Government of India approved last week National Solar mission under which following targets and policy changes will happen:
• Create an enabling policy framework for the deployment of 20,000 MW of solar power by 2022.
• Ramp up capacity of grid-connected solar power generation to 1000 MW within three years – by 2013;
• Achieve 15 million sq. meters solar thermal collector area by 2017 and 20 million by 2022 (about 10 GWth).
• Deploy 20 million solar lighting systems for rural areas by 2022. MNRE will give 90% subsidy for solar lights distributed to off grid villages.
• Key thing in this is that NTPC will now be the power trader for solar power projects and sell the aggregated power to utilities. This will help power project developers to deal with only a single entity rather than multiple entities to get feed-in tariff.
• PPA will be 25 years rather than 10 years now.
• Setting up of a National Centre for Photovoltaic Research and Education at IIT, Mumbai drawing upon its Department of Energy Science and Engineering and its Centre for Excellence in Nano-Electronics.
Manoj
Monday, November 30, 2009
Monday, November 16, 2009
Ajanta eyes China firm for Rs 1lakh electric car
The $325 million (Rs 1,500-crore) company, which also makes electric bikes, vitrified tiles and CFL lamps, has made a layout of Rs 100 crore to acquire an existing assembly unit of an undisclosed carmaker, which can roll out 5,000 units a year. The deal is likely to be inked within this year as valuations are currently low.
An executive in the company, who did not want to be named, also said that the group would come out with its own brand ‘Oreva’ for the cars and indigenise the design so that it suits the urban population that it intends to target. Oreva, derived from the names of Ajanta’s founder OR Patel and his wife Revaben, is an existing brand for its tiles.
Ajanta group director Jaysukh Patel refused to comment on his plans on the acquisition. He, however, said, “We have not yet decided on it but are seeking government support so that we can develop cheaper vehicles for the Indian market.” VAT and excise duty put together make almost a fourth of the total manufacturing costs of the vehicle. “If the costs are lowered, we are capable of manufacturing batterypowered cars at Rs 1 lakh or less,” he said. The acquisition will help the company acquire technologies for moulding, designs and battery production among others. Also, it would help in creating and establishing a new market for electric cars in India.
Two years ago, the group ventured into two-wheeler electric vehicles two years back with an investment of around Rs 300 crore. It manufactures close to 10,000 bikes every year at its Kutch facility.
Mr Patel, who along with his father and uncle Manubhai Patel (who now runs the Samay group), had launched Ajanta clocks in the early 1980s and stunned the market with sub-Rs 100 clocks, has already designed a prototype of the vehicle and is personally driving it around on his 400-acres manufacturing facility near Morbi, near Rajkot. The prototype runs 120 kms per charge of 7 units of electricity, costing nearly Rs 35 per charge.
“We have designed more than 10 battery powered cars of 4-seater and 6-seater capacity and are testing them now,” Mr Patel said. He also claimed that the 6-seater would cost nearly Rs 1.5 lakh while 4-seater can be available at Rs 1 lakh. Ajanta was planning to set up a battery production unit near Morbi so that it can bring down costs further, but it dropped such plans owing to raw material issues. The group has a strong distribution network already with a diversified product portfolio and claims it can modify some distribution centres across the country into charging-cum-maintenance stations.
Manoj
An executive in the company, who did not want to be named, also said that the group would come out with its own brand ‘Oreva’ for the cars and indigenise the design so that it suits the urban population that it intends to target. Oreva, derived from the names of Ajanta’s founder OR Patel and his wife Revaben, is an existing brand for its tiles.
Ajanta group director Jaysukh Patel refused to comment on his plans on the acquisition. He, however, said, “We have not yet decided on it but are seeking government support so that we can develop cheaper vehicles for the Indian market.” VAT and excise duty put together make almost a fourth of the total manufacturing costs of the vehicle. “If the costs are lowered, we are capable of manufacturing batterypowered cars at Rs 1 lakh or less,” he said. The acquisition will help the company acquire technologies for moulding, designs and battery production among others. Also, it would help in creating and establishing a new market for electric cars in India.
Two years ago, the group ventured into two-wheeler electric vehicles two years back with an investment of around Rs 300 crore. It manufactures close to 10,000 bikes every year at its Kutch facility.
Mr Patel, who along with his father and uncle Manubhai Patel (who now runs the Samay group), had launched Ajanta clocks in the early 1980s and stunned the market with sub-Rs 100 clocks, has already designed a prototype of the vehicle and is personally driving it around on his 400-acres manufacturing facility near Morbi, near Rajkot. The prototype runs 120 kms per charge of 7 units of electricity, costing nearly Rs 35 per charge.
