Home Blog Page 51

NLC India Renewables Forms 51:49 JV With OREDA For Green Energy Projects

0
NLC India Renewables and OREDA joint venture signing ceremony for green energy projects
Officials sign a joint venture agreement for green energy projects at a solar and wind power site.

NLC India Renewables Limited (NIRL), a wholly owned subsidiary of state-owned NLC India Limited, has formed a new joint venture with the Odisha Renewable Energy Development Agency (OREDA) to develop green energy power plants in Odisha.

The new joint venture has been incorporated as NIRL OREDA RENEWABLES LIMITED, with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs issuing its Certificate of Incorporation on August 31, 2026.

Under the agreed ownership structure, NIRL will hold a 51% equity stake in the company, while OREDA will hold the remaining 49%. The arrangement gives NIRL majority ownership while enabling both organisations to work together on renewable energy development.

The formation of the joint venture was disclosed by NLC India to the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) and BSE Limited. The disclosure was submitted by Sushanta Kumar Panda, Company Secretary and Compliance Officer of NLC India, under Regulation 30 of the SEBI Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements Regulations, 2015.

The partnership is expected to support the development of clean energy generation capacity through collaboration between NLC India’s renewable energy arm and Odisha’s state renewable energy agency. It also reflects NLC India’s broader strategy to expand its renewable energy portfolio and strengthen its presence in the clean energy sector.

India’s Power Capacity to Surpass 2,000 GW by 2047, Solar to Cross 1,100 GW: ENCIS Outlook

0

India’s installed electricity capacity is projected to exceed 2,000 GW by 2047, nearly four times the current level, driven by a rapid expansion in clean energy, according to the India’s Power & Energy Transformation Outlook report released by the Energy & Climate Initiatives Society (ENCIS).

The report was unveiled at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi, during the inaugural session of Bharat Electricity, POWERGEN India & Indian Utility Week 2026. It projects solar power capacity to rise from around 119 GW currently to more than 1,100 GW, highlighting the scale of infrastructure, technology and policy support required to meet India’s long-term energy ambitions.

According to the report, non-fossil sources account for 53% of India’s installed electricity capacity of around 540 GW, putting the country five years ahead of its target. Meanwhile, peak electricity demand has nearly tripled since 2000 and is forecast to reach 366 GW by 2032, representing a 34% increase, driven by emerging loads from data centres, electric mobility and green hydrogen.

The report said India will need to significantly accelerate renewable energy deployment to reach 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, while maintaining grid reliability. Grid-scale energy storage capacity is expected to require a nearly 40-fold increase to 200 GWh by 2030.

Distribution infrastructure remains a key challenge, with the report noting that nationwide smart meter deployment is expected to reach 250 million units by FY2028. This could enable real-time management of around 90% of consumer demand and help bring average AT&C losses below 10% nationally.

Despite progress in reducing distribution losses to around 15%, the report highlighted bottlenecks in the distribution segment, with 44 GW of renewable energy capacity reportedly held up due to contractual or financing issues.

Coal is expected to continue playing a role in maintaining grid stability, with coal-fired power plants required to operate at a minimum technical load of 40% and achieve ramp rates of 3% by 2030, according to the outlook.

The report estimates that India’s power sector will require around $500 billion in investment by 2030, while more than one million skilled workers will be needed to support the country’s digitalisation and clean energy transition.

The report was released in the presence of senior government and industry representatives, including former Ministry of New and Renewable Energy Secretary Bhupinder Singh Bhalla, former CEA Chairperson P.K. Pujari, Ministry of Power Additional Secretary D. Sai Baba, Central Electricity Authority Chairperson Ghanshyam Prasad, Bihar Energy Minister Shailesh Kumar, Delhi Minister Ashish Sood and ENCIS Director General Abhishek Bhatnagar.

The three-day event, organised by ENCIS, is bringing together more than 15,000 professionals, 250 exhibitors and 150 global thought leaders from 40 countries. Participants and delegations from countries including the US, UK, Germany, France, Japan, South Korea, Australia, UAE and Singapore are attending the event in New Delhi.

With the theme “Shaping Energy Sovereignty • Building Climate Resilience • Powering Viksit Bharat,” the event focuses on clean energy technologies, manufacturing, infrastructure and international collaboration to support India’s evolving power sector.

Perovskite-Silicon Tandem Technology Advances Toward Commercial-Scale Solar

0
Researchers testing photovoltaic panels in a modern laboratory
Researchers test photovoltaic panels in a bright, high-tech laboratory overlooking the city.

The University of Sydney is advancing the development of perovskite-silicon tandem solar cells with AU$7.25 million in funding from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), supporting efforts to move the next-generation photovoltaic technology closer to commercial deployment.

The five-year project, scheduled to commence in 2027, will be led by Professor Anita Ho-Baillie, the University’s John Hooke Chair of Nanoscience, in partnership with Australian solar panel manufacturer Unison Solar Energy. The funding has been awarded through ARENA’s Ultra Low-Cost Solar PV Funding Round.

Perovskite-silicon tandem technology is emerging as a promising pathway for increasing solar cell efficiency beyond the practical limits of conventional silicon. By combining a perovskite top cell with a silicon-based cell, tandem architectures can capture a broader range of the solar spectrum. While silicon has a theoretical efficiency limit of around 30%, perovskite-silicon tandem cells have the potential to approach approximately 40%.

Professor Ho-Baillie’s research team has already demonstrated Australia’s first 30% efficient perovskite-silicon tandem cells across both small and larger device areas, with results independently confirmed by recognized testing centers.

