Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI)

Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI)

The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) is a government-owned enterprise under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). Established in 2011, it plays a key role in promoting renewable energy, particularly solar energy, in India. SECI is pivotal in achieving India’s ambitious renewable energy targets and fostering a transition to clean energy.

Key Details About SECI

1. Formation and Mandate

• Established: September 20, 2011.
• Objective: To implement and promote renewable energy projects, especially solar and wind, and to facilitate India’s energy transition.
• Status: Declared as a Schedule ‘A’ Central Public Sector Undertaking (CPSU) in 2020, signifying its importance and operational efficiency.

2. Role and Functions

• Project Development: Implements solar, wind, hybrid, and storage projects.
• Policy Implementation: Executes schemes and policies such as solar parks, rooftop solar, and off-grid solar initiatives under MNRE.
• Tendering and Auctions: Conducts transparent bidding processes for renewable energy projects.
• Power Trading: Manages power purchase agreements (PPAs) between renewable energy developers and distribution companies (DISCOMs).
• Capacity Building: Provides consultancy and advisory services for renewable energy integration and management.

Significance of SECI

1. Achieving Renewable Energy Targets:
   • India aims for 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, and SECI plays a central role in scaling up solar and wind energy.
2. Reducing Carbon Emissions:
   • By promoting clean energy, SECI helps reduce dependency on fossil fuels, contributing to India’s climate goals under the Paris Agreement.
3. Energy Access and Sustainability:
   • Implements decentralized solar projects to bring electricity to remote areas and reduce grid dependency.
4. Boosting Domestic Industry:
   • Encourages domestic manufacturing of solar modules and components through schemes like Production Linked Incentives (PLI).

Major Achievements

1. Capacity Addition:
   • Facilitated the installation of over 57 GW of renewable energy projects (as of 2024), including solar, wind, and hybrid capacities.
2. Solar Parks:
   • Developed solar parks across India with capacities exceeding 40 GW.
3. Rooftop Solar Initiative:
   • Promoted rooftop solar installations for residential, commercial, and industrial users.
4. International Collaboration:
   • Partnered with global agencies and governments to promote solar energy under initiatives like the International Solar Alliance (ISA).
5. Floating Solar:
   • Developed innovative projects like floating solar plants to optimize land use.