Indian solar panels face US scrutiny over ‘links’ to China forced labour
Washington, August 27 US Customs and Border Protection has detained nearly $43 million in shipments of electronics equipment from India since October under a 2022 law banning goods made with forced labour, according to agency data, representing a new focus... Key Points
The TribuneReNew inaugurates 400 MW solar project in Rajasthan
New Delhi, Jul 24 (PTI) ReNew on Wednesday said it has inaugurated a 400 megawatt (MW) solar project in Rajasthan. Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma inaugurated the project in the presence of SECI Chairman R P Gupta, and ReNew’s Founder, Chairman and CEO Sumant Sinha, among other dignitaries, the company said in a statement. […] Key Points
ThePrintNASA’s Quest to Touch the Sun
The outer layers of the sun’s atmosphere are a blistering million degrees hotter than its surface. NASA sent a probe to find out why—by getting closer to the star than ever before. Key Points
WIREDNASA’s Quest to Touch the Sun
The outer layers of the sun’s atmosphere are a blistering million degrees hotter than its surface. NASA sent a probe to find out why—by getting closer to the star than ever before. Key Points
WIREDPictures: Strong solar storm hits earth; could disrupt communications; creates breathtaking auroras
The ongoing geomagnetic storm has escalated to an "extreme" level, rated 5 out of 5 by the Space Weather Prediction Center. A remarkable celestial event is... Key Points
The Tribune India
India's Oldest solar Observatory celebrates 125 years
The Observatory has a continuous daily record of the Sun, with more than 1.2 lakh digitised solar images and thousands of other images of the Sun recorded every day since the start of the 20th century. Key Points
ThePrintIndia to reimpose restrictions on procurement of solar modules from April 1
Import restrictions on solar modules return April 1, aiding local capacity. Exemptions exist for projects till March 31, 2024. Domestic manufacturing capacities are projected to grow significantly by 2026. Key Points
Economic TimesNarmada aarti to floating sun panels—holy Omkareshwar is putting MP on global solar map
The Omkareshwar Dam solar park is the most ambitious project of its kind in India. Set to be operational by 1 April, it will generate enough electricity to light up 9 lakh homes. Key Points
ThePrintAs largest pure play green financier, what is the long-term road ahead for IREDA? Pradip Kumar Das answers
IREDA, led by Pradip Kumar Das, showcases significant growth in renewable energy. They focus on solar, alternative sources, and aim to explore new areas like pump storage and green hydrogen. Despite challenges in financing, their commitment to sustainable solutions remains strong. Das says: As a responsible entity, we will continue to give our performance and best quality corporate governance standard which we are doing. Key Points
Economic TimesTotal solar Eclipse 2024: Why are solar eclipse glasses mandatory for viewing this rare celestial event?
Total solar Eclipse: It is mandatory to wear solar eclipse glasses to provide protection to the eyes. We can also use a pinhole projector or camera obscura. Key Points
Hindustan Times
Success in solar energy may be a curse for Chinese panel manufacturers
A tidal wave of investment in solar panels has led to a market glut, with prices sliding. Manufacturers are stricken but it’ll speed up the race for clean energy. Key Points
mintKarnataka: Industries Minister MB Patil signs up with Suzlon & Renaissance to get Rs 36,000 cr investment
Suzlon and Renaissance solar are planning to set up their units in Vijayapura district. Suzlon will invest Rs 30,000 crore and Renaissance solar has proposed Rs. 6,000 crore. Suzlon plans to start a 5,000 MW wind power unit, while Renaissance solar aims to expand its capacity to 20,000 MW by 2030. Key Points
Economic TimesOpen access solar capacity addition at record 3.2 GW in 2023: Report
India Business News: India added a record 3.2 gigawatt of open access solar capacity during 2023, posting a 6.66 per cent rise supported by factors, including reduced mod Key Points
Times Of IndiaPM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana: Can you apply? FAQs on eligibility, application process and other details answered
India Business News: The government recently launched the PM Surya Muft Bijli Yojana. By joining the scheme, households can save money on electricity bills and earn extra by selling excess power to DISCOMs. Here’s a simple guide to understand who can apply and how to avail of this scheme. Key Points
Times Of IndiaPM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana: Step-by-step guide on how to get subsidy in your bank account within 30 d
PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana: The Government has launched a massive campaign since the launch of the scheme for raising awareness and generating applications from interested households for the solar rooftop scheme. Households can register themselves on https://pmsuryaghar.gov.in to avail benefits under the scheme. Key Points
Economic Times
Cabinet approves rooftop solar subsidy scheme at an outlay of Rs 75,021 cr
The Cabinet approved the PM-Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana on Thursday, aiming to install rooftop solar panels in one crore households at a total cost of Rs. 75,021 crore. The scheme, launched by the Prime Minister on February 13, 2024, will provide substantive subsidies directly to people's bank accounts and offer heavily concessional bank loans to ensure no cost burden on the people. Key Points
Economic TimesEarth is absorbing more solar radiation, spurring climate shifts: Nasa
In its CERES Editon 4.2, Nasa says 2023 witnessed a major spike in Earth absorbing solar radiation, sparking worries about climate change patterns activities. Key Points
India TodayIndia wants to hook its population onto clean energy by boosting rooftop solar
India is streamlining the process for rooftop solar connections with government support and subsidies. However, the country still falls short of its targeted 40 gigawatts of rooftop solar power by 2022. Consumer awareness and buy-in from electricity companies are key to growth. Bureaucratic hurdles have been challenging, but interest in rooftop solar technology is increasing. Key Points
Economic TimesThe planet needs solar power. Can we build it without harming nature?