Beyond efficiency, the next phase of development will focus heavily on reliability and durability—two critical requirements for commercial adoption. The team has previously demonstrated tandem cells capable of passing industry-standard testing for thermal extremes and moisture exposure. Upcoming work will assess resistance to ultraviolet radiation and mechanical stresses while examining the cells’ ability to retain conversion efficiency over the expected operating life of solar panels.

The partnership with Unison Solar Energy will also provide an industry pathway for translating laboratory advances into commercially manufacturable solar products designed for demanding Australian operating conditions.

The project reflects a broader shift in tandem PV research from achieving record efficiencies toward solving long-term stability, reliability and manufacturing challenges. Successfully addressing these areas could position perovskite-silicon tandems as an important next-generation technology for higher-efficiency solar modules.

REC Power Development and Consultancy Hands Over Luhri Power Transmission SPV To Terralight Solar

0
Representational image. Credit: Canva

REC Power Development and Consultancy Ltd. (RECPDCL), a wholly owned subsidiary of REC Ltd., has handed over Luhri Power Transmission Limited, a project-specific Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), to the successful bidder, Terralight Solar Energy Tinwari Private Limited. The handover took place on August 21, 2026.

The SPV will be responsible for facilitating the development of the transmission system required to evacuate power from the Sunni Dam Hydroelectric Power Project (SDHEP) and Luhri Stage-I Hydroelectric Power Project (LHEP-I). The transmission project will be developed on a Build, Own, Operate and Transfer (BOOT) basis.

The SPV was formally handed over by Rajkumar Sonkar, HoD (CS), RECPDCL, to Nitin Mahajan, General Manager (Bidding), Terralight Solar Energy Tinwari Private Limited. Senior officials from RECPDCL, Terralight Solar Energy Tinwari Private Limited and Central Transmission Utility of India Ltd. were also present during the handover.

The transmission scheme includes the establishment of a 400/220 kV Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS) Nange Pooling Station in Himachal Pradesh. It will also include a 400 kV double-circuit transmission line between Nange Pooling Station and Koldam, covering approximately 50 kilometres. Several other associated transmission works will also be undertaken as part of the project.

The project is aimed at creating the required transmission infrastructure for the evacuation of electricity generated by the upcoming hydroelectric projects in the region. The transmission system is planned to be commissioned by October 15, 2029, in line with the scheduled commissioning of the Sunni Dam and Luhri Stage-I hydro projects.

The estimated cost of the transmission project is approximately Rs. 839.55 crore. Its timely completion is expected to support the reliable evacuation and integration of hydropower into the electricity grid.

TotalEnergies Appoints Emmanuelle Guégan as President Marketing & Services

0

TotalEnergies has appointed Emmanuelle Guégan as President Marketing & Services and a member of its Executive Committee, effective September 1, 2026.

Guégan succeeds Bernard Pinatel, who is retiring from the company. She previously served as Senior Vice President, Corporate Affairs for TotalEnergies’ Exploration & Production division, a position she held since October 2025.

TotalEnergies Chairman and CEO Patrick Pouyanné thanked Pinatel for his longstanding contribution to the company, particularly during his decade on the Executive Committee, and welcomed Guégan to the leadership team.

Following the appointment, TotalEnergies’ Executive Committee comprises Patrick Pouyanné, Emmanuelle Guégan, Aurélien Hamelle, Stéphane Michel, Catherine Remy, Jean-Pierre Sbraire, Namita Shah, Vincent Stoquart and Nicolas Terraz.

The leadership change comes as Guégan takes charge of TotalEnergies’ Marketing & Services activities, while Pinatel retires following his tenure with the company.

UPCL Invites Bids For Standalone BESS Projects Across Uttarakhand

0

Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited (UPCL), a Government of Uttarakhand undertaking based in Dehradun, has invited electronic tenders for the implementation of standalone Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) across various locations and substations in the state. The project will be developed through the Tariff-Based Competitive Bidding (TBCB) mechanism under tender specification number CCP-1/27/2026-2027.

The tender has been divided into three regional clusters. Cluster-A covers Rudrapur, Kashipur, Haldwani and Pithoragarh circles and has an estimated cost of ₹180.50 crore. Bidders for this package must submit an earnest money deposit of ₹3.61 crore and a processing fee of ₹8.45 lakh.

Cluster-B includes Dehradun Urban and Dehradun Rural circles, with an estimated project cost of ₹115.50 crore. The earnest money requirement is ₹2.31 crore, while the processing fee is ₹5.40 lakh.

Cluster-C covers Tehri, Haridwar and Roorkee circles and has the highest estimated cost at ₹206.30 crore. The package requires an earnest money deposit of ₹4.13 crore and a processing fee of ₹9.63 lakh.

For all three clusters, the tender document costs ₹29,500, including GST. UPCL will conduct a pre-bid conference in both online and offline formats on September 5, 2026, at 11:30 AM. The meeting will be held at Victoria Cross Vijeyta Gabar Singh Urja Bhawan on Kanwali Road, Dehradun.

Interested bidders must submit their online tender requests and final bids, including offline submissions, by September 15, 2026, before 5:00 PM.

The technical bids will be opened on September 16, 2026. Cluster-A bids will open at 11:30 AM, Cluster-B at 11:45 AM and Cluster-C at 12:00 PM.

The BESS initiative is aimed at strengthening energy management and improving grid stability across Uttarakhand. Detailed tender documents and submission guidelines are available through the state’s e-tendering portal.

Tata Power Renewable Energy Commissions 100 MW Solar Project in Tamil Nadu

0

Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited (TPREL), a subsidiary of Tata Power, has commissioned a 100 MW Group Captive Solar Project at Vellalankottai and Nalandhula villages in Kayathar, Tamil Nadu.

