India

India recorded its highest-ever annual solar capacity additions in 2021, despite the ongoing rise of component costs.

The Jharkhand Renewable Energy Development Agency (JREDA) has launched bidding for megawatt-scale, canal-top solar projects at three sites in the Indian state of Jharkhand.

A new report by JMK Research and IEEFA says that Indian solar manufacturers need to create a strong foundation for sustainable development by integrating raw materials into their R&D plans, rather than focusing solely on output.

Adani and Canadian PEM fuel cell producer Ballard Power Systems will examine various co-operation opportunities including fuel cell production.

NTPC has invited bids to carry out a feasibility study for canal-top, elevated module mounting structures and floating solar at its Tanda thermal power station in the Ambedkar Nagar district.

Fusion Fuel Green has developed a small PEM electrolyzer that will be used in a green hydrogen project in Iberia. Elsewhere, India’s Adani Group and Canada-based PEM fuel cell producer Ballard Power Systems have signed a memorandum of understanding to evaluate a joint investment in the commercialization of hydrogen fuel cells for mobility and industrial applications in India.

The solar project-ready site will be developed by state-run hydropower company THDC in a joint venture with the Uttar Pradesh New & Renewable Energy Development Agency. The International Finance Corporation will lend its expertise to attract private investment for the public-private partnership.

As Indian solar manufacturers relying on imported cells remain exposed to price fluctuations, timely commissioning and ramp-up of ongoing capex in the module manufacturing value chain remain critical in the near to medium term.

Production for the HyDeal project is planned to start in 2025; the total installed capacity is expected to reach 9.5 GW of solar power and 7.4 GW of electrolyzers by 2030. Elsewhere in the world, India and Brazil are preparing rules and laws to promote green hydrogen, while research activities continue to increase hydrogen fuel cell’s efficiency and hydrogen’s use in the aviation sector.

The Green Hydrogen Policy is designed to promote green hydrogen and green ammonia projects with provisions like a 25-year waiver of inter-state transmission system (ISTS) charges and ISTS connectivity priority for renewable energy capacity set up for the purpose.