Interview: Varun Gupta
Chief Investment Officer and Head of Corporate Development at SAEL
SAEL to Redefine the Energy Landscape by Delivering Sustainable Solutions
May 02, 2024. By Anurima Mondal
Que: Kindly mention SAEL Industries' key portfolio. How do their solutions compete with domestic as well as international competitors?
Ans: SAEL Industries has a committed renewable energy portfolio of 4 GW, which includes solar and waste-to-energy projects. We also have a module manufacturing capacity of 2.3 GW, providing additional comfort towards securing the supply for the solar energy projects in our pipeline.
Our waste-to-energy projects use crop residue to generate electricity, which is otherwise burnt, creating widespread pollution in Northern India. These projects differentiate us from our competitors.
Norfund and DFC, being our equity partners, are fully committed to ensuring that we comply with IFC Standards in all our projects, furthering our commitment towards net-zero emissions and a greener tomorrow.
Que: SAEL emerged victorious in the recent Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam's (GUVNL) auction. Kindly brief us about the bidding and how will SAEL’s solutions help in the establishment of the GIPCL solar park.
Ans: SAEL has a Project Monitoring Committee (PMC) with Norfund and Key Management as members. Before entering any bids, the PMC evaluates each proposal with detailed commercial, technical, and environmental analysis. This ensures future profitability and steady cash flows.
The GIPCL Solar Park is a monumental milestone in India’s journey towards adopting renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions. This will enable multiple solar projects to be set up in the same vicinity, making use of common infrastructure; thereby leading to economies of scale.
SAEL is setting up solar projects with a capacity of 1.5 GW at Khavda Solar Park. The projects will be utilising the latest technology of high-efficiency modules. Our expertise in engineering, procurement, construction, and operations of solar power plants in India will enable us to set up and run the power plant efficiently.
Que: How do SAEL’s module manufacturing plants in Rajasthan and Punjab contribute to the ‘Make in India’ initiative?
Ans: We have a 2.3 GW module manufacturing capacity in Rajasthan and Punjab. This was set up with a view to becoming self-reliant; being in the business of construction and operations of solar power plants.
Make in India aims to promote domestic manufacturing and attract foreign investments in India. It’s based on 4 main principles: New Mindset, New Sectors, New Infrastructure and New Processes.
The founders have a dynamic mindset that enables them to venture into new sectors like module manufacturing while focusing on steady cash flows and innovating processes. SAEL’s module manufacturing line boasts cutting-edge robotic technology which makes the process highly effective and efficient.
The module manufacturing line will not only increase the domestic production of modules but will also create employment opportunities for the rural population.
Que: With a renewable portfolio of 3200 MW, how does SAEL plan to expand or enhance its energy production capabilities in the near future?
Ans: We are already at 4 GW. This would provide a sense of SAEL’s commitment to expanding its renewable energy portfolio. SAEL plans to invest USD 2 billion in renewable projects in India by FY25. We have revamped our management teams by appointing professionals with the best requisite experience. We are setting up our module manufacturing line to enable us to maintain a steady supply of modules in line with our growth.
Que: How does SAEL manage the build, operate, transfer (BOT) model for installing biomass plants for other customers?
Ans: SAEL Industries implements the builds and operates for installing biomass plants by meticulously managing each phase of the process. Initially, our Project Monitoring Committee, comprising Norfund and key management personnel, thoroughly evaluates each proposal, ensuring its feasibility and alignment with our standards. Once a project is approved, our team utilises the best-in-class, latest technology supported by leading practices in engineering, procurement, and construction to efficiently build and operate biomass plants. Throughout the operational phase, we adhere to stringent environmental and safety protocols, ensuring smooth functioning and optimal performance.
Upon completion of the agreed-upon term, we transfer the operational responsibilities to the client, providing comprehensive training and support to facilitate a seamless transition. This approach not only ensures the success of the biomass plants but also strengthens our reputation as a reliable and innovative solutions provider in the renewable energy sector.
Que: Over the 10 years of operation, how has SAEL evolved its waste-to-energy solutions to be more efficient and reliable?
Ans: Technology plays a big part in making any process more efficient. New boilers with traveling grate technology which are in all our plants now lead to a 25 percent increase in PLFs. We have also perfected the process of procuring and storing crop residue. The promoter’s prior experience in agriculture has enabled them to build a network of connections which further increases efficiency and reliability.
Que: With SAEL's focus on solar and waste-to-energy projects, how does the company plan to contribute to India's commitment to harnessing clean and green energy sources?
Ans: SAEL is on a mission to redefine the energy landscape by delivering scalable, sustainable solutions that resonate on a global scale. We are committed to leveraging cutting-edge technologies and best practices to deliver reliable, clean energy to drive the adoption of renewable energy across diverse markets. Through our solar and agri-waste-to-energy projects, we aim to address pressing global challenges, from climate change mitigation to rural development and beyond. We prioritise empowering local communities by providing employment opportunities, skills training, and capacity-building initiatives, ensuring that the benefits of sustainable energy reach those who need them most. Together with our partners and stakeholders, we are building a future where prosperity knows no boundaries, and every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
please contact: contact@energetica-india.net.