FAQs
Key Insights on the solutions offered by us.
Onsite Solar System
On onsite solar system installation and efficiency.
A solar renewable power system converts sunlight into electricity
using photovoltaic (PV) panels. These panels absorb sunlight and generate direct current (DC)
electricity, which is then converted into alternating current (AC) using an inverter. The AC
electricity is used to power equipment or is fed into the grid to offset energy consumption.
A solar system consists of several key components, including solar
panels, inverters, mounting structures, electrical wiring, protection devices, and a
monitoring system. Solar panels generate electricity, while inverters convert it from DC to
AC. Mounting structures provide support for the panels, and electrical wiring and protection
devices ensure safe power transmission. A monitoring system helps track energy generation and
system performance.
The capacity of a solar system is determined based on the energy
consumption of the facility. A 1kW solar system typically generates around 4 to 5 units of
electricity per day. If a facility consumes 5,000 units per day, it would require a 1MW (1,000
kW) solar system. Factors such as peak demand, available space, and sunlight hours are also
considered when determining the required capacity.
The space requirement for a solar installation depends on the type
of system. A rooftop solar installation requires around 80 to 100 square feet per kW, while a
ground-mounted solar system requires approximately 3 to 3.5 acres per MW. For instance, a 1MW
rooftop solar system would need around 80,000 to 100,000 square feet of shadow-free space.
For an onsite solar system to be feasible, the facility must have
sufficient space for installation, high solar irradiation for efficient energy generation, no
shading from nearby structures or trees, and a consistent power demand to maximize the
benefits of solar energy.
Shading significantly reduces the efficiency of a solar power
system. Even if only 10 percent of a panel is shaded, it can lead to a power loss of 30 to 40
percent since most solar panels work in a series. Proper site assessment and panel placement
are essential to minimize shading losses. It can also impact the lifespan of the panels as
even partial shading can cause a significant drop in power output and potentially lead to
overheating and damage.
Solar panels need to be cleaned every 15 to 20 days, depending on
dust levels, pollution, and weather conditions. Regular cleaning helps maintain efficiency and
prevents energy losses due to dirt accumulation.
Most commercial solar panels have an efficiency of 17 to 22 percent,
meaning they convert that percentage of sunlight into electricity. High-efficiency panels
generate more power in limited space, making them ideal for areas with space constraints.
A 1MW solar system generates approximately 4,000 to 4,500 units of
electricity per day, which amounts to about 15 lakh units per year. The exact generation
depends on location, sunlight availability, and system efficiency.
Rooftop solar systems are installed on building roofs and are ideal
for utilizing existing space without requiring additional land. Ground-mounted solar systems
are installed on open land and allow for larger capacity installations, better orientation,
and easier maintenance.
Rooftop solar systems are installed using mounting structures that
either require minor drilling or are designed to be non-penetrative, ensuring the roof remains
undamaged. The weight of a 1kW solar system is approximately 20 to 25 kg per square meter,
which most metal or concrete roofs can easily support.
A solar system has a lifespan of over 25 years. However, solar
panels degrade over time at a rate of about 0.5 to 1 percent per year, meaning they still
generate over 80 percent of their original capacity even after 25 years.
Solar panels last for over 25 years, while inverters typically need
replacement after 8 to 10 years. Batteries, depending on their type and usage, have a lifespan
of 3.5 to 4 years.
Yes, depending on the type of inverters being used, real time
performance of a solar power systems can be given.
Operation and maintenance of a solar rooftop system include regular
panel cleaning, electrical inspections of inverters and wiring, and performance monitoring to
ensure optimal power generation.
We at SAVEarth, undertake the responsibility for system design,
procurement, engineering, construction, installation, commissioning, and ongoing maintenance
of the system.
The client is responsible for providing the rooftop or land for
installation, securing necessary permits and approvals, and ensuring grid connectivity if net
metering is required. Client is also required to provide necessary documents as required for
approvals.
After 25 years, the solar system continues to generate power but at
reduced efficiency. The system can either be upgraded by replacing old panels or
decommissioned, with components being recycled or repurposed.
Some limitations of onsite solar installations include the
requirement for sufficient space, the impact of shading on efficiency, and the initial capital
investment needed for installation. However, these limitations are outweighed by long-term
cost savings and sustainability benefits.
Offsite Solar System
On offsite solar system installation and efficiency.
An offsite solar system allows businesses to procure solar energy
without installing panels on their premises. The solar power plant is located in a
high-irradiation area and supplies energy to clients via the grid. Companies can either own or
sign a power purchase agreements (PPAs) with a developer to receive clean energy while
reducing electricity costs and carbon footprint.
Offsite solar projects typically range from 1MW to 100MW or more,
depending on land availability, grid infrastructure, and client demand. These large-scale
plants supply power to multiple industrial and commercial clients.
Offsite solar projects allow businesses to access renewable energy
without space constraints. In case of chemical or fire sensitive industries, off-site solar
ensure complete safety of people, premises and energy generating asset. They provide lower
electricity costs, reliable power supply, and carbon footprint reduction.
