Frequently Asked Questions
The two main financing models for On-Site Solar Solutions are CAPEX and OPEX. In the CAPEX model, the client owns the solar system and pays the full cost upfront, benefiting from long-term savings. In the OPEX model, the developer owns the system, and the client pays only for the electricity consumed through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), with no upfront cost and the developer handling maintenance.
Switching to renewable energy can result in 30%–50% savings on electricity bills. Additionally, it allows your company to reduce its carbon footprint and contribute to a sustainable future.
When selecting a clean energy partner – focus on their track record in quality execution, long-term maintenance commitment, transparency in operations, and cost-saving potential over the project’s lifespan.
RE developers play a key role in advancing the global energy transition by enabling large-scale adoption of clean energy solutions, integrating advanced technologies, and offering sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels.
A renewable energy plant typically has a lifespan of 25 years. At Fourth Partner Energy, we ensure comprehensive Asset Management and Maintenance throughout the agreed PPA period to maximize efficiency.
Our Remote Monitoring System (RMS) offers clients a user-friendly dashboard to monitor plant performance in real-time. It provides detailed insights into daily generation, efficiency metrics, and even minor deviations, ensuring optimal performance.
Answering some common questions on On-Site Solar Solutions
On-Site Solar Solutions include Rooftop, Ground Mount, BIPV (Building Integrated Photovoltaics), Floating Solar, Solar Carport, Solar+BESS (Battery Energy Storage System) that is a step towards RTC or Round the Clock energy, amongst others. The choice of solution depends on factors like available space, building aesthetics, and energy requirements.
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CAPEX and OPEX are two effective financial models for On-Site Solar plants. The choice depends on factors such as financial strategy, ownership preference, readiness for capital investment, and roof space availability.
The installation timeline depends on the plant’s capacity. For example, a 500 kWp plant can be installed in approximately 35 days, whereas a 10 MWp plant may take 150 to 180 days. FPEL is known for its industry-best execution timelines.
No. With technical expertise, skilled workforce, and efficient planning, maintenance of a solar plant is neither expensive nor cumbersome. At FPEL, we offer annual O&M/ service agreements in addition to the PPA – where we take control of the entire plant maintenance post commissioning.
FPEL will be responsible for Asset Management and Operation & Maintenance (O&M) throughout the duration of the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). The plant will be continuously monitored to ensure optimal performance.
The space required depends on the type of On-Site Solution, such as ground-mounted or rooftop systems. For a rooftop shed, approximately 3,500 sq. meters of space is needed to install a 1 MWp solar power system.
Net metering allows surplus energy generated by the on-site solar plant to be exported to the grid. This surplus is credited against the energy consumed from the grid, leading to cost savings and optimized energy usage.
It is a little difficult to meet 100% of energy requirements through On-Site Solar. For achieving 100% power procurement through Renewable Energy, one should also make use of other solutions such as Open Access, I-RECs, etc.
Answering some common questions on Open Access Solutions
Captive Open Access involves a single entity owning and consuming power from its renewable energy plant. Group Captive allows multiple entities to jointly own and consume power. In the Third Party model, clean energy generated at open access parks across India is supplied to business facilities, using the state’s transmission lines.
Yes, incentives may include subsidies and exemptions from certain charges, such as the additional surcharge. However, these policies vary from state to state.
FPEL’s Open Access parks are strategically located across India, including states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh. These locations are chosen based on factors such as geographical efficiencies, availability of barren land, undamaged ecosystems, etc.
Corporate consumers using Open Access services are typically subject to charges such as transmission charges, wheeling charges, cross-subsidy surcharge, and additional surcharges. These charges are imposed by the respective states and vary based on the location, energy requirement.
Wind-Solar Hybrid systems provide reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable energy by integrating solar power during the day and wind power at night, ensuring continuous generation and enhancing round-the-clock (RTC) availability.
Open Access is ideal for energy-intensive industries such as manufacturing, textiles, chemicals, cement, and data centers, where high electricity consumption allows for cost savings and renewable energy adoption.
Yes, Wind Energy systems generally generate more power than solar systems, especially in regions with consistent wind patterns. However, solar energy has its own advantages that makes them one of the most sought-after options for Open Access.
Answering some common questions on BESS
Round-The-Clock (RTC) Renewable Energy ensures a continuous supply of renewable energy 24/7, achieved by combining different renewable sources like solar and wind with energy storage solutions, ensuring higher reliability. FPEL is the only RE developer currently to offer BESS as a solution, in addition to solar and wind energy.
The rising focus on BESS is due to their ability to store excess renewable energy, enhance grid stability, and provide reliable clean energy during periods of low generation or peak demand.
Adding BESS to your RE power supply system helps ensure consistent energy availability, optimizes power usage, and reduces reliance on the grid, especially during periods of low generation or peak demand.
BESS is highly reliable, functioning by storing excess energy during peak renewable generation periods and discharging it when demand exceeds supply, ensuring a steady and dependable power supply.
The main components of a BESS are:
- Battery Bank (e.g., lithium-ion, lead-acid) stores the energy.
- Bidirectional PCS converts AC to DC and vice versa.
- Battery Container houses the battery system.
- Battery Management System (BMS) controls safety and performance.
- Energy Management System (EMS) regulates and monitors system operations.
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The duration of power supply during an outage depends on the capacity of the BESS and the energy demand. Typically, a BESS can provide backup power for several hours to a few days, depending on its size and the load.
BESS differs from traditional systems like Pumped Hydro Storage (PHS) in that it is more flexible, scalable, and suitable for a wider range of locations. PHS requires specific geographical conditions, whereas BESS can be deployed in a variety of settings and offers faster response times.
Answering some common questions on I-RECs
Obtaining RE certificates proves the purchase of renewable energy but does not necessarily mean direct procurement of clean energy for your operations. It is a way to demonstrate renewable energy usage without directly sourcing power.
Obtaining RE certificates proves the purchase of renewable energy but does not necessarily mean direct procurement of clean energy for your operations. It is a way to demonstrate renewable energy usage without directly sourcing power.
Yes, International Renewable Energy Certificates (I-RECs) are legally recognized and are governed by the International Tracking Standard Foundation (I-TRACK).
Purchasing RECs helps companies meet their sustainability goals, such as RE100 and Net Zero targets, by demonstrating their commitment to renewable energy and offsetting their carbon footprint. This option is particularly beneficial for companies facing challenges like space constraints.
I-RECs do not have a specific expiration date. Once issued, they remain valid indefinitely until they are redeemed or retired. However, as a best practice, and in line with the Green-e® Energy Standard’s recommendations, I-RECs should ideally be used or retired within 21 months of their generation.