Interview

GENERAL MANAGER PAHAL SOLAR

MR. NITIN BARVALIYA

Q. How do you see Pahal Solar expanding over the next ten years or so? Please enlighten our readers about the marvelous journey so far?

Over the next ten years, Pahal Solar aims to further expand its production capacity and presence in the Indian solar market. With our aggressive expansion plans, we expect to increase our annual production capacity from 800 MW to 1600MW within short time. Throughout our journey so far, Pahal Solar has experienced significant growth and success. We started as one of the top solar companies in Gujarat and have now established ourselves as one of the best solar panel companies in India. Our commitment to innovation, quality, and reliability has been instrumental in our achievements. We have also formed partnerships with Japanese companies, further enhancing our capabilities and technological expertise. These collaborations have allowed us to bring cutting-edge solar technologies to India and contribute to the country’s energy transition and climate objectives. Pahal Solar’s marvelous journey has been driven by a strong focus on customer satisfaction and continuous improvement. We strive to meet the needs of commercial and industrial clients as well as residential customers looking to adopt solar energy. Our high-performance solar PV modules have consistently delivered reliable power and helped our clients reduce their carbon footprint. As we move forward, Pahal Solar will continue to play a crucial role in India’s solar energy sector. We will leverage our experience, expertise, and partnerships to contribute to the country’s sustainable development goals and drive the adoption of solar energy on a larger scale. With our unwavering commitment to quality and innovation, we aspire to be at the forefront of the solar industry in India and beyond.

 

Q. What is your current manufacturing capacity? What are your expansion plans?

Pahal solar started with 40MW/ annual in 2016 with 12 employees. As we got great response by supplied quality wise product we expanded our capacity year by year and now our capacity is 800MW/annum which is fully automatic with more than 400+ skilled employees with us. I am talking about expanding. Then, definitely say that I am happy to share that we will again add more 800Mw production soon neat our factory.

 

Q. What is the scope for MonoCrystalline and PolyCrystalline panels in India and what is Pahal’s focus and why?

In India, both mono crystalline and poly crystalline solar panels have a significant scope and market demand. However, there are certain factors that differentiate the two and influence their usage in different applications. Mono crystalline panels, made from a single crystal structure, generally have higher efficiency and better performance in low light conditions. They also have a sleek, black appearance that can be desirable for certain residential and commercial installations. However, they tend to be slightly more expensive compared to poly crystalline panels. Poly crystalline panels, made from multiple crystal structures, have lower efficiency but are more affordable. They are suitable for various applications, especially in large utility-scale projects where costeffectiveness is a priority. Pahal Solar’s focus is on manufacturing both mono crystalline and poly crystalline solar panels. This allows us to cater to a broader range of customer needs and applications. Our superior-quality mono crystalline panels are known for their high output and reliable power generation, making them suitable for customers looking for maximum efficiency and performance. Simultaneously, our polycrystalline panels provide a cost-effective solution without compromising significantly on quality and performance. By offering both types of panels, Pahal Solar aims to provide customers with a range of options to choose from based on their specific requirements and budget constraints. Our focus on manufacturing both mono crystalline and poly crystalline panels aligns with our commitment to meeting the diverse needs of C&I and residential clients adopting solar energy in India.

 

Q. What policy changes would you like to see to help Solar PV Modules flourish? Is there anything else that can boost the solar installations in India?

As a solar PV module manufacturer and solar EPC contractor in India, Pahal Solar believes that certain policy changes can help the solar industry flourish and boost solar installations in the country. Here are a few policy changes that could be beneficial. 1. Enhanced financial incentives 2. Streamlined regulatory processes 3. Robust net metering policies 4. Long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs) 5. Increased focus on R&D and technology innovation Apart from policy changes, there are other factors that can boost solar installations in India, such as: 1. Awareness campaigns and educational programs: Conducting awareness campaigns and educational programs to educate individuals and businesses about the benefits of solar energy can create a more informed customer base and promote the adoption of solar PV modules. 2. Infrastructure development: Developing robust solar infrastructure, such as efficient distribution networks and grid integration mechanisms, can facilitate a smooth integration of solar power into the existing energy grid. This would enable increased solar installations and maximize the utilization of solar energy. 3. Industry collaborations and partnerships: Encouraging collaborations and partnerships between different stakeholders, including solar manufacturers, EPC contractors, government agencies, financial institutions, and research organizations, can foster innovation, knowledge sharing, and the development of a strong solar ecosystem in India. By implementing these policy changes and focusing on other factors that boost solar installations, India can create a conductive environment for the flourishing of the solar PV module industry and accelerate the country’s transition towards clean and sustainable energy.

 

Q. What is the extent of your Renewables Portfolio and what technologies does it cover?

We offers the following technologies and corresponding power output ranges:

1. Poly crystalline modules - DCR/NDCR: 330 to 345 Wp

2. MONO PERC modules - DCR/NDCR: 540 to 550 Wp

3. Bifacial modules - DCR/NDCR: 540/545 Wp

4. Topcon modules: 580 to 640 Wp

These technologies cover a range of solar PV module options with varying power outputs, catering to the diverse needs of utility scale, commercial, industrial, and residential clients adopting solar energy. While the extent of Pahal Solar’s renewable portfolio, we are in the top 10 emerging module manufacturers in India as per JMK Research reports. We focused mostly in the western and south markets. Now we have more than 35 No. of experience marketing person in various areas of India so we will be available all over India. We are also focused on the African and American markets with helping our known partners from USA and Spain after starting our new factory.