The project, identified as TNGC-2, is expected to strengthen TPREL’s renewable energy portfolio, taking its utility portfolio to 12.3 GW and its operational capacity beyond the 7 GW milestone.

The project will supply renewable power to three Tata Group companies. TP Solar Limited will receive 40.625 MW, Tata Electronics Private Limited will receive 53.125 MW, and Tata Realty and Infrastructure Limited will receive 6.25 MW.

According to the company, the solar project is designed to generate around 240.63 million units (MUs) of electricity annually and is expected to offset approximately 1.5 lakh tonnes of CO₂ emissions every year.

A key feature of the project is the deployment of Flexible Terrain Compatible (FTC) Single Axis Tracker technology, described by TPREL as a first-of-its-kind deployment for a Tata project in India. The project comprises 2,61,660 Mono PERC bifacial solar modules, designed to enhance energy generation and operational efficiency across varying terrain conditions.

The electricity generated by the project will be transmitted through the Kayathar 400 kV Grid Substation (GSS) for evacuation and supply to the beneficiary companies.

With the latest commissioning, TPREL’s 7 GW operational renewable energy capacity comprises more than 5.7 GW of solar and 1.3 GW of wind assets. The company has a further 5.3 GW of renewable energy capacity under development, including 2.2 GW of solar and 3.1 GW of wind projects.

These projects are planned for phased commissioning over the next 6 to 24 months, according to the company.

The commissioning comes as India continues to expand its renewable energy capacity in line with its target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030. TPREL has a portfolio spanning utility-scale solar, floating solar and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects.

Andaman & Nicobar Invites Bids For 20 MWh Grid-Connected BESS At Dollygunj

0

The Electricity Department of the Andaman & Nicobar Administration has invited online bids to establish a 20 MWh grid-connected Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Dollygunj in Sri Vijaya Puram. The tender has been issued on behalf of the President of India under F.No. EL/PL-II/3/2026/2544.

The proposed BESS will be developed under the Renewable Energy Service Company (RESCO) model on a Build-Own-Operate (BOO) basis. The contract will remain valid for 12 years and will include comprehensive operation and maintenance (O&M) responsibilities. The project is aimed at improving grid stability and supporting peak demand management in the South Andaman Region.

The indicative capital cost of the project has been set at ₹60 crore, which will serve as the benchmark for determining financial requirements. Bidders are required to submit an Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) or bid security of ₹1.20 crore. However, eligible Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) meeting the specified registration requirements will be exempt from the bid security.

Details regarding the Performance Bank Guarantee (PBG), bid submission schedule, pre-bid meeting and technical bid opening dates will be available in the Tender Information Schedule (TIS) on the Central Public Procurement Portal (CPPP).

The project is expected to strengthen the electricity network and provide additional flexibility for managing peak demand in South Andaman.

India Daily: PM Surya Ghar Subsidy, POWERGRID Acquires Fatehgarh II, BPCL Tenders 1 MW Solar, VPA Advances 10 MW Solar, CEA Backs Flexible Thermal

0
Representational image. Credit: Canva

PM Surya Ghar Offers Up to ₹78,000 Solar Subsidy

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has detailed the Central Financial Assistance guidelines for residential rooftop solar under PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. With an overall outlay of ₹75,021 crore, the programme targets rooftop solar installations across one crore households by FY 2026–27. Residential consumers can receive ₹30,000 per kW for the first 2 kW and ₹18,000 for the third kW, taking the maximum subsidy to ₹78,000. Subsidised installations must also comply with domestic content requirements for solar cells and modules.

**Read More**


POWERGRID Acquires 100% Stake in Fatehgarh II

Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID) has acquired a 100% stake in Fatehgarh II Transmission Limited for approximately ₹19.11 crore after emerging as the successful bidder through the Tariff Based Competitive Bidding route. The project SPV will establish an Inter-State Transmission System involving the installation and commissioning of two Synchronous Condenser units at the 765/400/220 kV Fatehgarh-II Pooling Station, together with associated bays. The project will be implemented on a Build, Own, Operate and Transfer basis, strengthening infrastructure required for reliable transmission system operations.

**Read More**


BPCL Invites Bids for 1 MW Solar Project

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) has invited bids for the installation of a 1 MW grid-connected solar power project, further advancing renewable energy deployment across its operations. The tender adds to BPCL’s broader efforts to integrate clean electricity into its energy infrastructure and reduce dependence on conventional power sources. The proposed grid-connected facility will contribute additional captive renewable generation while supporting the company’s wider decarbonisation and energy-transition ambitions. The initiative reflects the growing adoption of distributed and captive solar projects among India’s public-sector energy companies as they progressively expand their renewable energy portfolios.

**Read More**


VPA Tenders Upgrades for 10 MW Solar Plant

Visakhapatnam Port Authority has invited bids to strengthen electrical infrastructure associated with its 10 MW Solar PV Plant. The ₹11.03 lakh tender includes replacement of three Availability Based Tariff meters, NABL calibration of six 33 kV current transformers and six potential transformers, and associated electrical works. The scope also includes an 11 kV outdoor metering cubicle and a new HT meter for monitoring electricity consumption at the EQ-1A berth. The selected contractor will have 45 days to complete the work, with online bid submissions closing on September 21, 2026.

