Renewable Energy Sector to Emphasize Digitalization for Growth
New Delhi: The renewable energy sector needs to prioritize digital technology adoption, data management, and advanced analytics to improve efficiency and achieve growth, experts said at the ET Energyworld SmartEnergy Summit 2024.
Industry leaders emphasized the role of digitalization, data classification, and emerging technologies like digital twins in transforming the sector. With India's renewable energy capacity rapidly expanding, digital solutions are critical for ensuring optimal performance and integration with the grid.
Tata Power Renewable Microgrid CEO Manoj Kumar Gupta stressed the importance of combining data with technology. "The integration of data, technology, and its interpretation is essential for driving innovation and efficiency across industries," he said.
Digital twin technology, powered by artificial intelligence (AI), is emerging as a critical tool for predictive diagnostics and performance optimization in the energy sector. Apraava Energy Vice President Shabbir Badra explained that digital twin is the most priority solution of the future, powered by AI to enable predictive diagnostics, virtual sensors, and advanced monitoring in the energy sector.
This technology can simulate real-world operations in a virtual environment, allowing operators to predict maintenance requirements, monitor performance, and address operational issues proactively.
Effective data management is another key focus area for the renewable energy sector. Reliance Industries Head of Engineering, Business and Project Development Deepak Saxena stressed that data classification is crucial, involving identification and organization of historical and legacy data to ensure accurate understanding and effective utilization.
Accurate weather forecasting and real-time data are also essential for improving the efficiency of renewable energy projects. ACME Vice President - Head O&M and Asset Management Ashutosh Singh stressed that accurate weather forecasting and real-time data adoption are essential to enhancing the efficiency of renewable energy projects.
Forecasting tools help optimize operations, allowing renewable energy systems to adapt to weather conditions and maximize energy output.
While digitalization is transforming renewable energy operations, there are areas that require attention for broader adoption. Azure Power Head of Asset Performance Sunil Hansu pointed out existing gaps in the sector. "Digitalization in the RE sector has scope for improvement in areas like skilled personnel, data management, affordable technology, and more," he noted.
Experts agreed that addressing these gaps is essential to fully leverage digital technologies for renewable energy systems. Investments in training skilled personnel, deploying cost-effective technology, and improving data management will drive further growth and efficiency in the sector.
By focusing on data-driven solutions, the renewable energy sector can achieve greater efficiency, sustainability, and long-term growth.