Rooftop solar refers to solar power plants installed typically on residential, commercial, or industrial rooftops. In India, the adoption of rooftop solar has been gaining momentum as part of the country's broader commitment to renewable energy and decarbonization.

 

Current Scenario

As of 2023, India has installed approximately 7.5 GW of rooftop solar capacity, with an annual addition of around 2 GW. This growth is driven by favorable government policies, falling costs of solar PV panels, and increasing awareness of the benefits of renewable energy. By 2030, India aims to reach 40 GW of rooftop solar capacity, contributing significantly to the overall target of 450 GW of renewable energy.

Key Technology

• Rooftop solar power plants represent a mature technology. However, innovations continue to enhance their efficiency and integration. Inverters and batteries are crucial components undergoing rapid development. 
• The use of smart inverters and advanced grid management software is on the rise. These technologies help in optimizing energy production, managing power distribution, and ensuring seamless integration with the national grid. By 2030, it is expected that smart grids and advanced energy management systems will be standard, further improving the efficiency and reliability of rooftop solar installations.

Challenges and Opportunities

Intermittency and Storage

• Intermittency remains a significant challenge, with solar power being available only during daylight hours. As of 2023, battery storage solutions are available but are still relatively expensive.
• Innovations in energy storage, including advanced lithium-ion and solid-state batteries, are anticipated to improve storage efficiency and lifespan. By 2030, India aims to have 50 GW of battery storage capacity to support intermittent renewable energy sources.

Space Constraints

• For many commercial and industrial establishments with large power requirements, limited rooftop space can be a constraint. Advancement in mounting structures and the use of lightweight, flexible solar panels can help optimize the available space. Additionally, concepts like virtual power plants, where multiple rooftop installations are aggregated to function as a single power plant, can enhance the overall efficiency and output.

Digital Innovations

• The integration of digital tools, especially Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), is expected to revolutionize the rooftop solar sector. These technologies can improve energy management, predictive maintenance, and performance optimization. Startups and tech companies in India are developing solutions that leverage AI and IoT to maximize the efficiency of rooftop solar installations.

Case Studies

• Delhi's Solar Success: Delhi, the capital city, has emerged as a leader in rooftop solar adoption. The Delhi Solar Energy Policy, 2016, provided a robust framework for the installation of solar panels on residential and commercial buildings. By 2023, Delhi had installed over 150 MW of rooftop solar capacity, significantly reducing its carbon footprint and demonstrating the potential of urban solar adoption.
• Industrial Adoption in Gujarat: Gujarat, known for its industrial hubs, has seen growth in rooftop solar installations on industrial premises. Companies in sectors like textiles, chemicals, and engineering are increasingly turning to rooftop solar to power their operations. For instance, Torrent Pharmaceuticals installed a 2 MW rooftop solar plant at its manufacturing facility in Dahej, demonstrating how industrial players can leverage rooftop solar to meet a portion of their energy needs sustainably.

India's Rooftop Solar Projections

• Installed Capacity: As of 2023, India has 14.5 GW of rooftop solar capacity. By 2030, the target is to reach 40 GW, which would represent a fivefold increase.
• Cost Reductions: The cost of solar PV panels has decreased by more than 80% over the past decade. By 2030, further cost reductions of 20-30% are anticipated, making rooftop solar even more affordable.
• Battery Storage: The cost of battery storage is expected to fall by 50% by 2030, making it economically viable for a broader range of consumers.
• Carbon Emissions Reduction: If India meets its 40 GW rooftop solar target by 2030, it could potentially reduce carbon emissions by approximately 45 million tons annually, contributing significantly to global climate goals.