**Read More**


CEA Backs Flexible Thermal Power for 500 GW Target

The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has highlighted the importance of flexible operation of thermal power plants as India works towards integrating significantly higher levels of renewable energy and achieving its 500 GW non-fossil energy capacity target. Greater operational flexibility in the thermal fleet can help balance fluctuations in solar and wind generation, maintain grid stability and support reliable electricity supply. The approach reflects India’s evolving power system, where conventional generation will increasingly need to complement variable renewable resources while storage, transmission and other flexibility solutions continue to expand.

Read More

Indian Green Energy Stocks Show Mixed Trend As Adani Green Leads Gains (01 September 2026)

0
Indian green energy stocks: mixed trend, September 01, 2026; Adani Green leads gains +5.8% (INR 285.50); Tata Power -1.2% (INR 410.20); Sterling & Wilson -2.5% (INR 612.00); Suzlon Energy +0.7% (INR 55.30); Renew Power +0.3% (INR 75.10); NHPC Ltd +1.9% (INR 103.80); market data real-time, 01 September 2026.
Indian renewable-energy stocks show mixed movement, led by Adani Green’s 5.8% gain on September 1, 2026.

Indian stock markets ended largely subdued on September 1, 2026, with benchmark indices facing mild pressure. The S&P BSE Sensex closed at around 76,944.28 points, down 0.02%, while the Nifty 50 declined 0.41% to about 23,980.55 points. Despite the weak overall market trend, green energy and renewable stocks witnessed mixed movements, with investors showing interest in select large companies while booking profits in several mid-cap stocks.

Adani Green Energy was among the strongest performers in the renewable energy segment. The stock gained more than 3.4% on both exchanges, trading at around Rs 1,260.00 on the BSE and Rs 1,257.90 on the NSE. Reliance Industries also advanced, gaining up to 2% to close at Rs 1,302.60 on the NSE.

Tata Power recorded a smaller gain of around 0.84%, ending at Rs 349.90. Indian Oil Corporation also posted modest gains on the BSE. Juniper Green Energy showed mixed performance, rising 2.54% on the NSE despite declining on the BSE.

In contrast, several battery manufacturers and renewable energy equipment companies faced selling pressure. Kabra Extrusion was among the biggest losers, falling 4.08% on the BSE to Rs 575.50 and 3.05% on the NSE. Websol Energy, a solar wafer manufacturer, declined 3.63% to Rs 73.87 on the BSE.

Olectra Greentech and Insolation Energy also dropped more than 2%, reflecting profit-booking across parts of the clean energy manufacturing segment.

Large infrastructure and power companies also remained under pressure. Larsen & Toubro fell about 1% to Rs 3,990, while JSW Energy declined 1.89% on the BSE to Rs 518. Battery companies Exide Industries and Amara Raja Energy & Mobility also ended lower, losing around 0.7% to 1.6%.

Other renewable stocks, including NTPC Green Energy, Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy, Borosil Renewables and Inox Wind, remained mostly range-bound or slightly lower.

Overall, the session highlighted stock-specific movements in the green energy sector, with investors favoring established renewable power companies while reducing exposure to some specialized equipment and manufacturing stocks.

Hijau Raises $10 Million to Scale Distributed Solar Projects Across Indonesia

0
Representational image. Credit: Canva

Indonesian distributed solar developer PT Investasi Hijau Selaras, known as Hijau, has raised $10 million in an early-stage funding round to expand its clean energy infrastructure across Indonesia. The investment was provided by Singapore-based fund manager Clime Capital through its South East Clean Energy Fund II (SEACEF II).

The funding is expected to support Hijau’s growth at a time when Indonesia’s solar power market remains relatively underdeveloped compared with other Southeast Asian markets. With a large population, expanding industrial activity and increasing demand for cleaner energy, the country offers significant potential for distributed solar power.

Founded in 2017, Hijau develops rooftop solar projects mainly for commercial and industrial customers. The company follows a zero-capital-expenditure model, allowing businesses to install and use solar systems without making large upfront investments in equipment.

Under its business model, customers access solar installations through operating leases. This approach allows businesses to reduce their electricity costs while avoiding the financial burden of purchasing and installing solar equipment. It also helps customers lower their carbon emissions and improve their sustainability performance.

Hijau plans to use the new funding to accelerate the development of its project pipeline and increase the number of operational solar installations across the country. The company also expects that a larger portfolio of operating projects will strengthen its financial position and help it attract debt financing for future expansion.

Victor Samuel, president director of Hijau, said the investment from Clime Capital would help the company expand its clean energy solutions nationwide. He also emphasized the company’s focus on maintaining quality, safety and sustainable operations as it grows.

Clime Capital is regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and manages the SEACEF I and SEACEF II funds. The investment firm has teams operating across several Southeast Asian markets, including Indonesia, Vietnam, India, the Philippines and Singapore.

The firm has previously invested in clean technology and energy transition companies in the region, including Vietnam-based businesses such as Levanta, EBOOST and Stride.

John Colombo, Clime Capital’s country manager for Indonesia, said early investment in commercial distributed energy can provide Indonesian businesses with immediate savings on electricity bills. He added that supporting such projects can also help accelerate the country’s wider transition toward cleaner energy.

The latest investment marks an important step for Hijau as it seeks to scale its rooftop solar business and contribute to Indonesia’s growing clean energy sector.

Philippines DA, DOE Plan 3 Million-Hectare Farmland Shield Against Solar Expansion

0
Representational image. Credit: Canva

The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Energy (DOE) are working on a joint plan to protect important agricultural land from excessive solar and renewable energy development in the Philippines.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. has proposed geofencing around about 3 million hectares of flat agricultural land, particularly areas used for rice production. The proposal is aimed at protecting prime farmland as the country expands renewable energy capacity and prepares for the next Green Energy Auction (GEA).