Solar energy development poses a threat to wildlife habitat, but measures such as wildlife corridors and native plants can mitigate the impact. However, the absence of federal guidelines, patchwork regulations, and funding challenges hinder the implementation of these measures. Collaboration between stakeholders is crucial for sustainable solar development. Key Points
Economic TimesBofA Securities buys Alpex solar stake in open market after 200% listing day return
The shares of Alpex solar nearly tripled investors' wealth on the first day of debut. The stock listed on the NSE SME platform with a premium of 186%, after which it rallied further to close the day at Rs 345 as against an issue price of Rs 115. Key Points
Economic Times
PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana; How to apply for new rooftop solar power scheme to avail 300 units free
PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana: Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on his official X account, “In order to further sustainable development and peoples wellbeing, we are launching the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. This project, with an investment of over Rs. 75,000 crores, aims to light up 1 crore households by providing up to 300 units of free electricity every month.” Key Points
Economic TimesAmerica Wanted a Homegrown solar Industry. China Is Building a Lot of It.
China’s biggest solar companies are expanding in the U.S., where they will reap generous government subsidies. Key Points
mintUS solar boom opens $2 billion India door to banned products from China
India's largest solar producer, Waaree Energies Ltd., has sent millions of panels to the US with components from a Chinese company whose products were repeatedly denied entry to the US market over concerns about forced labour. Key Points
mintSix solar firms face DRI probe for 'evasion of duty'
The probe is in connection with underpayment of customs and wrong declaration in the import of solar cells and solar modules from China between April 2022 to October 2023. The assessment so far indicates evasion of duty to the tune of ₹1,900 crore, officials said, suggesting it may exceed that as the probe proceeds. The evasion was carried out via the project import route and customs warehouse scheme. Key Points
Economic TimesWant to install rooftop solar? Delhi govt is here to help
The Delhi government is set to use satellite imagery for rooftop assessments to enhance solar power generation under the newly passed Delhi solar Policy 2024. The initiative aims to accurately analyze shadow and sunlight patterns throughout the year to calculate the power generation potential of rooftops. The policy encourages residents to install solar panels, offering incentives such as generation-based incentives, capital subsidies, and the opportunity to sell excess electricity. The government plans to launch a comprehensive portal featuring details of empanelled agencies and organize awareness camps to empower consumers with information about solar installations. Key Points
Economic Times
Kejriwal's Gift to Delhi: Earn Rs 900 monthly, plus enjoy zero electricity bills
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced the Delhi solar Policy 2024, offering generation-based incentives for rooftop solar panel installations. The policy also requires government buildings with an area of 500 square metres to install solar panels within three years. Atishi, the Power Minister of Delhi, stated that the policy was approved by the Cabinet and will be implemented in 10 days. Key Points
Economic TimesMassive eruption seen on the Sun. Experts warn of radiation storm
The impact of this solar flare has been immediate and multifaceted. One of the most noticeable effects was a shortwave radio blackout that swept over Australia. Key Points
India TodayCapitaLand India commissions captive solar plant in Tuticorin
India Business News: CapitaLand India Trust (CLINT) has set up its first captive solar power plant in Tuticorin in Tamil Nadu. The 21 MW solar plant will generate over 30 million kWh of electricity annually and meet the power supply needs of two million sq ft of office space. This will increase CLINT’s green energy usage by over 70%, reduce its carbon emissions by more than 17,000 tonnes, as well as reduce its need to purchase power. Key Points
Times Of IndiaWhat is Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana? FAQs on new solar scheme answered - Check eligibility, benefits
India Business News: Learn about the Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana, a new solar scheme launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Find answers to FAQs, check eligibility, and discover the benefits of this initiative. Get all the information you need about rooftop solar panels for households. Key Points
Times Of IndiaREC to lend Rs 1.20 lakh cr to power PSUs for solar rooftop projects
REC Ltd approves Rs 1.20 lakh crore line of credit for public sector power companies implementing rooftop solar projects under Pradhanmantri Suryodaya Yojana. The company to be project implementation agency for the rooftop solar project. Three segments covered: households, commercial/industrial, and government buildings. Government aims for 40 GW rooftop solar capacity. Key Points
Economic Times
PM Modi announces rooftop solar scheme, his 1st decision after Ram Temple inauguration
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the Pradhanmantri Suryodaya Yojana to install rooftop solar systems in 1 crore homes after the Ram temple ceremony in Ayodhya. This scheme aims to reduce electricity bills for the poor and middle class, while making India self-reliant in the energy sector. The government's previous solar power targets were not met, but rooftop solar energy generation reached 11 GW by the end of 2023. Key Points
Economic TimesAyodhya's ancient past has a modern connection — renewable energy
An intricate network of lenses and mirrors designed by scientists from CSIR and Central Building Research Institute will be used in the Ram temple in Ayodhya to channel sunlight on Ram Lalla's forehead. Ayodhya is being developed into a solar city, as a bow to the 'Suryavansh' of Lord Rama. Work is underway to develop Ayodhya as Uttar Pradesh's first solar city, including the installation of solar panels on government buildings and solar streetlights. Additionally, a 40 MW solar plant will be established on the banks of the Saryu. Key Points
Economic TimesIndia missed 2022 solar rooftop target. Will new policies help meet the revised deadline of 2026?
