In Short : UltraTech Cement is embracing floating solar panels to boost its renewable energy capacity. This adoption of floating solar technology underscores the company’s commitment to sustainable practices, utilizing innovative solutions to harness solar power and reduce its carbon footprint.
In Detail : UltraTech Cement’s ambitious aims and strategic measures to convert to renewable energy demonstrate its industry leadership in environmental stewardship.
UltraTech Cement’s Awarpur Cement Works has taken a significant step towards renewable energy utilisation by deploying floating solar photovoltaic panels (FSPVs) across two water reservoirs, covering an area of 3600 sq m within its premises.
The solar project boasts a DC capacity of 4.096 MWp (3.30 MW AC) and comprises approximately 7600 solar panels. Projections indicate that the initiative could yield 6,173 MWh of solar energy annually, leading to a reduction of around 6000 MT of CO2 emissions per year, equivalent to the environmental benefits provided by 2.7 lakh mature trees.
Implemented in the Captive mode, UltraTech plans to utilise 100 per cent of the power generated from this project. The water reservoirs, initially developed as part of the unit’s water harvesting initiatives, hold a total capacity of 1,10,000 cubic metres of water. By installing solar panels on these reservoirs, UltraTech aims not only to generate energy but also to curtail water loss due to evaporation by up to 70 per cent.
The project prioritises minimal disruption to local ecosystems, contributing to water quality preservation and temperature regulation through shading. Additionally, the use of FSPVs aids in controlling the proliferation of algae, thereby mitigating the occurrence of algal blooms. This innovative approach optimises land utilisation, addressing the significant challenge of land scarcity for conventional solar panel installations.
UltraTech Cement’s commitment to the energy transition is evident in its goal to source 100 per cent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2050 as part of its RE100 pledge. As a member of EP100, the company aims to double its energy productivity. By 2030, UltraTech intends to elevate the share of green energy in its total energy mix to 85 per cent, with an interim target of reaching 60 per cent by FY26. To achieve these milestones, UltraTech has implemented various strategies, including the adoption of renewable energy sources and the expansion of Waste Heat Recovery Systems (WHRS).
Currently, UltraTech boasts 719 MW of green energy capacity, encompassing 264 MW of WHRS installed capacity and 455 MW of contracted renewable energy, accounting for 24 per cent of its current energy requirements as of Q3 FY24.
