New Delhi: During the APAC National Sustainable Energy Innovation Conclave, IAS officer Arun Mahesh Babu, Managing Director, Uttar Gujarat Vij Company Ltd. (UGVCL) & Gujarat Power Corporation Ltd. (GPCL), Government of Gujarat, discussed the transformation and future innovations in energy systems, especially the shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. The following are key significant takeaways from his presentation:
Global and National Energy Transition
Arun Mahesh Babu talked about the shift of power systems from fossil-based to non-fossil sources, with a vision for a single interconnected grid among nations to improve connectivity and power sharing among nations. He expects a global target of 12 terawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2050.
Innovations in Energy Technology
The aim is to integrate renewable energy into current systems, Mahesh Babu said. Sources like solar and wind can have variable outputs depending on factors like weather conditions, it is important to have technologies like battery storage and smart grids in place. Battery storage allows excess energy generated during peak times to be stored for use when there’s less generation, while smart grids can manage and distribute electricity more efficiently, helping to balance supply and demand. Mahesh Babu noted major projects in Gujarat, like the world’s largest solar parks, showing significant progress in boosting renewable capacity. “Gujarat is the leader in terms of renewable energy transition,” he said.
Renewable Energy Growth in Gujarat
Gujarat is taking a leading role in transitioning towards renewable energy sources. Mahesh Babu revealed that the state is ensuring progress by increasing its capacity for renewable energy. Large-scale projects have been initiated to develop solar parks and also initiate the adoption of energy solutions like hybrid cells and thermal storage systems.
Smart Grid and Energy Management
Mahesh Babu stressed the importance of advanced grid technology to efficiently integrate renewable sources. He said, “Smart grid technology should be propagated, so that we can grow up to the international standards.” Smart grid for energy management involves the distribution and transmission of networks, and implementing advanced and net metering systems to boost overall grid stability.
Promotion of Green Technologies
New technologies like molten salt storage and offshore wind projects are being promoted. “It typically works like a dial. You focus the entire solar energy on one part, and that is where your heating, energy production, and the turbines run. Whatever energy is produced is stored in molten salt, as well as underground,” Mahesh Babu explained. He added that improvements in infrastructure, such as improved roads for solar and wind installations, are essential to support these technologies.
Future Goals and Customer Engagement
Mahesh Babu also covered the need for the energy sector to adapt to new technologies and focus on customer satisfaction to navigate the transition effectively. Future goals include expanding renewable energy, enhancing grid capabilities, and developing energy storage solutions to support a sustainable and efficient power infrastructure.
