The Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) is a regulatory framework administered by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) that determines which solar photovoltaic (PV) modules, cells, and wind turbines qualify for use in government-backed and regulated projects across India. It assures that panels installed on rooftops and across utility-scale fields match…
India is expanding solar deployment in agriculture through programmes such as the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM KUSUM) and the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. These schemes support solar irrigation pumps, decentralised solar power plants, and residential rooftop installations that can reduce electricity costs for rural households. Speaking at the…
Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL) recently announced plans to install India’s first eco-friendly 145 kV green circuit breaker at its Imphal substation. This marks a key step in moving away from sulphur hexafluoride (SF₆), a gas long used in high-voltage equipment but also one of the most potent greenhouse gases, with a global…
Flexible AC transmission system (FACTS) devices use power electronics to dynamically control voltage, impedance and phase angle in AC networks. They improve stability, boost transfer capacity, and enhance power quality in heavily loaded grids and those with high renewable penetration. Traditional transmission systems are rigid and slow to respond. FACTS devices solve this by adding…
 Solar panels are common in off-grid setups, but they do not work well in cloudy, shaded, or seasonal conditions. If your land has a nearby stream or river, small-scale hydro power may be a reliable alternative. This guide explains how to assess your site and choose the right hydro system. Hydro power can offer…
 In nuclear power generation, not all shutdowns are emergencies. Many are planned well in advance for regular refuelling, equipment maintenance, or regulatory inspections. These scheduled outages are an essential part of operating a safe and efficient nuclear power plant. But how long do they take? And how do the timelines compare across global reactors…
 At the core of every hydropower plant is the turbine, the mechanical heart of the system. Hydropower works by converting the gravitational potential energy of stored water into kinetic energy as it flows downward. This movement drives a turbine, which in turn powers a generator to produce electricity. This article explores the different types…
While often seen as static, utilitarian structures, transmission towers embody intricate engineering designs tailored to handle multiple variables. These include the voltage level, conductor weight, environmental challenges, and the growing complexity of modern power grids. Over time, transmission tower designs have evolved with advancements in materials science, load optimization, and the grid’s shifting needs. Key…
Reactors help in controlling power flow, enhancing voltage stability, and minimizing the risk of faults within increasingly complex power systems. Reactive power, unlike active power, does not transfer energy from source to load but is necessary for voltage control and maintaining the stability of alternating current (AC) systems. Reactors, by providing inductive reactance, absorb excess…
At the heart of a wind turbine’s efficiency lies its design. The aerodynamic performance of the blades directly impacts power output. Modern blade designs incorporate advanced materials like carbon fibre-reinforced composites, enhancing durability while reducing weight. These materials improve load distribution across the rotor, allowing for larger blades and thus, greater energy capture. The challenge…