ABB sees big opportunity in renewable energy sector

Power and automations solutions company ABB is eyeing the renewable energy sector in the country with its range of products and integrated solutions.

Madhav Vemuri, Country Services Manager, ABB India, said several States in the country are facing power deficit and seeking to bridge the deficit by setting up new power projects and installing solar photovoltaic units, both grid connected and away from grids. They are also taking to solar water power pumps.

Vemuri, who was here to take part in an energy summit held recently, told BusinessLine that demand for solar water pumps is growing in States which are seeking to empower farmers to energise pump sets in remote locations.

Demonstrating how solar pumps function in isolation and provide hassle-free experience to farmers, Vemuri said various solutions developed by ABB, such as pump drives and panels that help manage these pumps, enable farmers to even manage them remotely using mobile applications.

Referring to the renewable energy segment, he said ABB is a key player in the segment working with various players in the solar, wind and hydro power generation sector. Their products include inverter systems, electrical balancing of plant and local networks.

The use of solar-powered pump sets is being advocated by the Central and several State Governments as they would be able to provide water where there is no power line, and also in places where there is inadequate supply. The Telangana and Andhra Pradesh Governments are especially encouraging setting up solar pumps.

Most of the remotely located pump sets use diesel generation sets, which are very expensive. Therefore, it is a lot more attractive to set up solar units, Vemuri said.

On the energy efficiency initiatives taken by the energy-intensive units in the country such as cement, paper and pulp industry, he said ABB is working with several large companies in India to improve efficiencies through automation. The savings brought about by using new technology solutions are quantifiable for companies.

The consumption of energy could be brought down significantly, he added. With the Government, the Confederation of Indian Industry and various players in the manufacturing sectors seeking to improve efficiency and working in a collaborative manner, Vemuri felt energy efficiency is getting into a mission mode.

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