Maximising Returns: Renewable energy developers increasingly opt for asset management services

Naresh Mansukhani, Chief Executive Officer, Juniper Green Energy Private Limited

In India’s dynamic renewable energy landscape, the demand for sustainable and reliable energy sources has led to significant investments in solar, wind and other renewable energy projects. How­ever, ensuring the long-term success and profitability of these ventures is a complex task. This is where asset management ser­vices come into play. Renewable energy developers are increasingly opting for asset management services to maximise returns, ensure operational efficiency and navigate the multifaceted challenges of the sector.

Optimising performance

One of the primary reasons for renewable energy developers in India turning to as­set management services is to optimise the performance of their projects. These ser­vices employ advanced monitoring and data analytics tools that provide real-time insights into the operations of solar, wind, and other renewable installations. By continuously assessing equipment performance, asset management experts can identify even subtle deviations from expected output. This early detection is in­valuable, as it enables prompt corrective actions to be taken, minimising downtime and maximising energy generation.

In a country such as India, where solar and wind energy are highly dependent on weather conditions, asset management services help developers mitigate the impact of variability. By closely monitoring weather patterns and renewable asset performance, experts can forecast energy generation more accurately. This facilitates improved grid integration and power dispatch planning, ensuring a stable energy supply to the grid.

Regulatory compliance

India’s renewable energy sector is subject to a complex web of regulations, policies, and incentives. Staying compliant with the­se ever-evolving rules can be a daunting task for developers. Asset management services play a crucial role in ensuring regulatory compliance, enabling experts to stay up to date with the latest regulations and assist developers in navigating the compliance landscape seamlessly.

For instance, renewable energy projects in India often have to meet specific renewable purchase obligations. Asset management services can monitor energy generation and help developers demonstrate compliance with these obligations, avoiding potential penalties and legal issues.

Further, environmental and safety regulations are becoming increasingly stringent. Asset management experts ensure that renewable projects adhere to environme­ntal norms and safety standards, reducing the risk of environmental violations or accidents.

Cost efficiency

Asset management services contribute to cost efficiency in renewable energy projects. By leveraging data analytics, these services can optimise maintenance schedules, reducing the frequency and cost of maintenance activities. Predictive maintenance, in particular, enables the replacement of components before they fail, minimising downtime and repair expenses.

Furthermore, these services help identify areas where energy production can be increased or energy losses minimised. This information can inform strategic decisions regarding equipment upgrades or operational adjustments, ultimately improving the financial performance of renewable assets.

Risk mitigation

The renewable energy sector is not im­mune to risks, which can stem from eq­uip­ment failures, extreme weather even­ts or market fluctuations. Asset management services serve as a risk mitigation strategy for developers. By closely monitoring equipment health and performance, they can anticipate potential issues and take preventive measures, reducing the likelihood of unexpected and costly failures.

These experts are often experienced in contract management and dispute resolution. In cases where project stakeholders, such as equipment suppliers or contractors, do not meet their obligations, asset management personnel can step in to address disputes and ensure that projects remain on track.

Expertise and focus

Outsourcing asset management allows renewable energy developers to focus on their core competencies. Developers can focus on project development, financing and strategic decision-making, while as­set management experts handle the technical aspects of operations and maintenance (O&M). This division of labour en­hances overall project efficiency and risk management.

In a sector as rapidly evolving as renewa­ble energy, having access to a team of experts can be a game changer. These experts bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, helping developers navigate the intricacies of renewable energy technologies, market dynamics, and emerging trends.

Long-term sustainability

Renewable energy projects are often designed to have long operational lifespans, of several decades. To en­sure the long-term sustainability of these projects, asset management services are indispensable. They help developers im­plement strategies for asset longevity, ensuring that installations remain productive and profitable well into the future.

These services also play a vital role in asset retirement planning. When renewable energy components reach the end of their operational life, proper decommissioning and disposal are crucial to minimise environmental impact and ensure regulatory compliance. Experts can guide developers through this process, ensuring a smooth transition and responsible asset retirement.

Conclusion

In India’s burgeoning renewable energy sector, asset management services have become a cornerstone of project success. They offer comprehensive solutions to cha­llenges faced by renewable energy developers, from optimising performance and ensuring regulatory compliance to mitigating risks and enhancing cost efficiency. By outsourcing the technical aspects of O&M to asset management experts, developers can focus on their core objectives, ultima­tely contributing to the sustainable growth of renewable energy in India.