Que: Where do compressors fit into the larger renewable energy value chain, particularly in solar manufacturing and deployment processes?

Ans: 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 installation to power equipment, clean panels, and cool solar farms.

They also support energy storage systems by regulating pressure and temperature. So, while compressors are not the most visible aspect of solar energy, they quietly keep many essential processes running efficiently and reliably, from manufacturing lines to large-scale solar installations.

Que: Can you get into more detail about the various uses of compressors in solar, from running pneumatic tools to automation and precision cleaning?

Ans: 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 robotic arms and cylinders for precise movement, positioning, and testing on the production line.
• Coating and Etching: Compressed air supports coating, diffusion, 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, especially 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 inverters and electronics.
• Automation and Control Systems: In concentrated solar power (CSP) plants, compressed air moves mirrors or lenses and powers pneumatic controls for accuracy.
• General Maintenance: It’s handy for cleaning, purging filters, and other routine upkeep tasks.

Energy Applications
• Energy Storage: Solar-powered compressors can store surplus 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 compressors are great for remote or off-grid sites where reliability and sustainability matter.

Que: How do your intelligent, connected, and smart air systems help make solar manufacturers ready for Smart Manufacturing and Industry 4.0?

Ans: Atlas Copco is making a significant contribution to the smooth transition of solar manufacturers to Industry 4.0. Our intelligent and connected air systems, like SMARTLINK, provide real-time insights into equipment performance, allowing teams to monitor operations and plan maintenance before issues arise. The Elektronikon controllers connect everything together, providing a clear view of the compressed air system for real-time optimisation.

What’s interesting is how data drives everything; smart tools record every process, flag errors, and ensure perfect assembly. With variable speed drive compressors, the system automatically adjusts motor speed to match air demand, saving energy while maintaining performance. All of this data goes into a continuous improvement cycle, which helps to enhance quality, efficiency, and even R&D.

Additionally, our systems integrate easily with existing setups and support 5G connectivity for faster, safer communication. The outcome results in lower energy use, fewer emissions, and a cleaner, more sustainable manufacturing process for the solar industry.

Que: What demand trends or new applications do you see in the solar market for air and gas systems?

Ans: The solar industry is obviously shifting towards cleaner and smarter operations. We are experiencing high demand for air and gas systems that promote decarbonisation and energy efficiency. Solar thermal integration, solar-powered HVAC, and AI/IoT-based optimisation are driving this trend, allowing enterprises to save costs, improve performance, and reduce their carbon footprint. Turnkey compressed air and gas solutions are being preferred as they offer a one-stop solution and ownership of the complete system.

Stringent compressed air quality is used to maintain product quality, especially in solar cell manufacturing.

Decarbonisation Push: Industries are evaluating suppliers on a total cost of ownership basis, and energy efficiency is given priority. Also, industries are replacing fossil-fuel-driven pneumatic systems with solar-powered compressors to reduce carbon footprints.

O&M Optimisation: Solar plants require compressed air for cleaning panels (dust removal) and operating pneumatic actuators in tracking systems. Demand for low-maintenance, energy-efficient compressors is rising.

Que: How is digitalisation transforming compressor management and maintenance?

Ans: Digitalisation has completely changed how compressors are managed and maintained. Earlier, maintenance was mostly reactive; when something would go wrong, and then the team would fix it. Now, with connected compressors and smart monitoring systems, we can track performance and air consumption in real time. This data assists in identifying even minor inefficiencies before they become major ones.

It's also enabled predictive maintenance. Instead of following a fixed schedule, service is done based on actual equipment condition. This not only cuts downtime but also saves energy and money. Overall, digitalisation is making compressor management far more efficient, reliable, and sustainable.

Que: How do you envision the future of the compressor industry in India, particularly in the context of renewable energy and smart manufacturing?

Ans: The future of the compressor industry in India looks promising, driven by two major trends: renewable energy integration and smart manufacturing.

India has already crossed 200 GW of renewable capacity and targets 500 GW by 2030, creating a strong push for green industrialisation.

Compressors will play a key role in both module and cell manufacturing, green hydrogen production, carbon capture, and energy-efficient processes. Adoption of IoT-enabled compressors, predictive maintenance, and AI-driven monitoring will become standard. These technologies reduce downtime and optimise energy use. Variable Speed Drive (VSD) technology is now widely adopted, significantly improving energy efficiency. Large-scale installations are moving toward centrifugal compressors for better performance.

The compressor industry in India is moving toward energy efficiency, digitalisation, and sustainability, making it a critical enabler for smart factories and renewable energy ecosystems.