India's solar power generation target of 100 GW by 2022 was missed, with only 63.3 GW generated. Rooftop solar energy generation was just 11 GW, far short of the 40 GW target. Experts are unsure if the new deadline of March 2026 will be met. Rooftop solar is important for affordable power, reducing dependence on the grid, and improving access to electricity in remote areas. Lack of awareness, high initial costs, and lack of financing options are hindering residential adoption. Key Points
Economic TimesImpact imminent: Venus is about to lose some of its atmosphere
Nasa model predicts that Mercury will be the first to face the impact, potentially generating X-ray auroras on its barren surface. Then comes Venus. Key Points
India TodayWaaree Renewable Technologies stock hits new record high, zooms 50% in just 6 sessions; here's why
Waaree Renewable Technologies' stock has been on a bullish trend, gaining 50% in the last six trading sessions. In CY23, the company's shares saw a meteoric rise of over 296%, and in CY22, it generated a return of 63.62%. Key Points
mint
ISRO's mission to Sun: Aditya L1 reaches its destination; what next? 10 points
Aditya-L1, India's first solar observatory satellite, has successfully reached its designated orbit at Lagrange Point 1. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated ISRO for this landmark achievement. Key Points
mintAditya-L1, ISRO'S first solar spacecraft enters Sun's final orbit
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved a major milestone as they successfully completed the last manoeuvre to position the Aditya-L1 spacecraft into its designated orbit. Aditya-L1 is India's first space-based observatory dedicated to studying the Sun. The spacecraft has now reached its final destination, a distance of approximately 1.5 million kilometres from the Earth. Key Points
Economic TimesAditya-L1 in halo orbit: India's solar probe ready to Illuminate Sun's secrets
Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared the news on X, formerly Twitter, and said "India creates yet another landmark. India’s first solar observatory Aditya-L1 reaches it destination." Key Points
India TodayAditya-L1 spacecraft of ISRO to be placed in its final destination orbit today
India's ISRO is set to perform the final manoeuvre at 4 pm on Saturday to position the Aditya-L1 spacecraft, the country's first space-based solar observatory, into its designated orbit around Lagrange point 1 (L1) of the Sun-Earth system, 1.5 million kilometers from Earth. The unique halo orbit around L1 allows continuous observation of the Sun, providing real-time monitoring of solar activities and their impact on space weather. Launched in September, Aditya-L1 carries seven payloads to study the solar upper atmosphere, coronal heating, plasma dynamics, and other phenomena. Key Points
Economic TimesAditya-L1 to enter halo orbit today: Isro to fire engines at 4 pm
This strategic maneuver will position the spacecraft in a stable vantage point approximately 1.5 million kilometers from Earth, allowing it to maintain an uninterrupted view of the Sun. Key Points
India TodayIndia's Waaree to invest $1 billion in Texas solar panel factory
(Reuters) - India's top solar panel maker Waaree Energies on Thursday said it would invest up to $1 billion to build a factory in Texas to take advantage of soaring U.S. demand for clean energy. The Key Points
ThePrintPowerful solar flare knocks out radio communications. All about solar storms and their effects on Earth
NASA has captured the brightly colored imagery of a fiery flash on the suns surface, the phenomenon known as a Coronal Mass Ejection. It has already knocked out some radio communication on Earth for a short time on Thursday. Know how it may hit the Earth further and affect our lives soon. Key Points
Economic TimesMultiple geomagnetic storms headed towards Earth, more radio blackouts expected
The recent solar activity marks the strongest flare event recorded since September 10, 2017, when an X8.2 flare was observed. The current X2.8 flare from AR3514 is also one of the largest solar radio events ever documented, causing R3 (Strong) radio blackouts. Key Points
India TodayIndian solar industry still heavily reliant on Chinese imports
Theres been a rapid acceleration in Indias solar manufacturing capacity, but measures to increase self-reliance have not succeeded in an industry with fast-evolving technology and volatile prices, BloombergNEF said. Around two-thirds of Indias consumption of cells and 100% of wafers came from imports since the start of 2021, and this is unlikely to fall in 2024, BloombergNEF added. Key Points
Economic Times