Thousands of villagers across India sulk in darkness due to unavailability of power. Sustainable energy is key government priority. Grid penetration is a challenge in a country as vast as ours. Government is focussing on distributed energy generation. Solar mini grids are the best options for this scale of distribution.
Village-scale solar power plants or mini grids are the ideal solution for accelerating development in a sustainable manner. Due to their modular nature these mini grids can be scaled up in capacity as per requirement. These are also easier to maintain in comparison to individual solar systems.
A mini grid consists of solar array and inverter and may come with or without batteries. The output is supplied through a network of cables to several homes in the village. A diesel-generator can be used as a back-up.
As much as 31% of India’s population lack access to electricity, largely due to sporadic distribution through national grid. Geographically dispersed population, especially in rural areas either has no grid connectivity or experience frequent blackouts, power outages and curtailments.
Village-scale solar power plants or mini grids are the ideal solution for accelerating development in a sustainable manner. Due to their modular nature these mini grids can be scaled up in capacity as per requirement. They are also easier to maintain in comparison to individual solar systems.
A mini grid consists of solar array, inverter and batteries. The generated power is supplied through a locally established distribution network to several homes in the village.
Benefits of solar micro grids
1. Scalable systems
2. Centralized system, easier to maintain
3. Fast deployment
4. Long life of the plant ~25 years
5. Low operational cost
6. Green energy