The electricity generated at an offsite solar plant is fed into the
grid and delivered to the client through open access. The client continues using power from
the grid but receives credits or reduced charges for the solar energy supplied.
Offsite solar projects require approvals such as land permits,
environmental clearances, transmission connectivity approvals, open access permissions, and
state electricity regulatory approvals.
A 1MW offsite solar system requires around 3 to 3.5 acres of land,
depending on panel efficiency and installation type. A 50MW project typically needs 150 to 175
acres of land.
Offsite solar can be developed under different financial models. If
the client chooses the CAPEX model, they invest the full project cost and own the solar plant.
The key benefit of this model is that once the investment is recovered, the power generated is
completely free for the lifetime of the plant, typically 25 years.
Under a Group Captive model, the client invests at least 26% equity in the project (around 8%
of the total project cost), while the developer funds the remaining amount. This allows the
client to access solar power at a lower rate compared to grid electricity while sharing
ownership of the project.
Under a Third-Party model, the client does not invest anything upfront and simply pays for the
power consumed at a discounted rate compared to grid tariffs. The developer bears the
installation and maintenance costs, making it a hassle-free option for businesses looking to
save on electricity without capital expenditure.
SAVEarth can undertake solar installation which includes site
selection, land acquisition, system design and engineering, procurement, construction, grid
connectivity, and operations & maintenance of the offsite plant.
In the CAPEX model, the client funds the entire project and owns the plant. They provide all the necessary documents required for seeking approvals and for registrations. The benefit is that once the investment is recovered, power is free for the plant’s lifespan. However, SAVEarth assists the client at every step, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process.
Under the Group Captive model, the client invests at least 26% equity (around 8% of the total project cost), while the developer funds the rest. The client signs the PPA, obtains regulatory approvals, and pays for the energy consumed at a lower rate than grid electricity.
In the Third-Party model, the client makes no investment and only pays for the power used at a discounted rate. Their role is limited to signing the PPA, securing approvals, and making timely payments, while the developer handles all other responsibilities.A 1MW offsite solar system typically generates around 15 to 16 lakh
units per year, depending on location, sunlight availability, and system efficiency. However,
when power is transmitted from the offsite plant to the client’s facility grid losses occur,
depending on the distance and voltage level. Additionally, if surplus power is banked with the
grid, banking charges and potential withdrawal restrictions may reduce the final usable units.
SAVEarth ensures efficient planning to minimize these losses and optimize power delivery to
the client.
Power transmission through the grid results in 3 to 14 percent
losses, depending on distance and transmission voltage.
Yes, offsite solar power procurement involves charges such as transmission fees, wheeling charges, additional surcharges, cross-subsidy surcharge, and state government levies. Grid losses also occur during power transmission, and banked units may be subject to withdrawal restrictions and banking charges.
However, cross-subsidy surcharges and additional surcharges are exempted for projects with captive status, meaning they do not apply under the CAPEX or Group Captive financial models. These charges are levied only under the Third-Party model, where the client does not hold an ownership stake in the project.
Energy metering is done using a special energy meter installed at
both the solar plant and the client’s premises. This ensures accurate billing and tracking of
power consumption.
Offsite solar plants are secured with fencing, surveillance cameras,
security personnel, and automated monitoring systems to prevent theft and damage.
O&M includes regular cleaning of solar panels, inverter maintenance,
transformer servicing, grid monitoring, and performance optimization to ensure maximum energy
generation.
Offsite solar projects depend on government policies, grid
availability, and open access regulations. Transmission losses and grid-related charges may
slightly impact cost savings. However, long-term financial and environmental benefits outweigh
these risks.
Onsite Wind System
On onsite wind system installation and efficiency.
A wind turbine is a device that converts wind energy into
electricity. The turbine’s blades rotate when the wind blows, driving a generator that
produces power. The stronger the wind, the more electricity is generated.
Key factors include average wind speed, site elevation,
obstructions like buildings or trees, and available space for installation. A minimum wind
speed of 3-4 m/s is typically required for small wind turbines to be viable.
A wind turbine system consists of the turbine itself (blades and
rotor), a tower, a generator, a controller, and an inverter. For off-grid setups, batteries
may be added for energy storage.
A small wind turbine (0.5kW to 10kW) typically requires 10-20
square meters of clear space per unit to avoid turbulence and optimize performance. The
tower height also plays a crucial role in maximizing efficiency.
Wind capacity can be expanded by adding more turbines, but unlike
solar, which can be easily scaled based on available rooftop or ground space, wind turbines
require specific wind conditions and spacing between units.
A small wind turbine typically requires a minimum wind speed of
3-4 m/s to start generating power and 5-6 m/s for efficient operation. Performance improves
significantly in areas with consistent winds above this range.
The installation time varies based on turbine size, but small wind
turbines can typically be installed within 1 to 2 months, including material procurement,
tower setup and electrical integration.
A well-maintained small wind turbine can last 20-25 years. Regular
maintenance includes inspecting blades, lubricating moving parts, checking electrical
connections, and monitoring system performance every 6-12 months.
Yes, additional turbines can be installed to increase capacity,
but feasibility depends on wind conditions, spacing requirements, and local regulations.