 

Q. What are the roadblocks in the pathway of India’s EPC segment’s growth trajectory?

The EPC segment plays a vital role in the growth of the solar industry in India. While the sector has experienced significant growth, there are several roadblocks that can hinder its further trajectory. Some of the challenges faced by India’s EPC segment include:

1. Policy instability and regulatory challenges

2. Land acquisition and project Approvals

3. Financing barriers

4. Infrastructure challenges 

5. Skilled labor shortage

6. Quality control and project performance

7. Payment delays Addressing these roadblocks requires concerted efforts from various stakeholders, including the government, financial institutions, industry associations, and EPC players.

Continued policy support, streamlined processes, improved infrastructure, better access to financing, and skill development initiatives can help overcome these challenges and foster the growth of India’s EPC segment.

 

Q. How can these challenges of the industry be addressed? How is your company contributing towards this transition?

The EPC segment plays a vital role in the growth of the solar industry in India. While the sector has experienced significant address the challenges faced by the solar EPC industry in India, several measures can be taken, and Pahal Solar, as a leading player in the sector, can contribute in the following ways:

1. Policy advocacy: Pahal Solar can actively engage with industry associations and policymakers to advocate for stable and favorable policies. This includes lobbying for predictable regulations, transparent tender processes, tax incentives, and supportive measures that encourage investment and growth in the EPC segment.

2. Collaborations and partnerships: Pahal Solar can collaborate with financial institutions and industry partners to develop innovative financing solutions that address the funding barriers. This can include exploring options like low-interest loans, long-term project financing, and collaborations with banks to provide easier access to capital.

3. Skill development initiatives: Pahal Solar can contribute to addressing the skilled labor shortage by investing in training and capacity-building programs. This can involve partnerships with vocational training institutes, conducting skill development workshops, and providing on-the-job training to enhance the skillset of workers in the solar EPC field.

4. Quality control and performance standards: Pahal Solar can maintain stringent quality control measures in its manufacturing processes and project execution. By adhering to international quality standards and certifications, Pahal Solar can ensure the delivery of high-quality solar PV modules and installations, contributing to increased project performance and longevity.

5. Technology innovation: Pahal Solar can invest in research and development (R&D) activities to drive technology innovation in the solar EPC sector. This can include developing advanced solar PV technologies, energy storage solutions, and developing smart grid integration capabilities. Such innovations can help overcome infrastructure challenges and enhance the efficiency and reliability of solar installations.

6. Financial stability: Pahal Solar can maintain a strong financial position and ensure timely payments to subcontractors and suppliers. By establishing a reputation for financial stability and timely payments, Pahal Solar can contribute to improving the financial health of the EPC industry and build trust among stakeholders. By actively contributing in these ways, Pahal Solar can help address the challenges faced by the industry and contribute to the overall transition towards a sustainable and thriving solar EPC segment in India.

 

Q. Could you tell us about your major projects and clientele you are catering to?

About us, we have more than 2000 EPC partners in india and those regular deals with us. But I special talk about special clients than Mr. Bhavesh Patel from B K Renewable, who brought 9MW solar panels from us for SSDSP (like the KUSUM C) project. He visited every solar module manufacturer and met all, but he finally came to pahal Solar and chose our product because of Japanese partnership and quality manners. After Commissioning phase 1, we visited there and talked about our panels. He was fully satisfied with quality, and he talked about well experienced with pahal solar team.

 

Q. REI celebrated its glorious 15 years and now it’s coming up with a bang in 2023. Would you like to invite your customers with any special message through our platform?

Celebrating 15 years of REI is indeed a significant milestone in the renewable energy industry. Pahal Solar appreciates the opportunity to be a part of this journey and would like to extend a special message to our valuable customers through your platform: “We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed customers for their unwavering trust and support over the years. We are immensely proud to be a part of your transition towards sustainable and clean energy solutions. Together, we have been working towards a solar-driven future, promoting environmental stewardship, and contributing to India’s energy transition. As we celebrate REI’s glorious 15 years and eagerly look forward to the upcoming event in 2023, we want to assure you that Pahal Solar remains committed to delivering exceptional quality, performance, and service. Our team of dedicated professionals and the strong partnerships we have cultivated with industry leaders enable us to continuously provide innovative solar PV solutions tailored to meet your specific needs. We invite our valued customers to join us in this celebration, to connect, share insights, and explore new avenues for collaboration at the REI event in 2023. It will be an excellent opportunity to exchange knowledge, showcase achievements, and collectively drive the solar industry forward. Thank you once again for choosing Pahal Solar as your trusted partner. We stand ready to serve you with our quality solar PV modules, expertise, and unwavering commitment to your success. Let’s continue our journey together towards a greener and brighter future.” Pahal Solar looks forward to creating meaningful connections with customers at the REI event and collaborating to accelerate the growth of the solar industry in India.