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Kerala’s solar energy requirement for the next five years is estimated to be around 10 GW. This is based on the state’s current electricity consumption and the government’s plans to increase renewable energy generation.

The state government has set a target of generating 20% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2025. Solar power is expected to play a major role in achieving this target.

The state has already installed a significant amount of solar power capacity. As of March 2023, Kerala had 2.5 GW of solar power capacity installed. This is expected to increase to 5 GW by the end of 2023.

The state government is also planning to install another 5 GW of solar power capacity by 2025. This will bring the state’s total solar power capacity to 10 GW.

The installation of 10 GW of solar power capacity will help Kerala to reduce its dependence on imported electricity. It will also help the state to achieve its climate change goals.

The following are some of the benefits of increasing solar power generation in Kerala:

  • Reduced dependence on imported electricity: Kerala currently imports around 70% of its electricity. Increasing solar power generation will help the state to reduce its dependence on imported electricity.
  • Improved air quality: Solar power is a clean source of energy that does not produce any emissions. This will help to improve air quality in Kerala.
  • Increased employment opportunities: The installation of solar power projects will create new employment opportunities in Kerala.
  • Economic benefits: Solar power is a cost-effective source of energy. Increasing solar power generation will help to save Kerala money on its electricity bill.

The state government is taking a number of steps to promote solar power generation in Kerala. These steps include:

  • Providing subsidies for solar power projects
  • Offering tax breaks for solar power projects
  • Developing a solar-friendly regulatory environment

The state government’s efforts to promote solar power generation are expected to help Kerala achieve its renewable energy and climate change goals.

Return on Investment (ROI) refers to the financial benefits gained from an investment relative to its cost. When it comes to on-grid solar systems for domestic consumers in Kerala, several factors contribute to the ROI. Let’s explore them:

  1. Cost of the solar system: The initial cost of installing an on-grid solar system includes the solar panels, inverters, mounting structures, wiring, and installation charges. The total cost will vary depending on the size of the system and the quality of components used.
  2. Electricity generation: The amount of electricity generated by the solar system depends on various factors like the system capacity, geographical location, orientation, tilt angle, and shading. In Kerala, which receives a significant amount of sunlight, solar systems have good potential for electricity generation.
  3. Electricity savings: By generating solar power, homeowners can offset their electricity consumption from the grid. This leads to reduced electricity bills or even eliminates them entirely if the solar system generates enough power to cover the household’s needs.
  4. Feed-in Tariff (FiT) or net metering: In some regions, including Kerala, the excess electricity generated by the on-grid solar system can be fed back into the grid. This is facilitated through net metering, where the excess power is subtracted from the homeowner’s electricity bill or compensated at a specific feed-in tariff rate.
  5. System lifespan and maintenance: On-grid solar systems generally have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years with proper maintenance. Regular cleaning, inspection, and occasional component replacements are necessary to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
  6. Government incentives and subsidies: Governments often provide financial incentives and subsidies to promote solar energy adoption. These can significantly reduce the upfront cost of installing a solar system and improve the ROI.

To calculate the ROI, you’ll need to consider the upfront investment, annual electricity savings, potential feed-in tariff or net metering benefits, and the system’s lifespan. The ROI can be determined by dividing the cumulative financial benefits (savings and incentives) by the initial investment and expressing it as a percentage.

It’s advisable to consult with local solar installers or energy experts in Kerala who can provide specific information based on your location, electricity tariffs, and available incentives. They can also help estimate the system size and potential savings, which will be crucial in evaluating the return on investment for your specific situation.

 

 

On-grid solar, also known as grid-tied solar or grid-connected solar, refers to a solar power system that is connected to the local electrical grid. It allows the solar system to generate electricity and supply it directly to the home or business while also being able to draw electricity from the grid when needed.

Here’s how an on-grid solar system typically works:

  1. Solar Panels: The system consists of solar panels that capture sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. These panels are usually installed on the roof or ground-mounted in an open area with maximum sun exposure.
  2. Inverter: The DC electricity generated by the solar panels is sent to an inverter, which converts it into alternating current (AC) electricity. AC electricity is the standard form of electricity used in homes and businesses.
  3. Electrical Load: The AC electricity produced by the inverter is then used to power the electrical loads within the premises, such as lights, appliances, and other devices. The solar energy is prioritized for consumption within the building, reducing the reliance on the grid.
  4. Grid Connection: The on-grid solar system is connected to the local electrical grid through a bi-directional meter. This meter measures the amount of electricity consumed from the grid and the surplus electricity fed back into the grid.
  5. Net Metering: In many regions, a net metering arrangement is in place. When the solar system generates more electricity than is being consumed on-site, the excess electricity is fed back into the grid. The bi-directional meter tracks this excess electricity, and the owner receives credits or a reduction in their electricity bill for the power exported to the grid.
  6. Grid Backup: During periods when the solar system is not producing enough electricity, such as at night or on cloudy days, electricity can be drawn from the grid to meet the demand. This ensures a continuous power supply, maintaining the comfort and functionality of the building.

The benefits of on-grid solar systems include:

  1. Reduced Electricity Bills: By generating your own electricity, you can offset a significant portion of your electricity consumption, leading to lower energy bills.
  2. Environmental Sustainability: On-grid solar systems help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by utilizing clean and renewable energy sources.
  3. Return on Investment: Depending on factors like local electricity rates and available incentives, on-grid solar systems can offer a reasonable return on investment over their lifespan.
  4. Grid Stability: On-grid solar systems contribute to grid stability by reducing the strain on the electrical grid during peak demand periods.

It’s important to note that on-grid solar systems do not provide backup power during grid outages. If uninterrupted power supply is desired, a battery storage system or a hybrid solar system that combines solar panels, an inverter, and energy storage can be considered.

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