The initiative follows discussions between Tiu Laurel and Energy Secretary Sharon Garin on how the Philippines can increase solar power generation while protecting land that is essential for food production.

Under the proposed system, the DA would digitally map priority agricultural areas and establish clear geographic boundaries around them. These maps would help renewable energy developers identify areas where solar and other energy projects should not be developed. At the same time, the system could guide investors toward locations that are more suitable for renewable energy projects.

Tiu Laurel said the DA has already identified flat rice-producing lands that should remain dedicated to agriculture. The next step is to digitally map and geofence these areas.

The agriculture department is also seeking ways for the renewable energy transition to directly benefit farmers and fisherfolk, especially by reducing their electricity costs. Officials are exploring possible arrangements that could connect renewable energy suppliers under the GEA, Green Energy Option (GEO), and Retail Competition and Open Access framework with qualified agricultural consumers.

Potential beneficiaries could include irrigation systems, rice mills, post-harvest facilities, cold storage plants, slaughterhouses, farms, fishponds, and other food production facilities. These operations often depend heavily on electricity, making energy costs an important part of overall production expenses.

The DOE is studying how renewable energy suppliers and distribution utilities could participate in such arrangements. The two agencies are also discussing the proposal with the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), including the possibility of allowing savings from the GEO to be reflected in electricity rates for eligible agricultural users.

The DA and DOE are targeting October 2026 to sign a memorandum of agreement that would formalize their cooperation.

As part of the initiative, the DA plans to identify between 1,000 and 2,000 priority agricultural areas. These locations will then be cross-checked with existing and awarded energy projects to identify potential conflicts and prevent overlapping land use.

Tiu Laurel has also asked the DOE to provide a list of ongoing and awarded renewable energy projects. This information will allow regional agriculture officials to distinguish between approved developments and projects that are still being evaluated.

Agriculture Undersecretary Roger V. Navarro and Energy Undersecretary Rowena Cristina L. Guevarra have been tasked with developing a Farm-to-Energy Framework in coordination with the ERC. The framework will explore ways for organized farmers and fisherfolk to gain greater access to renewable energy and reduce their electricity expenses.

According to Navarro, the framework could help agricultural energy users lower power costs, generate savings, and strengthen incomes across the farming and fisheries sectors.

The DA-DOE initiative reflects the Philippines’ effort to balance two major national priorities: expanding clean energy capacity and maintaining food security. The agencies aim to ensure that renewable energy development supports economic growth without reducing the agricultural land needed to produce food for the country.

Ministry Of Energy Targets 5,200 Schools For Solar Power Installations In Saudi Arabia

0
Representational image. Credit: Canva

The Ministry of Energy has announced a major initiative to install solar energy systems in government schools across the Kingdom. The program is aimed at improving energy efficiency, reducing electricity consumption, and supporting long-term sustainability goals across the public education sector.

Under the initiative, more than 5,200 schools have been identified for solar panel installations. Work is already progressing, with solar systems successfully installed at more than 600 schools. The project is expected to generate significant energy savings once all targeted facilities are equipped with solar power systems.

According to the ministry, the initiative is expected to achieve annual energy savings of more than 110 million kilowatt-hours (kWh). This reduction could significantly lower the dependence of government schools on electricity supplied through the conventional grid and improve the overall efficiency of public facilities.

The solar installations will allow schools to generate clean electricity for their own operational requirements. By producing power on-site, educational facilities can reduce their reliance on traditional electricity sources while making greater use of renewable energy.

The initiative is also expected to improve the operational performance of school buildings. Solar energy systems, combined with improvements in energy management, can help reduce unnecessary electricity consumption and support more efficient use of energy across school campuses.

Beyond financial and operational benefits, the program has an important environmental objective. Increasing the use of renewable energy in public infrastructure can contribute to lower emissions and support national sustainability and environmental targets.

The installation of solar systems in schools also provides an opportunity to promote awareness of renewable energy among students and communities. Schools can serve as practical examples of how clean energy technologies can be integrated into everyday public infrastructure.

With thousands of educational facilities targeted under the program, the Ministry of Energy’s initiative represents a significant effort to modernize government infrastructure through renewable energy. Once completed, the project is expected to strengthen energy efficiency across the education sector while supporting the Kingdom’s broader transition toward cleaner and more sustainable energy use.

LONGi Reports H1 2026 BC Sales Grew 125% YoY, With Overseas Module Revenue Share Rising to Over 65%

0

In the first half of 2026, LONGi achieved operating revenue of RMB 27.045 billion. The company recorded BC module sales of 19.55 GW, a robust 125% year-on-year increase, with the shipment mix share rising significantly to over 65%. Overseas module shipments grew by more than 26% year-on-year, while the overseas revenue share of its module business climbed to above 65%. In energy storage, cumulative signed orders exceeded 3 GWh. Leveraging its differentiated BC technology, LONGi has established a clear competitive edge, showing visible structural improvements.

Phased Demand Correction Amid Industry-Wide Low-Margin Equilibrium

During the period, LONGi’s profitability was affected by industry-wide supply-demand imbalances, suboptimal capacity utilisation, and high silver prices in Q1 that pushed up costs and resulted in losses on some utility-scale orders. Additionally, the company incurred losses from associated enterprises and foreign exchange losses due to RMB appreciation, which further weighed on net income.

At the industry level, demand retracement was a key backdrop. According to data from China’s National Energy Administration, new PV installations in the country reached 72.07 GW in H1 2026, down 66% year-on-year – a sharp cyclical decline driven by increased project return uncertainty under power tariff market reforms, grid integration constraints, and a high base effect from last year’s rush to install. This domestic demand slowdown has contributed to the first global decline in new PV installations in nearly two decades.

