Interview: Naresh Mansukhani
CEO at Juniper Green Energy
Juniper Green Energy's collaboration with AT Group and Vitol founded on shared values
November 09, 2023. By News Bureau
Que: Can you tell us about your journey with Juniper Green Energy, and what motivated you to get involved in the renewable energy sector?
Ans: : It's been an exhilarating journey with Juniper Green Energy. My motivation to get involved in the renewable energy sector stems from a deep-rooted belief in the need for sustainable practices. The potential to make a positive impact on India's energy landscape, coupled with the challenge of driving innovation in the sector, was a compelling draw. Juniper Green Energy's commitment to delivering a sustainable future aligned seamlessly with my personal values, making it an exciting and purpose-driven venture.
Que: Juniper Green Energy is making significant strides in the Indian renewable energy landscape. Could you share some of the key achievements and contributions the organisation has made towards the progress of renewable energy in India?
Ans: Juniper Green Energy has been instrumental in propelling India towards a greener and sustainable future. Our operational portfolio of nearly 800 MW, under-construction capacity of 435 MW, and a robust development pipeline of over 3 GW underscore our commitment to sustainable growth. The recent 1.2 GW milestone, achieved through strategic PPAs/LOAs, not only contributes to India's renewable energy capacity but also plays a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions by approximately 1.3 million tonnes annually. These achievements position Juniper Green Energy as a key player in realising India's ambitious renewable energy targets.
Que: Could you share insights into the long-term strategic collaboration with AT Group and Vitol?
Ans: Our collaboration with AT Group and Vitol is founded on shared values and a vision for a sustainable future. Their increased investment of USD 350 million, and continued support since the initial commitment of USD 200 million, reflects their unwavering confidence in Juniper Green Energy's growth trajectory. This partnership goes beyond financial backing; it's a testament to the collaborative spirit and the transformative impact of our projects on India's energy landscape. Together, we aim to triple our operational capacity to 2.5 GW by 2026, contributing significantly to India's renewable energy goals.
Que: Can you elaborate on the specific renewable energy projects that Juniper Green Energy plans to undertake with INR 5,000 crore funding from the Power Finance Corporation?
Ans: The INR 5,000 crore funding from Power Finance Corporation marks a crucial step in realising our ambitious goals. We plan to use these funds to fuel the development of upcoming projects, particularly the 1200 MW of renewable energy projects. This includes a diversified portfolio of solar, wind, and hybrid projects, aligning with our commitment to contribute to India's ‘Net Zero’ target. The funding will enable us to achieve over 4000 MW of capacity by 2027, further solidifying our position as a pivotal player in India's renewable energy sector.
Que: Can you provide insights into the significance of the collaboration with SUNPURE for supplying 200 robotic cleaning systems for the 107 MW capacity and its role in Juniper Green Energy's overall portfolio?
Ans: The collaboration with SUNPURE for robotic cleaning systems is a strategic move to enhance the efficiency and performance of our solar projects. These advanced cleaning systems, supplying to our 107 MW capacity, play a crucial role in maintaining optimal output by ensuring the solar panels remain clean and efficient. This not only maximises energy generation but also extends the lifespan of the solar infrastructure. It's a testament to our commitment to adopting cutting-edge technologies for sustainable and efficient operations.
Que: How do you see the integration of advanced AI-based communication systems and machine learning in these robotic cleaning solutions contributing to efficiency and cost savings?
Ans: The integration of advanced AI and machine learning in our robotic cleaning solutions is a game-changer. It allows us to optimise cleaning schedules based on real-time data, weather conditions, and energy demand patterns. This predictive maintenance approach not only enhances efficiency by ensuring panels are cleaned precisely when needed but also contributes to significant cost savings through reduced manual intervention and optimal resource utilization. It exemplifies our commitment to innovation and sustainability in every aspect of our operations.
Que: Securing 190 MW of Wind capacity from GUVNL and 105 MW of Solar capacity from MSEDCL is impressive, also on an average tariff of INR 3.00 per kWh. How do these recent additions fit into Juniper Green Energy's overall growth and sustainability goals?
Ans: Securing additional wind and solar capacity at a competitive tariff is a testament to Juniper Green Energy's prowess in project development and execution. These additions align seamlessly with our growth trajectory, contributing to the overall goal of achieving over 4000 MW of capacity by 2027. The average tariff of INR 3.00 per kWh not only reflects our commitment to providing clean energy at affordable rates but also positions us as a key player in driving the economic viability of renewable energy in India.
Que: In your opinion, what are the key drivers and trends shaping the industry's future in the country?
Ans: The future of the renewable energy industry in India is shaped by several key drivers and trends. Firstly, the increasing emphasis on sustainability and the government's commitment to achieving ‘Net Zero’ emissions create a conducive environment for growth. Technology advancements, such as AI and machine learning, play a pivotal role in enhancing operational efficiency and reducing costs. Collaborations with strategic partners, like AT Group and Vitol, underscore the importance of strong partnerships in achieving ambitious goals. Additionally, the continued focus on competitive tariffs, as seen in recent projects, will be a driving force in making renewable energy economically viable and widely accessible across the country.
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