Question 1

What is a Solar Rooftop System?

Accepted Answer

In a solar rooftop system, solar panels are installed on the roof of any residential, commercial, institutional, or industrial building. This can be of three primary types: (i) Grid Connected Solar Rooftop System (without battery storage), (ii) Solar Rooftop System with battery storage facility (Off-Grid), and (iii) Hybrid Solar Rooftop System (Grid Connected along with Battery Storage backup).

Question 2

What is a Grid Connected Solar Rooftop System?

Accepted Answer

In a Grid connected Solar Rooftop PV system, the DC power generated from SPV panels is converted to AC power using a power conditioning unit (inverter). Generated power during daytime is utilized fully for powering facility loads, and excess power is fed into the grid through net metering. A grid-connected system is operational as long as the grid is available. In cases where solar power is insufficient due to cloud cover or night time, loads are served seamlessly by drawing power from the grid, which acts as a virtual storage facility.

Question 3

How Do We Generate Electricity From The Sun?

Accepted Answer

Solar energy systems work when sunlight hits a solar photovoltaic module (solar panel or PV panel) and causes electric current to flow through semiconductor cells. The direct current (DC) produced by the PV panels is controlled and regulated by an inverter, which converts DC into alternating current (AC), needed for operating machinery, commercial equipment, and household appliances.

Question 4

What is a Solar Rooftop System with Storage facility?

Accepted Answer

Such rooftop systems incorporate a battery energy storage facility. The solar electricity generated during daytime sunshine hours is stored in the battery bank and can be utilized during the night or during power cuts when solar generation is not available.

Question 5

When do the batteries come into the picture while installing solar?

Accepted Answer

If you are going for an off-grid or hybrid solar solution, solar batteries are one of the crucial components as they allow you to store the electricity generated by the solar plant and use it in case of power outages or in case of no mains. A good battery provides long backup duration, high cyclic life, and requires minimal maintenance.

Question 6

Does solar power work at night?

Accepted Answer

Solar panels require direct or diffuse sunlight to produce power, so they do not generate electricity at night. However, you can seamlessly get the power you need at night through bidirectional grid net metering (importing grid power offset by daytime export credits) or by installing a battery energy storage system (BESS) charged during daytime hours.

Question 7

What is the lifespan of solar panels?

Accepted Answer

Most Tier-1 solar panels have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years. Their efficiency typically degrades at a very low rate (around 0.5% per year), and modern panels are designed with linear performance warranties guaranteeing 80% to 85% of original rated performance after 25 years.

Question 8

Do solar panels work on cloudy days?

Accepted Answer

Yes, solar panels work on cloudy days or when the sun is not shining as brightly. Power output can be slightly reduced, but the solar panels still produce clean electricity from ambient diffuse radiation to help meet your facility power needs.

Question 9

What is solar EPC?

Accepted Answer

Solar EPC stands for Engineering, Procurement, and Construction. It is a comprehensive, turnkey project delivery model where a single dedicated contractor handles the entire lifecycle of a solar installation: architectural layout, civil & structural engineering, electrical single-line diagrams (SLD), Tier-1 equipment procurement, DISCOM/CEIG statutory liaisoning, grid integration, and testing commissioning.

Question 10

How much electricity can a solar plant generate?

Accepted Answer

In India, a well-engineered solar power plant typically generates 1,300 to 1,550 kWh (units) per kWp annually, translating to approximately 3.6 to 4.2 units per kWp per day. Exact generation depends on geographic global horizontal irradiance (GHI), module tilt angle, shading profiles, inverter efficiency, and thermal degradation characteristics.

Question 11

What does Chirayu's EPC service include?

Accepted Answer

Chirayu's turnkey EPC scope encompasses: geotechnical and structural wind analysis, 3D shadow simulations, electrical SLD and protective relay engineering, Tier-1 module & inverter procurement, hot-dip galvanized mounting structures, balance of plant (AC/DC combiner boxes, HT transformers, vacuum circuit breakers), statutory liaisoning (CEIG/DISCOM approvals), synchronized grid charging, and performance ratio (PR) testing.

Question 12

How does Chirayu evaluate a solar project?

Accepted Answer

Evaluation begins with drone-assisted 3D photogrammetry and topographical site audits to map azimuth, tilt, and obstacles. Structural engineers audit building load-bearing capacity, while electrical engineers log 15-minute power quality parameters to produce an investment-grade Detailed Project Report (DPR).

Question 13

What happens during project development?