The supply-demand imbalance across the photovoltaic value chain remains unresolved, and the industry as a whole continues to operate in a low-margin phase, with core business profitability yet to recover. National policy measures aimed at curbing “internal competition” and market-driven capacity rationalisation will take time to materialise. Combined with a temporary slowdown in end-market demand and accelerating localisation trends in overseas markets, the timeline for exiting the current cycle trough remains uncertain. In this context, LONGi’s near-term pressure is consistent with broader industry challenges, and its losses are largely attributable to common industry factors. Encouragingly, supported by BC technology’s rising market share and an improved shipment mix, LONGi’s gross margin turned positive year-on-year in H1 2026, increasing by more than 2 percentage points.

BC Module Shipments Grow 125%; Overseas Markets Unlock New Growth

Against the overall volume pressure, both LONGi’s product portfolio and market structure showed clear improvements.

On the product front, in H1 2026 the company secured over 10 GW of BC module awards in domestic utility-scale procurement tenders, maintained a leading share in the C&I market, and saw rapid order growth in overseas high-end markets. BC module sales reached 19.55 GW, up 125% year-on-year, and represented over 65% of total module shipments. Meanwhile, LONGi continued to advance the national “PV+” rural revitalization program across the country, with more than 400 villages under construction.

In terms of shipment structure, the company deepened its sales organisation transformation, focused on high-value markets, optimised its shipment mix, and built competitive advantages in flexible supply chains and delivery capabilities centred on customer satisfaction. Wafer shipments reached 48.91 GW (including 18.98 GW for external sales), module shipments totalled 29.93 GW, and external cell sales were 0.86 GW. LONGi’s mono-crystalline wafers rank first globally in cumulative shipments over the past decade, and its modules have ranked among the global top two for five consecutive years.

Overseas markets remained generally robust. Mature European markets maintained steady growth, while emerging markets in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Africa expanded rapidly amid power shortages and rising demand for energy autonomy and security. In the reporting period, overseas module shipments rose more than 26% year-on-year, and overseas revenue accounted for over 65% of total module revenue. By region, Americas module shipments grew more than 36% year-on-year, Europe more than 34%, and Asia-Pacific more than 20%. The company secured leading positions in key markets including Europe, Latin America, Southeast Asia, Pakistan, and the UAE. In the wafer business, LONGi continued to expand into high-value overseas markets, maintaining its leading offshore market share.

Leveraging its proprietary energy storage integration technologies and global brand-channel advantages, LONGi advanced multiple major domestic and international energy storage project collaborations, accumulating over 3 GWh in signed orders in H1 2026, while commissioning benchmark projects in Germany, Italy, Finland, and elsewhere. BloombergNEF projects global energy storage deployment to reach 2,867 GW / 10,514 GWh (excluding pumped hydro) by 2036 – ten times the 2025 level. Energy storage has evolved from a supplementary asset into a core infrastructure component of the new power system, serving as a critical pillar of the global energy transition.

Financial Strength, Technology and Brand Reputation Forge Long-Term Value

While industry consolidation will take time, LONGi’s long-term value rests on three pillars: financial, technology and brand.

In terms of financial, amid sustained industry adjustments and cash-flow pressures, the company has deepened lean operations, reduced costs, and improved efficiency. Its asset-liability ratio and interest-bearing debt ratio remain at industry-leading healthy levels. With monetary funds exceeding RMB 48.6 billion, LONGi has built a strong financial buffer to navigate the cycle.

In terms of technology, LONGi has pursued breakthroughs in key mass-production technologies across PV and storage, commercialising multiple innovations including ACM technology, integrated conductive backsheet technology, shingling, hidden busbar, temperature-controlled alloy interconnection, smart module technology, and omnidirectional anti-soiling module technology – continuously expanding its BC technology and solar-storage ecosystem advantages. In the frontier of perovskite tandem cells, independently developed by the company and certified by the European Solar Test Installation (ESTI), its crystalline silicon-perovskite tandem solar cell achieved a conversion efficiency of 35.5%, once again setting a world record. In the first half of the year, LONGi obtained over 4,100 authorised patents of various types, including 630 granted patents related to BC technology, comprehensively strengthening its R&D capabilities in core PV-storage and ancillary equipment technologies.

In terms of brand, LONGi enjoys strong global recognition and trust. Its modules have won the “All Quality Matters” award for nine consecutive years, the RETC “Highest Achiever” award for eight consecutive years, and the Kiwa PVEL “Top Performer” award nine times in total. Its energy storage subsidiary, PotisEdge, has accumulated over 13 GWh of global deliveries with a zero-thermal-runaway record. For its exceptional global market performance and bankability, LONGi has been awarded the highest AAA rating in PV Tech’s Module Bankability survey for the 26th consecutive time, and continues to be listed as a Tier 1 PV module manufacturer and Tier 1 energy storage system manufacturer by BloombergNEF.

Today’s industry-wide supply-demand imbalances and phased demand corrections are characteristic of a cyclical trough. The rapid ramp-up of BC technology, rising overseas revenue share, solar-storage synergy, and a strong balance sheet combined with technology and brand moats together form the fundamental support for LONGi to weather the cycle. As policy guidance against “internal competition” and market-driven capacity rationalisation gradually take effect, the industry’s supply-demand balance is expected to be restored. Companies with strong technology and globalisation capabilities are well-positioned for long-term value creation.

NERSA Cancels Public Hearing On Seriti Green Energy’s Mpumalanga Electricity Trading Licence

0
Representational image. Credit: Canva

The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has cancelled a public hearing scheduled for 10 September 2026 concerning an electricity trading licence application by Seriti Green Energy (Pty) Ltd.

