One of the most widely recognized forms of renewable energy is solar power. Solar panels are able to convert sunlight into electricity, providing a clean and abundant source of energy. In recent years, advancements in solar technology have made it more affordable and accessible to homeowners and businesses. Solar power has the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and decrease our reliance on finite resources such as coal and oil. Solar photovoltaic (PV) technology is a type of renewable energy that harnesses the power of the sun to generate electricity. This innovative technology has gained popularity in recent years as a clean and sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuels. Solar PV systems are becoming increasingly widespread in both residential and commercial applications, providing a reliable source of electricity while reducing carbon emissions and reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
Photovoltaic cells, also known as solar cells, are the building blocks of solar PV technology. These cells are made of semiconductor materials, such as silicon, that have the ability to convert sunlight into electricity through a process known as the photovoltaic effect. When light hits the surface of a solar cell, it excites electrons within the material, causing them to move and create an electric current. This electricity can then be harnessed and used to power electrical devices or be stored in batteries for later use.
Solar PV systems are made up of multiple solar cells connected together to form a solar panel. These panels can be installed on rooftops, open fields, or other suitable locations where they can receive maximum sunlight exposure. The panels are typically mounted at an angle facing the sun to optimize energy production throughout the day. In addition, solar PV systems may also include inverters, which convert the direct current (DC) electricity generated by the panels into alternating current (AC) electricity that can be used in homes and businesses.
One of the key benefits of solar PV technology is its environmental sustainability. Unlike fossil fuels, solar energy is a clean and renewable resource that does not produce harmful greenhouse gas emissions or contribute to air pollution. By investing in solar PV systems, individuals and businesses can reduce their carbon footprint and help combat climate change. In addition, solar energy can help to decrease dependence on finite sources of energy, such as coal and oil, which are becoming increasingly expensive and environmentally damaging to extract and use.
Another advantage of solar PV technology is its versatility and scalability. Solar panels can be installed on a small scale, providing electricity for individual homes or businesses, or on a larger scale, powering entire communities or even cities. In remote areas with limited access to the grid, solar PV systems can provide a reliable source of electricity that is independent of traditional power sources. This can help to increase energy security and resilience in the face of natural disasters or other disruptions to the grid.
While solar PV technology offers many benefits, there are still challenges to its widespread adoption. One of the main barriers is the initial cost of installing solar panels, which can be prohibitive for some individuals and businesses. However, with advancements in technology and government incentives, the cost of solar PV systems is steadily decreasing, making them more affordable and accessible to a wider range of consumers. In addition, improvements in energy storage technology, such as batteries and other energy storage solutions, are helping to address the issue of intermittent sunlight availability and enable solar energy to be used around the clock. In conclusion, solar photovoltaic technology is a promising and sustainable solution to our energy needs. By harnessing the power of the sun, solar PV systems can provide clean and renewable electricity that can help to reduce carbon emissions, promote energy independence, and create a more sustainable future for generations to come. As we continue to invest in and expand the use of solar PV technology, we can work towards a more environmentally friendly and resilient energy system that benefits both people and the planet. Solar photovoltaic power plants have become an increasingly popular solution for providing electricity to off-grid locations. Till date KREDA has installed more than 400 units of PV plants, of capacity between 2.5kWp to 100kWp in different institutions, villages and individual houses.
Because of the scattered nature of the villages there is a huge problem with distribution and transmission through power grid systems. The transmission lines are very long resulting in poor voltage regulation and high distribution losses and also it requires huge capital investment which is financially not feasible. Therefore, KREDA is concentrating on decentralized power generation policy, which would be the best alternative for such rural and far-flung areas/villages of Kargil.
The impact of the solar photovoltaic power plants installed in different areas/villages of Ladakh in off-grid has been significant. These power plants provide clean energy from renewable source, i.e. sun which can help in reducing the public dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate the effects of climate change. The systems do also improve living conditions of the people, support economic development, and enhance quality of life of the rural areas.
Despite these benefits, there are also challenges associated with solar photovoltaic power plants in off-grid settings. One major issue is to replace the battery banks in every 5 years, as the battery does have only 4000-5000 cycles which exhausts in a period of not more than 5 to six years. Secondly, solar power generation is dependent on weather conditions, which can be unpredictable and may limit the reliability of off-grid systems. There are also technical challenges related to maintenance and operation of off-grid solar power plants, particularly in remote or isolated locations of Ladakh. KREDA has trained the local operators for maintenance of the PVs.
| PV Capacity | Ins./Vill | 2016-18 | 2021-22 | 2022-23 | 2023-24 | ||||
| Ground Mounted PVs | Cumulative Installed Capacity | Ground Mounted PVs | Cumulative Installed Capacity | Ground Mounted PVs | Cumulative Installed Capacity | Ground Mounted PVs | Cumulative Installed Capacity | ||
| 2.5 kWp to 100 kWp | Institutions | 65 nos. | 367.5 kWp | 32 nos. | 448kWp | 0 | 0 | 11nos. | 42kWP |
| 3kWp to 100kWP | Villages | 28 nos. | 1210 kWp | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 9nos. | 385kWp |
| PV Capacity | Ins./Vill | 2016-18 | |
| Roof-Top | Cumulative Installed Capacity | ||
| 5kWp | Institutions/Village | 350 nos. | 1750 |