Accepted Answer

Project development advances through 4 structured milestones: (1) Technical design & component finalization; (2) Statutory grid connectivity application & DISCOM sanction; (3) Civil foundations, module mounting structure (MMS) erection & electrical cabling; and (4) CEIG electrical inspector testing, net-metering commissioning, and plant handover.

Question 14

How long does a solar EPC project take?

Accepted Answer

Rooftop industrial systems (100 kW to 1 MW) typically reach commercial operation in 6 to 12 weeks. Ground-mount and utility-scale projects (2 MW to 25 MW) require 16 to 24 weeks depending on land development, dedicated bay construction at the substation, and transmission line right-of-way (ROW) clearance.

Question 15

What approvals are required?

Accepted Answer

Standard industrial solar installations require: (1) DISCOM grid feasibility and connectivity sanction; (2) Chief Electrical Inspector to Government (CEIG) electrical safety drawing approval & charging inspection; (3) State Pollution Control Board clearance (if applicable); and (4) Bi-directional / SEM meter testing and synchronization certificate.

Question 16

Is there any need to take permission from Electricity Supply Utility to install solar power plant?

Accepted Answer

For Grid Connected Solar Power Plants, there is a detailed process followed as per Electricity Supply Utility (DISCOM) Rules and Regulations for installation, technical feasibility, net metering, and commissioning. There is no permission required for installing an Off-Grid Solar System.

Question 17

What does solar O&M include?

Accepted Answer

Comprehensive Operations & Maintenance includes scheduled module cleaning, thermographic drone inspections to identify micro-cracks and hot spots, IV curve tracing, transformer oil dissolved gas analysis (DGA), switchgear contact resistance testing, vegetation control, and 24/7 SCADA cloud performance tracking.

Question 18

How frequently does a solar plant need maintenance?

Accepted Answer

Module soiling cleaning cycles are conducted every 10 to 14 days in industrial or dusty zones (or automated via robotic waterless systems). Inverter and electrical switchgear preventive maintenance is performed quarterly, with annual calibration of protection relays and pyranometers.

Question 19

How is plant performance monitored?

Accepted Answer

Chirayu implements IoT-enabled SCADA telemetry that streams string-level current, voltage, weather station irradiation, ambient temperature, and inverter output to a centralized dashboard, providing automated anomaly alerts and daily generation yield reports.

Question 20

What happens if generation drops?

Accepted Answer

Our remote telemetry detects underperforming strings within minutes. Rapid-response field technicians carry thermal imaging cameras and digital earth testers to isolate module hotspots, blown fuses, inverter fault codes, or grid curtailments, maintaining guaranteed 99%+ plant availability.

Question 21

How does Chirayu handle preventive maintenance?

Accepted Answer

Preventive maintenance follows a digital calendar covering: torquing checks on structural fasteners to withstand 150 km/h wind gusts, insulation resistance (megger) testing of DC cables, earthing pit resistance measurement (< 1 ohm target), and inverter air filter replacements before peak generation seasons.

Question 22

How much maintenance do solar panels require?

Accepted Answer

Solar panels are relatively low-maintenance as they are solid-state and have no moving parts. Regular cleaning to remove dirt and debris, as well as occasional checks on the system’s wiring, inverters, and electrical components, are usually sufficient.

Question 23

What is the typical payback period for solar?

Accepted Answer

For industrial and commercial consumers on high-tariff slabs (₹9.00 to ₹13.00/kWh), the simple payback period for a CAPEX rooftop solar project is typically 2.5 to 3.8 years. After payback, the plant delivers virtually free green electricity for the remaining 20+ years of its design life.

Question 24

What factors affect solar project ROI?

Accepted Answer

Key determinants of ROI include: (1) Current utility base tariff and future tariff escalation rates; (2) Local solar irradiation (GHI) and specific generation yield; (3) System sizing relative to daytime baseload; (4) Quality of Tier-1 equipment minimizing degradation; and (5) Tax depreciation benefits and financing interest rates.

Question 25

What costs should be considered before investing?

Accepted Answer

A holistic financial model accounts for: Initial EPC capital cost (modules, inverters, structures, BOS, grid integration), DISCOM statutory liaisoning and meter fees, annual O&M agreements (~1% to 1.5% of CAPEX), comprehensive insurance coverage, and inverter warranty extension reserves at Year 10–12.

Question 26

How does electricity tariff affect solar savings?

