An innovative 675kW rooftop solar array has started generating power in India’s northwest state of Gujarat using Trina Solar modules.

The array uses power optimiser technology, allowing each solar module to perform at its fullest whether or not other modules are impaired by shade or dust. This is unlike traditional string inverter systems, where modules can only perform as well as the lowest performing module.

Foursun Solar - the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) company - worked together with Trina Solar to develop the solar system for India’s Rolex Rings Pvt. Ltd. (Rolex Rings), an automotive parts manufacturer.

Rolex Rings wanted a more reliable, cost effective and environmentally sustainable source of energy. It had never  adopted solar previously, because of its factory location in Rajkot city; an area of Gujarat known to be dusty.

Foursun Solar overcame the issue by connecting Trina Solar’s Tallmax TSM-PE14A modules to a power optimiser.

The Tallmax modules have a proven track record and are among the most popular solar modules in India, making them an extremely reliable choice for the project. The panels rate highly for performance in high-moisture and dusty environments.

The panels can also be easily cleaned and work well with power optimisers,

A total of 2,079 modules were installed across 6,500sqm of factory roof space. The panels generate energy savings of about US$110,000 a year, and carbon savings of about 474 tons a year, equivalent to the carbon footprint of 237 people in India. 

“There is high awareness among businesses in India of the commercial benefits of solar, in addition to its social and environmental value. States like Gujarat are doing very well because solar companies like us are providing good customer and technical support,” says Gaurav Mathur, Trina Solar’s India director.

The state had over 2.4GW of installed capacity as of March 2019, according to Gujarat Energy Development Agency figures.

(Photo: 675kW rooftop solar array at India’s Rolex Rings Pvt. Ltd.’s factory)