Solar efficiency, cost cuts vital for energy transition: Pralhad Joshi
POWER & RENEWABLE ENERGY

Solar efficiency, cost cuts vital for energy transition: Pralhad Joshi

Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, emphasised the global focus on advancing solar technology to achieve significant cost reductions and efficiency gains during a conference on clean energy transition. As President of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), he remarked, “The world is united in the energy transition, harnessing global efforts.”

Joshi highlighted the need for more efficient solar technology, stating, “Traditional solar panels typically convert only 15-20% of sunlight to electricity, but innovations like bifacial panels and solar paint are increasing this rate.” He stressed that improving efficiency and reducing costs are essential to make solar energy affordable and accessible worldwide.

He also noted India’s progress, with solar tariffs dropping by 76% over the last decade. Tariffs for grid-connected solar plants have fallen from Rs 10.95 per unit in FY 2010-11 to Rs 2.60 in FY 2023-24, making solar energy more affordable for households and businesses.

Battery storage innovations were also discussed, with the minister underscoring their role in stabilising solar power supply. “Battery storage advancements allow excess energy to be stored for use on cloudy days or at night, enhancing grid reliability,” he stated.

Joshi outlined job creation potential within India's "PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana," projected to create 1.7 million jobs in installation, manufacturing, and maintenance. “Around 325,000 youth are being trained in rooftop solar installation, empowering them to contribute to the solar sector,” he said. He also discussed the government’s Rs 8 billion investment in model solar villages across districts, providing each village with Rs 10 million for rooftop solar systems, which will improve access to clean energy and support solar-powered lighting, water systems, and agricultural pumps in rural areas. (ET)

Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, emphasised the global focus on advancing solar technology to achieve significant cost reductions and efficiency gains during a conference on clean energy transition. As President of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), he remarked, “The world is united in the energy transition, harnessing global efforts.” Joshi highlighted the need for more efficient solar technology, stating, “Traditional solar panels typically convert only 15-20% of sunlight to electricity, but innovations like bifacial panels and solar paint are increasing this rate.” He stressed that improving efficiency and reducing costs are essential to make solar energy affordable and accessible worldwide. He also noted India’s progress, with solar tariffs dropping by 76% over the last decade. Tariffs for grid-connected solar plants have fallen from Rs 10.95 per unit in FY 2010-11 to Rs 2.60 in FY 2023-24, making solar energy more affordable for households and businesses. Battery storage innovations were also discussed, with the minister underscoring their role in stabilising solar power supply. “Battery storage advancements allow excess energy to be stored for use on cloudy days or at night, enhancing grid reliability,” he stated. Joshi outlined job creation potential within India's PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, projected to create 1.7 million jobs in installation, manufacturing, and maintenance. “Around 325,000 youth are being trained in rooftop solar installation, empowering them to contribute to the solar sector,” he said. He also discussed the government’s Rs 8 billion investment in model solar villages across districts, providing each village with Rs 10 million for rooftop solar systems, which will improve access to clean energy and support solar-powered lighting, water systems, and agricultural pumps in rural areas. (ET)

Next Story
Resources

Ajmera Realty launches tree drive on Environment Day

Ajmera Realty & Infra India marked World Environment Day with a large-scale tree plantation initiative—Plant-with-Purpose—across its projects in Mumbai and Bangalore. The drive was inaugurated at Ajmera Manhattan and Ajmera Greenfinity in Wadala, with senior company officials and residents in attendance. The campaign encourages residents to embrace eco-conscious, self-reliant lifestyles by growing useful plants and trees within their communities. Horticulture expert Devendra Bhekar guided residents on creating and maintaining green spaces. Ajmera Realty planted over 500 trees..

Next Story
Resources

Twaron®-reinforced tyre powers Brunel’s solar race car

Teijin Aramid’s Twaron® with circular content will debut in Bridgestone’s race tyres for the 2025 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge, supporting the Brunel Solar Team’s Nuna 13 car. This marks the first use of the recycled-content aramid in a high-performance race tyre. The Twaron®-reinforced belts help enhance durability, reduce rolling resistance, and maintain lightweight strength—critical for the 3,000-km solar race across Australia. Bridgestone combines this with ENLITENTM tech and other recycled inputs to maximise environmental and performance outcomes. Teijin Aramid, a..

Next Story
Building Material

Kamdhenu Paints launches new wood coating range

Kamdhenu Paints has launched a comprehensive premium wood coating range designed for both interior and exterior applications. The collection includes high-performance solutions like Kamwood 2K PU for a rich matt or high-gloss finish, Kamwood 1K PU for clarity and stain protection, and the Kamwood Melamyne system for a smooth, durable finish. Also featured are Kamwood Wood Stains, which enhance wood grains with vibrant colour, and NC Sanding Sealer for high-build grain filling. The range is supported by Kamwood Thinners for ease of application and optimal finish. Saurabh Agarwal, MD, ..

Advertisement

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?