A 5kW wind turbine can generate 7,000-15,000 kWh per year,
depending on wind conditions, while a 5kW solar system typically generates 6,500-8,000 kWh
per year in sunny regions. Wind power generation is more variable and depends on wind
consistency.
Wind turbines require consistent wind speeds, proper spacing, and
structural support. They can be affected by turbulence from nearby buildings or trees,
require regular maintenance, and may not be suitable for all locations. Noise and aesthetic
concerns can also be factors in urban or residential areas.
Offsite Wind System
On offsite wind system installation and efficiency.
An offsite wind project is a large wind farm installed at a remote location where wind speeds are optimal. The generated power is supplied to industrial and commercial clients through the grid using open access.
Under the CAPEX model, the client invests and owns the project, making power free after the investment is recovered. In the Group Captive model, the client invests at least 26% of the project equity (essentially paying 8% of the total project cost) while the developer funds the rest. Under CAPEX and Group Captive model, captive status of the project allows exemptions of cross-subsidy and additional surcharges.
In the Third-Party model, the developer owns the project, and the client buys power at a discounted tariff without any upfront investment.
The feasibility of an offsite wind project depends on wind speeds
of at least 5-7 m/s, availability of land, grid connectivity, and regulatory approvals.
Energy is transmitted through the state or national grid and
delivered to the client’s facility via open access. Transmission losses occur depending on
distance and grid infrastructure.
Energy metering is done using Special Energy Meters (SEMs), such
as 0.2 Class ABT Meter, installed at both the wind farm and the client’s facility.
Offsite wind projects provide cost-effective renewable energy
without requiring land or infrastructure from the client.
Permits include land approvals, grid connectivity, open access
permissions, and regulatory clearances.
Installation and commissioning typically take 12-18 months.
The renewable partner handles site selection, feasibility studies,
permits, engineering, procurement, construction, grid integration, and operations &
maintenance.
In the CAPEX model, the client fully invests in the project, owns
the assets, and manages compliance. In the Group Captive model, they invest at least 26% and
co-own the project with the developer. In the Third-Party model, the client simply signs the
Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) and pays for the power consumed.
Risks include wind variability, transmission losses, grid charges,
and regulatory changes. In the CAPEX model, there is a high initial investment but long-term
savings. The Group Captive model requires partial investment while maintaining captive
status benefits. In the Third-Party model, the client avoids investment but is subject to
additional charges like cross-subsidy surcharge and additional surcharge unless the project
is under captive status.
Wind Solar Hybrid System
On wind solar hybrid system installation and efficiency.
A Wind-Solar Hybrid system combines wind turbines and solar panels
to generate electricity, utilizing the complementary nature of both energy sources. Solar
produces power during the day, while wind can generate power both day and night, ensuring a
more stable energy supply.
Hybrid systems reduce carbon emissions, optimize land use, and
lower dependence on fossil fuels. They also ensure better resource utilization by capturing
both wind and solar energy efficiently.
Hybrid systems maximize energy output, lowering electricity costs.
Offsite hybrid systems can be expanded based on land availability
and grid capacity. Businesses can increase their renewable power consumption by adding wind
or solar capacity as needed.
Challenges include variable energy generation, higher initial
investment, and grid integration complexities.
The complementary nature of wind and solar ensures a more
consistent power supply. Solar generates electricity in the daytime, while wind power is
available during low-sunlight hours, including evenings and nights. This reduces dependence
on grid power and enhances energy security.
The system includes wind turbines, solar panels, inverters, charge
controllers, battery storage (if needed), transformers, and a monitoring system for
real-time energy tracking.
Capacity is determined based on energy demand, wind speed, solar
irradiation, and space availability. A feasibility study helps optimize the wind-to-solar
ratio for reliable power generation.
Efficiency varies based on location and system design but
generally ranges from 80-90%, as wind and solar together reduce generation gaps compared to
standalone systems. The Plant Load Factor (PLF) of the system is around 50% which is higher
than standalone solar (PLF 19%) and standalone wind (PLF 35%).
By leveraging wind and solar’s complementary nature, hybrid
systems ensure a stable energy supply. When solar generation drops (e.g., during monsoons or
nighttime), wind can generate more power and there by compensate, reducing intermittency.
Yes, hybrid systems can deliver near-continuous power with proper
system sizing, energy storage, or grid integration, balancing solar’s daytime availability
with wind’s nighttime potential.
Hybrid systems help stabilize the grid by reducing sudden energy
fluctuations. When combined with energy storage, they can provide smooth power output,
preventing overloads and shortages.
A 1MW hybrid system typically requires 4-5 acres for
ground-mounted solar and wind turbine spacing, but exact requirements vary based on design
and site conditions.
Yes, industries with high energy demand and space availability can
benefit significantly. Hybrid systems reduce energy costs, ensure power reliability, and
support sustainability goals.
Maintenance costs are slightly higher than standalone solar but
lower than standalone wind, averaging 1-2% of the total project cost annually, covering
periodic inspections and servicing.
Solar panels last 25+ years with ~0.5% annual degradation, while
wind turbines last 25 years with regular maintenance. Components like inverters may need
replacement within 10 years.
