricity demand.

Under the ULA model, power distribution utilities will take responsibility for aggregating households, coordinating rooftop solar installations, and facilitating financing support. This system is expected to lower upfront investment requirements for consumers and simplify the overall installation process. By reducing financial and procedural barriers, the government aims to make rooftop solar systems more accessible to households that previously could not afford such investments.

Government data shows that more than 31 lakh rooftop solar systems with a combined installed capacity of 11.4 GW have already been deployed under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. The continued expansion of rooftop solar infrastructure is expected to support India’s clean energy transition by reducing household electricity expenses, improving energy security, and lowering carbon emissions from traditional power generation sources.

Solarvest Holdings Berhad Reports 53.7% Profit Growth In FY2026 With Record Revenue And Expanding Solar Pipeline

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20th May 2026

Solar energy market growth chart overlaid on a solar panel farm showing investment and capacity increase from 2020 to 2025 — Solar farm highlighting rising global solar energy investments from 2020 to 2025

Solarvest Holdings Berhad has reported another year of strong financial growth, marking its fourth consecutive record-breaking performance for the financial year ending 2026. The regional clean energy company recorded a net profit of RM79.8 million, reflecting a significant year-on-year increase of 53.7%. Its total annual revenue also grew strongly by 41% to RM757.1 million, mainly supported by the steady progress of major utility-scale solar projects across Malaysia.

Over the last five years, the company has achieved remarkable expansion. Since 2022, Solarvest’s revenue has increased by 330%, while its net profit has grown nearly eleven times. Despite rapid business expansion, the company also managed to improve its profitability margins. Its gross profit margin increased to 28.3%, while net profit margin strengthened to 10.5%. According to the management, this performance was supported by strong project execution, operational discipline, and better pricing strength across its renewable energy business.

The company’s engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning segment remained the biggest contributor to overall revenue. This division generated RM673.6 million, accounting for 89% of total revenue during the financial year. Meanwhile, the renewable energy generation segment also showed healthy growth, increasing by 28.5% to RM34.3 million. The growth was mainly supported by rooftop solar projects under Powervest and contributions from operational solar assets.

Solarvest also highlighted the progress of Powervest, which has secured a cumulative capacity of 133MWp through corporate power purchase agreements. These projects are expected to generate around RM53.1 million in annual recurring revenue over the next 12 to 18 months, strengthening the company’s long-term income visibility.

Looking ahead, the company’s future project pipeline remains strong. Solarvest successfully doubled its unbilled order book to RM2.5 billion compared to RM1.3 billion in the previous year. This includes contracts for two of Malaysia’s largest solar farms with a combined capacity of nearly 1.4GWp. In addition, the group currently maintains a tender book totaling 12.62GWp, including 10.81GWp in Malaysia and 1.81GWp from international markets.

The company is also preparing to benefit from Malaysia’s next phase of energy transition policies, particularly in battery energy storage systems, smarter grid management, and energy efficiency solutions. The upcoming Large Scale Solar 6 programme, expected in the second half of 2026, is likely to include mandatory energy storage systems, an area where Solarvest has already started positioning itself strongly for future opportunities.

India’s Power Distribution Sector Shows Recovery, But Privatization Seen As Key To Long-Term Stability—SBICAPS Report

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20th May 2026

low angle photo of gray transmission tower — Representational image. Credit: Canva

India’s power sector is witnessing strong growth with rapid additions in renewable energy, thermal power, and nuclear capacity. However, while generation and transmission infrastructure continue to improve, the power distribution segment remains the biggest challenge in ensuring long-term stability of the national electricity network. According to a recent report by SBICAPS, distribution companies (DISCOMs) have shown significant operational and financial improvement over the last decade.

The report highlighted that Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses reduced sharply from more than 25 percent in FY15 to nearly 15 percent in FY25. This improvement was mainly driven by better collection efficiency and tighter operational controls. At the same time, the difference between the average cost of supply and average revenue realized, commonly known as the ACS-ARR gap, also improved considerably. The gap narrowed to only 6 paise per unit in FY25 compared to 89 paise per unit in FY21. Due to these improvements, DISCOMs together recorded a net profit of Rs. 27 billion in FY25 after suffering financial losses for several years.

Despite this progress, the report noted that the turnaround is still uneven across the country. Several eastern states continue to perform poorly in operational efficiency. The implementation of smart meters, considered an important reform for improving billing and reducing losses, has also been slow and fragmented among states. The report further observed that the financial recovery of DISCOMs was largely supported by the strong performance of private utilities and the timely release of pending government subsidies rather than a complete transformation of state-owned utilities.

Another concern raised in the report relates to outstanding dues owed by DISCOMs to power generation companies. While these dues have reduced in recent years, the report stated that much of the improvement has come from state financing agencies restructuring or shifting debt rather than permanently eliminating liabilities.

The report strongly recommended privatization as a long-term solution for improving the financial and operational health of power distribution utilities. According to the analysis, states with private participation recorded AT&C losses that were around 8 percentage points lower than states operated entirely by public utilities. The report cited the example of Odisha, where four privatized distribution companies reduced their AT&C losses by 11 to 16 percentage points within five years.

Based on an assessment of utilities across 22 major states, the report identified Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Bihar, and Chhattisgarh among the states that could immediately benefit from large-scale privatization. Gujarat and West Bengal were also considered suitable candidates despite already maintaining relatively stronger utilities.

