Energetica India Magazine - November 2025

Business Line Manager – Oil Free Division, Compressor Technique Atlas Copco (India) Pvt. Ltd. SUNIL NATEKAR Q Where do compressors fit into the larger renewable energy value chain, particularly in solar manufacturing and de - ployment processes? Sunil Natekar: Compressors fit into the renewable energy value chain primarily as essential operational equipment in manufacturing and deployment, as a core component in large-scale energy storage systems, and in the production of green hydrogen. In production, they are used to clean silicon wafers, operate pneumatic equipment, and maintain controlled conditions during panel assembly. Compressed air is used during installa- tion to power equipment, clean panels, and cool solar farms. They also support energy storage systems by regulating pres- sure and temperature. So, while compressors are not the most visible aspect of solar energy, they quietly keep many essen- tial processes running efficiently and reliably, from manufac- turing lines to large-scale solar installations. Q Can you get into more detail about the various uses of compressors in solar, from running pneumatic tools to au - tomation and precision cleaning? Sunil Natekar: Compressors have a much bigger role in the solar industry than most people realise, they’re used across manufacturing, operations and even energy storage. Here’s how: Uses in Manufacturing • Powering Pneumatic Tools: They run drills, wrenches, and other tools used to cut and assemble silicon wafers and panels. • Material Handling and Assembly: Pneumatics drive robot- ic arms and cylinders for precise movement, positioning, and testing on the production line. • Coating and Etching: Compressed air supports coating, dif- fusion, and etching processes, as well as applying protective layers to frames. • Clean Environment: It’s also used for blow-off systems to keep dust and debris away from sensitive components, espe- cially when using oil-free compressors. Uses in Operations and Maintenance • Precision Cleaning and Cooling: High-pressure air removes dust from panels, especially in dry regions, and helps cool in- verters and electronics. • Automation and Control Systems: In concentrated solar pow- er (CSP) plants, compressed air moves mirrors or lenses and powers pneumatic controls for accuracy. • General Maintenance: It’s handy for cleaning, purging fil- ters, and other routine upkeep tasks. Energy Applications • Energy Storage: Solar-powered compressors can store sur- plus energy in Compressed Air Energy Storage systems. • Heat Recovery: Waste heat from compressors can be reused for heating or other industrial needs. • Solar-powered Compressors: Portable, solar-driven compres- sors are great for remote or off-grid sites where reliability and sustainability matter. A tlas Copco’s intelligent and connected air systems pro- vide real-time insights into equipment performance and offer a smooth transition for solar manufacturers to In- dustry 4.0, said Sunil Natekar, Business Line Manager – Oil Free Division, Compressor Technique, Atlas Copco (India) Pvt. Ltd., in an interview with Energetica India. 22 energetica INDIA- November_2025 INTERVIEW