“We have designed more than 10 battery powered cars of 4-seater and 6-seater capacity and are testing them now,” Mr Patel said. He also claimed that the 6-seater would cost nearly Rs 1.5 lakh while 4-seater can be available at Rs 1 lakh. Ajanta was planning to set up a battery production unit near Morbi so that it can bring down costs further, but it dropped such plans owing to raw material issues. The group has a strong distribution network already with a diversified product portfolio and claims it can modify some distribution centres across the country into charging-cum-maintenance stations.
Manoj
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Northern Lights Energy and REVA to jointly develop electric vehicles market in Iceland
Northern Lights Energy (NLE), the initiator of the 2012 project and provider of infrastructure and services for Electric Vehicles (EV) based in Iceland has signed an agreement with REVA to jointly develop the electric vehicle market in Iceland.
NLE will have exclusive distribution rights for the NXR, the new model premiered by REVA at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, and consequent follow-up models, such as the sports coupé NXG, which will be launched in 2011. The sales and marketing of the car will commence in the second half of 2010 and customer deliveries at the end of 2010.
REVA today has the world’s largest test fleet of electric cars, with more than 3,000 vehicles in 24 countries and more than 85 million kms of on road data. The company recently announced a joint venture with General Motors India to provide the electric powertrain and energy management systems for the new Chevrolet Spark and a new 30,000 unit REVA assembly plant – expected to be one of the greenest in the world – is under construction in India. Iceland is also being considered by REVA as a possible site for a European assembly plant. The REVA NXR is a four-seat, three-door hatchback family car suitable for urban driving. Top speed is 104 kph with a range of 160 km per charge. If using the 90 minute fast charge (normal charging is eight hours), the REVA NXR offers an effective range of 320km a day. A fast charge for 15 minutes will provide a 40 km range.
NLE is working on developing a (re)charging infrastructure system for Electric Vehicles and vehicle exchange service to support the adoption of electric vehicles in Iceland. “Iceland is an island and with its advanced electric grid technology using 100 per cent renewable energy in electricity production is a perfect location for zero emission electric vehicles” says Gisli Gislason, the chairman of NLE. In addition to importing new EV models to Iceland, NLE is also working on developing systems to convert the current internal combustion engine (ICE) car fleet into Electric Cars. “We are working with a number of parties in Denmark and Finland to enable the conversion process of the current cars running in Iceland to support a swift development of the Electric Vehicle market. The mission is to place Iceland in the forefront of countries that uses sustainable energy sources for its personal vehicle fleet, moving away from fossil fuels, saving billions of ISKs for the society and reducing the 680.000 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) that is annually being emitted by the personal vehicle fleet in Iceland. This is what the Project 2012 is all about.” says Sighvatur Lárusson, the chief operating officer of NLE. “
“We are very excited about the partnership with NLE. The 2012 project is one of the most ambitious yet achievable transport electrification projects in the world today and we are pleased to be able to contribute our technologies and products” said Keith Johnston, president, European Operations at REVA.
It is to be mentioned that Northern Lights Energy is an Icelandic investment company, targeting environmental friendly projects, leading in the field of environmental and renewable energy solutions. Project 2012 is an initiative of Northern Lights Energy which has committed to build in Iceland, the first nationwide charging infrastructure in the world, before the yearend 2012.
Manoj
NLE will have exclusive distribution rights for the NXR, the new model premiered by REVA at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, and consequent follow-up models, such as the sports coupé NXG, which will be launched in 2011. The sales and marketing of the car will commence in the second half of 2010 and customer deliveries at the end of 2010.
REVA today has the world’s largest test fleet of electric cars, with more than 3,000 vehicles in 24 countries and more than 85 million kms of on road data. The company recently announced a joint venture with General Motors India to provide the electric powertrain and energy management systems for the new Chevrolet Spark and a new 30,000 unit REVA assembly plant – expected to be one of the greenest in the world – is under construction in India. Iceland is also being considered by REVA as a possible site for a European assembly plant. The REVA NXR is a four-seat, three-door hatchback family car suitable for urban driving. Top speed is 104 kph with a range of 160 km per charge. If using the 90 minute fast charge (normal charging is eight hours), the REVA NXR offers an effective range of 320km a day. A fast charge for 15 minutes will provide a 40 km range.