The report added that privatizing 11 financially viable state utilities could significantly improve state finances and reduce the combined fiscal deficit of these states from 3.5 percent to 3 percent of nominal GSDP. For states carrying large legacy debts, the report suggested gradual reforms including restructuring utilities, refinancing expensive loans, and introducing selective private investment. According to the report, improving efficiency in the distribution sector will play a major role in strengthening India’s overall power grid and supporting future energy growth.

CEA Invites Public Feedback On Draft Transmission Planning Amendment For 1150 kV Grid Expansion

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20th May 2026

The Central Electricity Authority (CEA), under the Ministry of Power, Government of India, has invited suggestions and comments from stakeholders and the general public on Draft Amendment-II to the Manual on Transmission Planning Criteria, 2023. The move is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen India’s power transmission network and update planning standards in line with future grid requirements.

The original transmission planning manual came into effect on April 1, 2023, while Amendment I was introduced on January 8, 2025, to include additional power system planning procedures. According to the latest notification issued on May 19, 2026, the authority now plans to make several important technical revisions to accommodate new transmission technologies, revise conductor parameters, and include updated seasonal demand and renewable energy generation factors.

One of the biggest changes proposed in the draft amendment is the inclusion of 1150 kV ultra-high-voltage AC transmission systems into India’s transmission planning framework. The amendment introduces detailed operational and safety criteria specifically designed for the 1150 kV network. Under normal operating conditions, the voltage level for the system must remain within a maximum limit of 1200 kV and a minimum limit of 1090 kV.

The draft also proposes stronger reliability norms for critical infrastructure facilities such as metro rail systems, airports, railways, hospitals, data centers, refineries, and steel plants. These facilities will be required to maintain 100% redundancy in their grid connections and, wherever possible, receive electricity supply from two independent power sources to ensure uninterrupted operations.

The revised planning criteria further focus on improving grid stability and system security during contingencies and faults. Under the updated N-1 contingency criteria, the transmission system must continue operating safely within thermal limits even if a single 1150 kV transmission circuit suddenly goes out of service. In addition, the draft specifies that the grid should remain stable during permanent three-phase-to-ground faults occurring close to an 1150 kV bus, provided the fault is cleared within 100 milliseconds.

The amendment also revises transformation capacity standards for substations operating at the 1150 kV level. The maximum transformation capacity for load-serving and generation pooling substations has been proposed at 12,600 MVA. To support voltage regulation at ultra-high-voltage levels, the draft introduces standard bus reactor sizes of 220 MVAr and 300 MVAr.

In addition to transmission system changes, the annexures of the manual have been updated with revised seasonal load factors covering summer, winter, and monsoon periods. The draft also includes updated renewable energy capacity factors for solar and wind power projects to reflect evolving generation patterns in the country.

The CEA has requested all stakeholders to submit their feedback and suggestions by June 8, 2026. Comments can be sent electronically to the Chief Engineer of the Power System Planning & Appraisal Division-II.

Mahagenco Renewable Energy Limited Invites Bids For 8×25 MW Solar Hybrid Project Consultancy In Maharashtra

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20th May 2026

Brief NIT_Solar final_20260519124940619 Download

Mahagenco Renewable Energy Limited has invited bids for consultancy and project management services for a large-scale solar hybrid project in Maharashtra. The company issued a Notice Inviting Tender (NIT) under Tender No. MREL/2026-27/SOLAR HYBRID PMS/T03 on May 19, 2026, for the development of an 8×25 MW grid-connected solar power plant integrated with a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS).

The tender has been floated to appoint an agency that will provide end-to-end consultancy and project management support for the project. The selected bidder will be responsible for preparing Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), developing bid specifications, managing tendering activities, and reviewing and approving detailed engineering and material inspection works related to the project.

According to the tender details, the scope of work has been divided into three separate modules. Module A covers Pre-FEED Engineering activities, including pre-feasibility studies, financial modelling, energy yield analysis, and conceptual design of major systems. Module B focuses on the preparation of tender specifications, evaluation of bids up to the issuance of the Letter of Award (LoA), along with scrutiny and approval of design engineering documents submitted by the EPC contractor. Module C includes Project Management Consultancy (PMC) services, which involve project execution monitoring, quality assurance, safety compliance, testing, and overall coordination support during implementation.

Interested bidders can obtain the tender documents through the Bharat e-tendering portal after paying a non-refundable tender fee of Rs. 17,700, inclusive of GST. In addition, bidders are required to pay a non-refundable tender processing fee of Rs. 29,500 through NEFT or RTGS directly to MahaGenco REL.

The company has also specified technical and financial eligibility requirements for participation. Bidders must have a Minimum Average Annual Turnover (MAAT) of Rs. 5 crore during the last three financial years from FY 2023-24 to FY 2025-26. Additionally, the bidder’s net worth in the latest financial year should be at least 25 percent of the paid-up share capital or partner’s capital account in the case of LLPs.

As per the tender schedule, the download of tender documents and acceptance of fees started on May 19, 2026. The last date for submission of bidder queries is June 11, 2026, while the online pre-bid meeting will be conducted on June 12, 2026. The deadline for tender fee acceptance and document download is June 25, 2026.

The final submission date for online techno-commercial and price bids, along with the Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) is June 29, 2026. Physical submission of the techno-commercial bid is scheduled for June 30, 2026, while the opening of techno-commercial bids will take place on July 1, 2026. The date for opening price bids of qualified bidders will be communicated separately through email.

The EMD amount for the tender has been fixed at Rs. 5 lakh. MahaGenco REL has stated that it reserves the right to cancel or withdraw the tender process at any stage without assigning any reason.

Explained – Heatwaves Vs. Solar Efficiency: Understanding The Impact Of Peak Summer Temperatures On Solar PV Plant Performance

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19th May 2026