The hearing was planned to consider Seriti Green Energy’s application for a licence to trade electricity in Mpumalanga Province. Eskom currently serves as the main electricity distributor in the region. However, NERSA decided to cancel the scheduled public session after receiving no registrations from members of the public or industry stakeholders who wished to make representations on the application.

Public hearings are an important part of NERSA’s licensing process, allowing interested parties to present their views on proposed electricity-sector activities. In this case, the absence of registered participants meant that there was no public representation to be heard at the planned session.

NERSA is South Africa’s statutory energy regulator, established under the National Energy Regulator Act of 2004. The regulator oversees the country’s electricity, piped-gas and petroleum-pipeline industries. Its responsibilities are supported by several key laws, including the Electricity Regulation Act of 2006, the Gas Act of 2001 and the Petroleum Pipelines Act of 2003.

Seriti Green Energy’s application remains the subject of the regulatory process, with the cancellation specifically affecting the planned public hearing. The development highlights the role of public participation in NERSA’s assessment of energy-sector licensing applications.

KPI Green Energy Receives LOI for 76.6 MW DC Wind-Solar Hybrid Project in Gujarat

0
Representational image. Credit: Canva

KPI Green Energy Limited has received a Letter of Intent (LOI) for the development of a 33.6 MW/76.6 MW DC Wind-Solar Hybrid Power Project in Gujarat under a Group Captive arrangement. The company disclosed the development in a regulatory filing dated September 1, 2026.

The project comprises 33.6 MW of wind capacity and 33.6 MW AC/43 MW DC of solar capacity, aggregating to 33.6/76.6 MW DC. The project will be developed for a domestic private body corporate under the Group Captive framework.

As part of the project structure, a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) will be established for the development, ownership and operation of the hybrid power project in Gujarat.

KPI Green Energy said the project will strengthen its presence in the Commercial & Industrial (C&I) and Group Captive renewable energy segments, while enhancing its capabilities across wind, solar and hybrid power. The project will also add to the company’s order book and support its strategy of expanding through IPP, Group Captive and EPC opportunities.

The company is required to complete the project’s development, construction and commissioning within 14 months from Stage-2 connectivity, and in any case no later than December 31, 2027. The Energy Supply Agreement will have a 25-year term from the Commencement Date.

The latest announcement is consistent with reports published on September 1, 2026, which also identify the project as a 76.6 MW DC wind-solar hybrid development in Gujarat under a Group Captive arrangement.

Saatvik Green Energy Advances 2.4 GW N-TOPCon Solar Cell Facility in Odisha for ALMM List-II Enlistment

0
Representational image. Credit: Canva

Saatvik Solar Industries Private Limited, a material subsidiary of Saatvik Green Energy Limited, is progressing its 2.4 GW solar cell manufacturing facility in Ganjam, Odisha, towards enlistment under the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) List-II.

The facility has an applied manufacturing capacity of 2,400 MW and is being developed to manufacture high-efficiency solar cells based on N-TOPCon technology. Saatvik’s ALMM List-II submission covers Monocrystalline Bifacial N-TOPCon G12R solar cell technology under the Domestic Content Requirement (DCR) category, with Model No. SS-NTP-210R-16BB-BF.

Subject to approval and enlistment by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), the facility will be eligible for deployment in projects that require compliance with applicable domestic sourcing requirements. The development is expected to strengthen Saatvik’s presence further upstream in India’s solar PV manufacturing value chain.

According to Prashant Mathur, CEO, Saatvik Green Energy, the facility’s progression towards ALMM List-II enlistment marks an important milestone in the company’s efforts to establish advanced and competitive domestic solar cell manufacturing capabilities. The company said its focus remains on technology, scale and manufacturing capabilities to support India’s renewable energy ambitions.

The Odisha facility forms part of Saatvik’s broader manufacturing expansion strategy, which focuses on high-efficiency solar cell and module technologies. The plant will manufacture N-TOPCon G12R cells, designed to deliver higher conversion efficiency and power output, supporting the industry’s shift towards higher-performance photovoltaic products.

Saatvik Green Energy currently has 4.86 GW of solar module manufacturing capacity and is expanding its capabilities across solar cells and modules as part of its long-term manufacturing roadmap. The company also has operations spanning utility-scale solar power generation and energy storage solutions.

The development comes as India continues to strengthen domestic solar manufacturing and reduce supply-chain dependence on imported components. Saatvik said the combination of domestic cell production, advanced technology and DCR-compliant manufacturing will support supply-chain resilience and contribute to the development of a technology-driven solar manufacturing ecosystem in the country.

CHINT Highlights Grid Modernisation Solutions as Europe Faces Growing Connection Bottlenecks

0

CHINT has highlighted the need for accelerated grid modernisation in Europe as renewable energy integration, rising electricity demand and the growth of AI-driven data centres put increasing pressure on existing transmission and distribution infrastructure.

The company discussed the challenges and potential solutions during an executive roundtable held on August 25, 2026, titled “Grid Resilience at the Crossroads: Modernization, Renewables & CBAM, a Paradigm-Shifting Grid Load Driven by AI, and the New Investment Calculus.” The session examined Europe’s evolving grid requirements, renewable energy integration and the investment needed to strengthen grid resilience.

According to the industry context presented at the event, connection queues in major European markets can extend to seven to 10 years, with more than 1,500 GW of renewable energy projects reportedly awaiting grid connections. At the same time, electricity demand from AI data centres is expected to reach approximately 35 GW by 2030, adding further pressure to grid infrastructure.

