Gautam Adani-led Adani Group's Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL) is focusing on lowering the water footprint of its solar portfolio by introducing advanced technologies in a bid to make its green energy generation more sustainable. According to release by the company, solar energy is a renewable resource which is inexhaustible until the sun sets. Even though it plays a major role in generating green electricity, solar module cleaning is a water intensive process. Cleaning of solar panels is essential for efficient power generation.
AGEL is deploying water-free robotic cleaning system to minimise water consumption for the maintenance of the solar modules. AGEL plans to implement this across its operational solar, hybrid sites (solar capacity of hybrid) and its future projects, especially in arid and dry regions such as Rajasthan and Kutch. This will reduce water usage for solar module maintenance to zero.
At present, the robotic cleaning technology has already been adopted at 30 per cent of AGEL's operational solar and hybrid plants i.e., 2,070 MW of 7,043 MW (solar + solar component of hybrid plants). This will save 283 million litres of water annually, which is equivalent to water requirement of 2.7 million households every year.
AGEL is likely to ink an agreement of $0.80 million with an Israeli firm for supply and installation of robots. The order to be placed will be for a 150 MW under construction site in Phalodi near Jodhpur. Installation work has already started at the hybrid unit in Jaisalmer.
Over the years, AGEL has engaged robots to counter dust accumulation on solar panels and modules. These robots use water-free technology that is both environmentally friendly and enhances the energy output of solar panels. Keeping in mind the growing concerns around scarcity of freshwater resources, AGEL has been undertaking several water stewardship activities, aligned with UN sustainable development goals (SDG) 6 on sustainable management of water.
Amit Singh, CEO, Adani Green Energy, said, "In line with India’s decarbonisation goals, we remain committed to deliver in excess of 45 GW by 2030. Adani Green continues to have the largest operating renewable portfolio in India with 8.4 GW capacity. We are ramping up our execution capabilities as we prepare for our next phase of growth."
AGEL, which is one of the largest renewable companies in the country, is set to become a key player for India as it positions itself as a critical piece in the global renewable energy sector. The thrust on research and innovations in the sector, along with conducive policies in the country, have been instrumental in creating a robust ecosystem that supports the growth of locally manufactured green energy.