Accepted Answer

Every rupee increase in utility tariff directly magnifies your solar cash savings. While utility power tariffs have historically escalated at 4% to 7% compounded annually in major industrial states, your solar levelized cost of energy (LCOE) is locked at approximately ₹2.50 to ₹3.80/kWh, providing a permanent hedge against inflation.

Question 27

How do Open Access charges affect the economics of a project?

Accepted Answer

In off-site open access projects, state regulatory charges (transmission, wheeling, and loss adjustments) comprise a significant portion of landed costs. Structuring projects under Captive or Group Captive models legally eliminates Cross-Subsidy Surcharge (CSS) and Additional Surcharge (AS), preserving maximum tariff differential and ensuring healthy 18%+ project IRRs.

Question 28

How much do solar panels cost?

Accepted Answer

The price of solar power has dropped drastically over the past decade. Total cost depends on factors such as module brand, roof type, mounting structure, system size, and engineering specifications. Use our Solar Calculator to calculate your potential savings or contact our engineering team for an itemized turnkey quotation.

Question 29

Are there government incentives for installing solar panels?

Accepted Answer

Many governments offer incentives, tax credits, or rebates to encourage the installation of solar panels. In India, central subsidies under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana provide up to ₹78,000 for residential systems, while commercial and industrial enterprises benefit from 40% accelerated depreciation (AD) and green energy open access surcharge waivers, significantly reducing upfront costs.

Question 30

What land area is needed for a 1 MW ground-mounted solar plant?

Accepted Answer

Approximately 3.5 to 4 acres of contiguous land per megawatt DC capacity depending on solar module wattage, tilt angle, and tracker pitch.

Question 31

What is Chirayu Power role in PM-KUSUM execution?

Accepted Answer

We provide end-to-end EPC services including DPR preparation, MSEDCL connectivity liaisoning, module procurement, civil piling, and substation bay commissioning.

Question 32

How is power evacuated from a multi-megawatt solar park?

Accepted Answer

Power is generated at inverter voltage, stepped up to 33 kV or 132 kV via power transformers, and evacuated through dedicated transmission lines to the nearest state utility substation.

Question 33

What tariff is paid for PM-KUSUM power in Maharashtra?

Accepted Answer

Power purchase tariffs are set via competitive DISCOM tenders or pre-notified rates, typically ranging between ₹2.90 to ₹3.15 per unit for 25-year PPAs.

Question 34

Can commercial developers participate in PM-KUSUM Component A?

Accepted Answer

Yes, developers can lease land from farmers or enter into joint venture SPVs with local landowners to bid in MSEDCL Component A tenders.

Question 35

Which projects has Chirayu Power executed under PM-KUSUM?

Accepted Answer

Chirayu Power has executed multiple ground-mounted feeder projects across Wardha, Yavatmal, Akola, and Amravati for groups like SMG Realities and Baidyanath (Surana Renewable).

Question 36

Can non-farmers invest in Component-A projects?

Accepted Answer

Yes, developers can lease land from farmers or enter joint ventures to fulfill tender allotments under the PM-KUSUM guidelines.

Question 37

How much land is needed for a 1 MW Component-A plant?

Accepted Answer

A 1 MW solar plant typically requires 4 to 5 acres of flat, contiguous shadow-free land, allowing optimal module pitch and row spacing.

Question 38

What is the evacuation voltage for Component-A plants?

Accepted Answer

Evacuation is typically handled at 11 kV, connecting to the busbar of the local 33/11 kV rural distribution substation.

Question 39

What pump HP rating is recommended for deep borewells?

Accepted Answer

5 HP to 7.5 HP AC/DC submersible solar pumps are standard for depths ranging between 200 to 400 feet, delivering 25,000 to 60,000 liters daily.

Question 40

Can a solar pump operate on cloudy monsoon days?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our VFD controllers operate at reduced frequency under diffused sunlight, delivering lower water discharge rather than shutting down entirely.

Question 41

Is government subsidy available for agricultural solar pumps in Maharashtra?

Accepted Answer

Yes, under PM-KUSUM Component B and state schemes (like Magel Tyala Saur Krishi Pump), eligible farmers can receive up to 60% capital subsidies.

Question 42

Which industries gain the most from industrial solar thermal?

Accepted Answer

Textile processing, industrial laundries, dairies, chemical manufacturing, food processing plants, and hotels with high continuous hot-water consumption.

Question 43

Can solar thermal work alongside an existing boiler?

Accepted Answer

Yes, solar thermal is engineered to preheat feed-water entering existing oil, gas, or biomass boilers, drastically reducing burner fuel burn.