NLE is working on developing a (re)charging infrastructure system for Electric Vehicles and vehicle exchange service to support the adoption of electric vehicles in Iceland. “Iceland is an island and with its advanced electric grid technology using 100 per cent renewable energy in electricity production is a perfect location for zero emission electric vehicles” says Gisli Gislason, the chairman of NLE. In addition to importing new EV models to Iceland, NLE is also working on developing systems to convert the current internal combustion engine (ICE) car fleet into Electric Cars. “We are working with a number of parties in Denmark and Finland to enable the conversion process of the current cars running in Iceland to support a swift development of the Electric Vehicle market. The mission is to place Iceland in the forefront of countries that uses sustainable energy sources for its personal vehicle fleet, moving away from fossil fuels, saving billions of ISKs for the society and reducing the 680.000 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) that is annually being emitted by the personal vehicle fleet in Iceland. This is what the Project 2012 is all about.” says Sighvatur Lárusson, the chief operating officer of NLE. “
“We are very excited about the partnership with NLE. The 2012 project is one of the most ambitious yet achievable transport electrification projects in the world today and we are pleased to be able to contribute our technologies and products” said Keith Johnston, president, European Operations at REVA.
It is to be mentioned that Northern Lights Energy is an Icelandic investment company, targeting environmental friendly projects, leading in the field of environmental and renewable energy solutions. Project 2012 is an initiative of Northern Lights Energy which has committed to build in Iceland, the first nationwide charging infrastructure in the world, before the yearend 2012.
Manoj
CleanTech news this week
Biogas plant moves forward in Chennai
November 6, 2009 - Best of the web - Market’s organic waste to be processed for power under new 12-year agreement between local development authority and Ramky Enviro Engineers.
India’s Avesthagen teams with Limagrain on seed tech
November 2, 2009 - by Lisa Sibley - New joint venture is expected to generate modified seeds to help farmers in India and other emerging markets combat drought, salinity and grow better quality produce.
Inside cleantech India: Kal, Aaj aur Kal! [premium]
November 3, 2009 - by Razvan Maximiuc - Olympus Capital closes its Asian Environmental Fund, while Ind-Barath Power Infra raises $100 million in private equity funding.
Manoj
November 6, 2009 - Best of the web - Market’s organic waste to be processed for power under new 12-year agreement between local development authority and Ramky Enviro Engineers.
India’s Avesthagen teams with Limagrain on seed tech
November 2, 2009 - by Lisa Sibley - New joint venture is expected to generate modified seeds to help farmers in India and other emerging markets combat drought, salinity and grow better quality produce.
Inside cleantech India: Kal, Aaj aur Kal! [premium]
November 3, 2009 - by Razvan Maximiuc - Olympus Capital closes its Asian Environmental Fund, while Ind-Barath Power Infra raises $100 million in private equity funding.
Manoj
Thursday, November 5, 2009
CleanTech News This Week
Inside cleantech India: Kal, Aaj aur Kal! [premium]
October 29, 2009 - by Razvan Maximiuc - IPO expected to boost funds for India's planned clean city, while cleantech investments flow into Hyderabad and REVA moves forward with ‘reverse innovation’.
Making money off India's resource scarcity
October 28, 2009 - by Razvan Maximiuc - Eleven startups made their pitches to investors at The Cleantech Group's Delhi forum. Here's the cream of the crop.
Manoj Gupta
October 29, 2009 - by Razvan Maximiuc - IPO expected to boost funds for India's planned clean city, while cleantech investments flow into Hyderabad and REVA moves forward with ‘reverse innovation’.
Making money off India's resource scarcity
October 28, 2009 - by Razvan Maximiuc - Eleven startups made their pitches to investors at The Cleantech Group's Delhi forum. Here's the cream of the crop.
Manoj Gupta
CleanTech News This Week
Indian carmaker Reva to manufacture in NY
October 23, 2009 - by Lisa Sibley - Bangalore-based EV maker to produce more than 20,000 cars a year at new facility, employing 100 people.
Three solar firms picked for Andhra Pradesh development
October 22, 2009 - Best of the web - AES, Lanco and Sunborne are the first to be selected for 5,000 of 20,000 acres deemed suitable for solar power.
Clenergen to launch new biomass power plants in India
October 21, 2009 - News brief - First 1.5 MW plant is back on because of a power purchase agreement with PTC India offering a higher tariff rate.
Manoj Gupta
October 23, 2009 - by Lisa Sibley - Bangalore-based EV maker to produce more than 20,000 cars a year at new facility, employing 100 people.
Three solar firms picked for Andhra Pradesh development
October 22, 2009 - Best of the web - AES, Lanco and Sunborne are the first to be selected for 5,000 of 20,000 acres deemed suitable for solar power.
Clenergen to launch new biomass power plants in India
October 21, 2009 - News brief - First 1.5 MW plant is back on because of a power purchase agreement with PTC India offering a higher tariff rate.
