SolarPower Plants – Making the Right Choice :
India has an ambitious target of setting up 100 GW of solar power by
2022. Out of this 40 GW capacity is expected from onsite solar power plants
located in the consumer’s premises. Solar technology and prices have matured as
a result of which solar power is an attractive option for industrial and
commercial consumers. Simultaneously, a number of solar companies are now
offering their EPC services. Due caution is required while selecting an EPC
company. Buyers need to evaluate EPC companies on technical as well as
commercial parameters.
Design :
Load analysis at a consumer’s facility
|
Improper designs have resulted in problems such as shading of solar modules
excess capacity etc. in many projects. A good solar design takes into
consideration parameters like shadows, location, structure loading and electricity
consumption pattern.
Material :
Use of
sub-standard materials in solar power plants has created problems for Buyers. Material
used in solar power plant can be broadly classified into three items based on
commercial value.
Solar Modules |
a) Modules – They make up about 55% of
cost of solar power plant. China has developed large manufacturing base which
allows manufacturing of solar modules at affordable cost. Modules of top tier
companies should be preferred.
Inverter |
b) Inverters – They are most important
components in the solar power system. They not only convert DC to AC but also
optimise generation as per changing site conditions. Inverters make up about 12-15%
of the cost of the solar project. Most of the inverter technology today is from
Europe. Leading inverter manufacturers should be preferred.
Balanceof the Plant |
c) Balance of Plant – Balance of plant
includes module mounting structures, LT panels, cables etc. They are often
given less attention compared to modules or inverters as value of these
components is lower. However selection of these components is also important
and affects performance of the solar plant.
Workmanship :
Improper shading of modules |
Good design
can only be of value if it is planned and executed properly. Good project
workmanship requires good project management practices, safety standards and material
handling practices.
Choosing the right EPC Company is important
for getting the most out of a solar power plant. While comparing companies,
Buyers should consider parameters like experience of past projects, complexity
of installations and understanding of technical aspects. If done and maintained
in the right way, a solar power plant will not only reduce electricity bills
but will also last long time.
Ashish Tikhe is the Senior Manager –
Strategy & New Business at Sunshot Technologies Private Limited. Sunshot Technologies is a leading on-site
solar power company. It provides customised solar power solutions industrial
and commercial electricity consumers.
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