The European Commission’s ETIP SNET paper estimates that Europe will require between €650 billion and €900 billion in grid infrastructure investment between 2026 and 2035 to support the energy transition and increasing electricity demand.

CHINT presented its portfolio of high-voltage and green-grid technologies aimed at addressing these infrastructure challenges. Its solutions include 1,000 kV low-loss and low-noise oil transformers, 750 kV natural-ester oil transformers and SF₆-free medium- and high-voltage switchgear, including 24 kV eco-friendly ring main units and 145 kV and 420 kV gas-insulated switchgear.

The company also highlighted solutions for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and data centre infrastructure, including cascading energy storage systems, 13.8 MW power conversion system-integrated substations, solid-state transformers, semiconductor circuit breakers and Data Center Power Pods.

CHINT said its solutions can provide a 20% to 35% total cost of ownership advantage, while offering shorter lead times compared with typical two- to four-year European OEM backlogs. The company has a global manufacturing capacity exceeding 10,000 units annually.

In Europe, CHINT has deployed its equipment across Italy, France, Germany, Spain, Poland, the Netherlands, Sweden and Greece. Its European offering includes independently certified KEMA type tests aligned with applicable European IEC standards.

The executive roundtable was moderated by Mathieu Leboulanger, General Manager, CHINT EEA, and featured Michel Serra, President, SuperGrid Institute; Paolo Miolo, Sales & Marketing Director, KEMA Labs; Beibei Zheng, VP, CHINT Global; and Dr. Naihu Li, VP, CHINT T&D and Head of Group R&D.

The discussions underscored the growing need for grid operators, technology providers and policymakers to accelerate infrastructure investment and deploy more flexible, resilient and sustainable grid technologies as Europe transitions towards a more electrified energy system.

Grew Solar Appoints Rajat Gupta as Head of Marketing & Communications

0

Grew Solar, an integrated solar manufacturer in India, has appointed Rajat Gupta as its Head of Marketing & Communications, strengthening its leadership team as the company expands its presence across domestic and international markets.

In his new role, Gupta will oversee the company’s brand strategy, corporate communications, digital marketing, customer engagement and market development initiatives. His responsibilities will include strengthening Grew Solar’s market positioning and supporting its business and product growth.

Gupta brings nearly two decades of professional experience across renewable energy, automotive, healthcare, consumer brands and corporate communications. His expertise spans brand building, go-to-market strategy, digital marketing, stakeholder engagement and business development.

Before joining Grew Solar, Gupta held leadership positions in the renewable energy sector, where he led strategic marketing initiatives, product launches, channel engagement programmes, digital transformation projects and integrated brand campaigns.

At Grew Solar, Gupta will focus on strengthening customer and partner relationships, expanding the company’s digital presence and supporting its broader growth strategy. The appointment comes as the company continues to expand its manufacturing capabilities and contribute to India’s clean energy transition.

Tata Power Seeks 25-Year Distribution Licence For Raipur, Chhattisgarh

0
Representational image. Credit: Canva

The Tata Power Company Limited has approached the Chhattisgarh State Electricity Regulatory Commission (CSERC) seeking a distribution licence to supply electricity in a large, geographically connected area of Raipur district. The application has been filed under Sections 14 and 15 of the Electricity Act, 2003, and seeks approval to operate as a parallel distribution licensee for 25 years.

The proposed licence area covers four tehsils—Raipur, including the Raipur Municipal Corporation, Dharsiwa, Mandir Hasoud, and Abhanpur. At present, electricity distribution in these areas is handled by Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited (CSPDCL), the existing distribution licensee.

Tata Power said the proposed parallel distribution model would support competition in the electricity distribution sector and provide consumers with greater choice. The company has submitted documents to CSERC to demonstrate its financial strength, technical capabilities, organisational structure, and operational experience.

Established in 1919, Tata Power has more than 100 years of experience in the power sector. The company currently operates distribution businesses in Mumbai, Delhi, Ajmer, and Odisha, where it manages four distribution companies. Across its distribution operations, Tata Power serves more than 12 million consumers.

As part of its application, Tata Power has presented a detailed investment and financing plan for developing the proposed distribution network in Raipur. The estimated capital investment is around ₹435 crore. The company plans to finance approximately 70% of this investment, or about ₹305 crore, through debt, while the remaining amount will be supported through equity.

To demonstrate its financial capability, Tata Power submitted a solvency certificate from HDFC Bank confirming solvency of up to ₹3,500 crore. The company has also cited its credit ratings of CRISIL AA+/Stable for long-term debt and CRISIL A1+ for short-term debt. Auditor-certified financial statements show that Tata Power had a net worth of ₹17,045.57 crore in FY 2024-25.

The company has proposed implementing the distribution infrastructure in phases over five years. The network would cater to domestic, commercial, and industrial consumers across the proposed licence area. During the initial period, before its own distribution infrastructure is fully developed, Tata Power has sought permission to use CSPDCL’s existing network. For this arrangement, it would pay wheeling charges as determined by CSERC.

The petition also includes several supporting documents, including affidavits, corporate information, organisational structures, details and resumes of key management personnel, and a five-year business plan.

CSERC will now examine Tata Power’s application and assess whether the company meets the required financial, technical, operational, and regulatory conditions for a parallel distribution licence. The Commission will consider the submitted documents and applicable provisions before deciding on the proposal.

If approved, Tata Power’s entry into Raipur’s electricity distribution sector could introduce a parallel supply option alongside CSPDCL, potentially increasing competition and giving eligible consumers greater choice in selecting their electricity distribution service provider.