Manoj Gupta
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
D.LIGHT LAUNCHES WORLD’S MOST AFFORDABLE QUALITY SOLAR LANTERN
“Kerosene-Killing” Solar Product Retails at USD10 in Off-Grid Markets Around the World
New Delhi, India, 21 October 2009 – D.light Design today announced the launch of the Kiran, their most innovative and low-cost solar lighting solution to date, designed especially for households without access to electricity. Dubbed the “kerosene killer,” the Kiran retails at USD10, making it the most affordable quality solar lantern in the world.
“D.light continues to be at the forefront of providing innovative and affordable technology solutions for off-grid families around the world,” said D.light CEO Sam Goldman. “We believe the exceptional quality of the Kiran lantern, delivered at a low and affordable price, will make it a serious competitor to kerosene and other fuel-based lighting in every rural market.”
The Kiran is five times brighter than a kerosene lantern and can be fully charged in a day under the sun. It provides bright, 360-degree illumination for working, studying, or traveling. There are two light settings, which offer up to 8 hours of light on a full charge. With an integrated solar panel and a multiple-setting handle, the lantern is extremely flexible and easy to use. For households with access to grid electricity, the Kiran can also be AC-charged with a standard Nokia phone adapter.
“D.light’s latest innovation, the Kiran, is based on hundreds of hours of market research,” said D.light’s Head of Product Design Robin Chilton. “We know what our customers want: An attractive, durable product that provides enough hours of bright light every day at a price point they can afford. This is the solution that will effectively replace the kerosene lantern.”
Recent market tests establish the Kiran as a viable and desirable alternative to kerosene. Customer feedback consistently praised the product’s ease of use, durability, and bright light. According to Niwrtti Jawane, a welder from Miraj Village in India: “The Kiran has benefitted us in several ways: It is portable, has good brightness, and prevents the harmful effects of kerosene fumes. This purchase has been a good one-time investment. As there are no costs for recharging, it will be economical over time. We are happy with our purchase as it is a definite improvement over the emergency lights, kerosene lamps and candles previously used.”
The Kiran is currently available for purchase by end-user customers through D.light dealers and distributors in India and internationally. Distributors may also contact D.light’s Sales offices to place orders.
Additional D.light products available for sale are the Nova Series, premium solar lanterns with features including mobile phone charging capabilities, and the Solata, a high-quality solar task lamp.
Manoj Gupta
New Delhi, India, 21 October 2009 – D.light Design today announced the launch of the Kiran, their most innovative and low-cost solar lighting solution to date, designed especially for households without access to electricity. Dubbed the “kerosene killer,” the Kiran retails at USD10, making it the most affordable quality solar lantern in the world.
“D.light continues to be at the forefront of providing innovative and affordable technology solutions for off-grid families around the world,” said D.light CEO Sam Goldman. “We believe the exceptional quality of the Kiran lantern, delivered at a low and affordable price, will make it a serious competitor to kerosene and other fuel-based lighting in every rural market.”
The Kiran is five times brighter than a kerosene lantern and can be fully charged in a day under the sun. It provides bright, 360-degree illumination for working, studying, or traveling. There are two light settings, which offer up to 8 hours of light on a full charge. With an integrated solar panel and a multiple-setting handle, the lantern is extremely flexible and easy to use. For households with access to grid electricity, the Kiran can also be AC-charged with a standard Nokia phone adapter.
“D.light’s latest innovation, the Kiran, is based on hundreds of hours of market research,” said D.light’s Head of Product Design Robin Chilton. “We know what our customers want: An attractive, durable product that provides enough hours of bright light every day at a price point they can afford. This is the solution that will effectively replace the kerosene lantern.”
Recent market tests establish the Kiran as a viable and desirable alternative to kerosene. Customer feedback consistently praised the product’s ease of use, durability, and bright light. According to Niwrtti Jawane, a welder from Miraj Village in India: “The Kiran has benefitted us in several ways: It is portable, has good brightness, and prevents the harmful effects of kerosene fumes. This purchase has been a good one-time investment. As there are no costs for recharging, it will be economical over time. We are happy with our purchase as it is a definite improvement over the emergency lights, kerosene lamps and candles previously used.”
The Kiran is currently available for purchase by end-user customers through D.light dealers and distributors in India and internationally. Distributors may also contact D.light’s Sales offices to place orders.
Additional D.light products available for sale are the Nova Series, premium solar lanterns with features including mobile phone charging capabilities, and the Solata, a high-quality solar task lamp.
Manoj Gupta
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