Question 44

What is the efficiency difference between solar thermal and solar PV?

Accepted Answer

Solar thermal converts 60% to 75% of solar radiation directly into heat energy, whereas solar PV operates at 20% to 22% electrical conversion efficiency.

Question 45

What project structures are available for equity investors?

Accepted Answer

Chirayu Power structures equity partnerships through dedicated, ring-fenced project Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs), land-lease joint ventures, or co-development frameworks under utility-scale and PM-KUSUM tenders.

Question 46

Which solar projects are currently operational?

Accepted Answer

Chirayu Power operates its flagship 35 MW utility-scale solar park in Patur, Akola district, Maharashtra. In addition, our team has commissioned over 200 MW of ground-mounted capacity and 150 MW of rooftop installations across 10+ states.

Question 47

What is the 35 MW Patur solar park?

Accepted Answer

The Patur solar park is Chirayu Power’s proprietary operating utility-scale solar installation in Akola district. It combines operational clean generation with dedicated grid evacuation infrastructure and substation bays where expansion projects are actively commissioned.

Question 48

Can partners participate in projects under development?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Qualified institutional investors and family offices can participate in greenfield or shovel-ready solar projects advancing through site acquisition, DPR preparation, MSETCL/MSEDCL grid sanction, or statutory CEIG approvals.

Question 49

How can institutional investors request project information?

Accepted Answer

Institutional allocators can initiate discussions through our confidential investment enquiry form. Detailed Project Information Memorandums (PIM) and financial models are shared under bilateral non-disclosure agreements (NDA).

Question 50

How can I discuss a PM-KUSUM co-development opportunity?

Accepted Answer

Co-development discussions for agricultural feeder solarization under PM-KUSUM Component-A tenders can be initiated through our investor relations desk by submitting location, land title readiness, and partnership scope.

Question 51

What inverter and module tech was deployed for Kirti Solapur?

Accepted Answer

Tier-1 Mono PERC bifacial solar modules paired with centralized high-efficiency inverters and SCADA monitoring.

Question 52

How is annual yield monitored at Latur site?

Accepted Answer

Real-time IoT cloud telemetry logs generation hourly with automated inverter status alerts.

Question 53

How does PM-KUSUM benefit agricultural feeders?

Accepted Answer

It provides reliable daytime electricity to farm pumps, reducing DISCOM distribution losses.

Question 54

What voltage level is used for grid interconnection?

Accepted Answer

Interconnection at 33 kV substation busbar with dedicated vacuum circuit breakers (VCB).

Question 55

Did Simplex Chemopack combine rooftop and ground mounted arrays?

Accepted Answer

Yes, utilizing factory shed roofs alongside contiguous ground space to maximize installed capacity.

Question 56

Can new industrial off-takers acquire capacity at Patur Solar Park?

Accepted Answer

Yes, expansion bays and ongoing project execution allow new off-takers to plug into existing park infrastructure.

Question 57

What payback period was achieved for Chanvim Plastics?

Accepted Answer

Project investment was fully recovered in under 3.2 years through high self-consumption and tax depreciation benefits.

Parameter	Farmer Self-Ownership	Developer Lease Route	Joint Venture SPV
Capital Investment	100% funded by farmer (Equity + Debt)	100% funded by commercial developer	Shared equity split (typically 26:74)
Landowner Revenue	Full PPA tariff revenue (₹2.90 - ₹3.15/u)	Guaranteed annual land lease (₹30k - ₹50k/acre)	Land lease + proportional profit dividends
O&M Responsibility	Farmer contracts EPC maintenance	Developer manages all operations	Chirayu Power turnkey O&M management
Debt Financing	Bank loan under Priority Sector Lending	Corporate project debt via SIDBI / IREDA	Structured SPV project finance

PM-KUSUM Component-A:Decentralized Ground-Mounted Solar Plants

Developer funds plant; farmer earns steady annual land lease.

Dedicated 11 kV Transmission

Approved Solar Modules

Real-Time Feeder Telemetry

Frequently Asked Questions

PM-KUSUM Component-A:Decentralized Ground-Mounted Solar Plants

Feeder-Level MW Solar Plant Development

Component-A Investment & Development Routes

Developer funds plant; farmer earns steady annual land lease.

Engineering Requirements for Grid Injection

Dedicated 11 kV Transmission

Approved Solar Modules

Real-Time Feeder Telemetry

Frequently Asked Questions