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Context

India faces the dual challenge of increasing energy demand and transitioning to a sustainable, low-carbon future. Hybrid models, integrating solar, wind, and storage technologies, offer a solution by combining intermittent renewable energy with advanced storage.

How Hybrid Solar-Wind-Storage Models Work?

It works by integrating solar panels, wind turbines, and a battery energy storage system (BESS) through smart control systems to provide a consistent and reliable power supply. 

Role of Energy Storage Systems (ESS)

They store surplus energy generated during peak production hours and discharge it during periods of low generation or high demand. 

• This 'time-shifting' capability smooths out power output, regulates grid frequency, and prevents outages. 

The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) projects India will install 34 gigawatts (GW) or 136 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of battery energy storage by 2030. 

India is projected to achieve the highest battery storage capacity globally by 2040, potentially reaching 140-200 gigawatts (GW), according to the International Energy Agency’s India Energy Outlook 2021.

Hybridisation: Why India Needs This Model?

Addressing Intermittency and Variability

Solar power peaks during daytime hours, while wind power generates more electricity at night or during specific seasons. 

Hybrid systems create a more consistent and predictable power output, minimizing the fluctuations that destabilize the grid.

Optimizing Resource Utilization

Hybrid projects allow optimal utilization of land and shared transmission infrastructure, reducing overall land footprint and infrastructure costs. 

This approach reduces land requirements and infrastructure costs; important in a densely populated country where land acquisition for large projects is challenging.

Enhancing Grid Stability and Reliability

Hybrid energy systems with integrated storage enhance grid stability and provide a continuous power supply by addressing the inconsistency of renewable energy sources; meeting peak demand when solar power is reduced.

Initiatives taken by the Indian Government to promote hybrid renewable energy

National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy (2018)

Launched by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) to provide a framework for promoting large grid-connected wind-solar PV hybrid systems. 

Its objectives include efficient utilization of transmission infrastructure and land, reduction in renewable power generation variability, and enhanced grid stability. 

It encourages battery storage integration to optimize output and reduce variability.

Viability Gap Funding (VGF) Scheme

Announced in 2023, this scheme allocates Rs 3,760 crore to develop 4,000 MWh of battery storage systems, offering financial support up to 40% of the project's capital cost. (Source: PIB)

Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme

Supports domestic manufacturing of Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) batteries, allocating ₹18,100 crore to achieve 50 GWh of battery capacities. (Source: PIB)

Energy Storage Obligations (ESO)

Applicable to distribution utilities, ESOs will gradually increase from 1% in 2023-24 to 4% by 2029-30, stimulating demand for storage solutions. (Source: Ministry of Power)

PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana

Launched in 2024, it targets installing rooftop solar in 1 crore households by March 2027, providing subsidies up to 40% (up to ₹78,000 for above 3kW systems). (Source: PIB)

Challenges faced by Hybrid solar-wind-storage models 

Technical and Grid Integration Issue

• Complexity: Combining diverse energy sources and storage into the existing grid is inherently complex.
• Instability Risk: Frequency mismatches between hybrid systems and the utility grid can lead to grid instability.

Land and Resource Constraints

• Acquisition Delays: Large-scale projects demand land, causing project delays due to acquisition difficulties.
• Non-Coinciding Locations: Ideal sites for wind and solar resources often don't overlap, requiring meticulous planning and resource assessment.

Financial Barriers

• High Upfront Costs: Hybrid systems, especially those with battery storage, have higher initial capital costs compared to standalone solar or wind projects.
• Financing Difficulties: Despite emerging competitive rates and falling battery prices, securing financing for these capital-intensive projects remains a challenge.

Supply Chain Vulnerabilities for Storage

• Emerging Market: India's battery storage market is still in its nascent stages.
• Import Reliance: Despite domestic manufacturing initiatives (PLI scheme), India heavily depends on imported components, particularly rare earth minerals crucial for advanced battery technologies.
• Cost Dependency: About 80% of Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) costs are linked to batteries and related components, creating supply chain risks.

Way Forward to fully harness the potential of hybrid solar-wind-storage models 

Promote Indigenous Manufacturing of Storage

Accelerating the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme and investing in research and development for alternative battery chemistries to reduce dependency on imports and lower costs.

Streamline Policies and Regulatory Frameworks

Consistent and clear policies, along with faster clearances and a robust legal framework, are essential to attract investments and expedite project execution. 

Invest in Transmission Infrastructure

Improve intrastate and interstate transmission networks to bring power from areas with high renewable energy generation to places that need it.

Technological Advancements

Encouraging innovation in energy storage technologies, smart grid solutions, and forecasting tools will enhance the efficiency and reliability of hybrid systems.

Address Financing Challenges

Exploring innovative financing mechanisms, de-risking projects, and ensuring competitive but sustainable tariff structures to attract more private capital.  

Conclusion

Hybrid solar-wind-storage models stabilize renewable power by balancing intermittency. With strong policies, investments, and innovation, India drives a reliable clean energy transition and global green leadership..

Source: DOWNTOEARTH