Tata Power, ReNew, and Avaada Call for Visa Approvals for Chinese Solar Experts Amid Renewable Energy Push

In a bid to meet India's ambitious renewable energy goals, leading solar module manufacturers Tata Power Solar, ReNew Photovoltaic, and Avaada Electro have reached out to the government, requesting visa approvals for 36 Chinese engineers and technicians. These professionals are crucial for scaling up operations and advancing solar module manufacturing projects across the country.

Since January, the three companies have been seeking 'business visas' for these Chinese experts to aid their solar manufacturing efforts. Specifically, Tata Power Solar has applied for 20 visas, ReNew Power has requested nine, and Avaada Electro has submitted applications for seven professionals. These applications have been forwarded to the Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI), which then passed them on to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.

The companies' requests come at a time when India is striving to achieve a renewable energy capacity of 500 GW by 2030. This target is part of India's broader efforts to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and promote sustainable energy sources. However, the country heavily relies on imports of high-end equipment and technology from China, the world's largest producer and exporter of solar panels.

Tata Power is investing a substantial ₹3,000 crore in a new 4 GW solar cell and 4 GW solar module manufacturing plant in Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu. Solar cells, which convert sunlight directly into electricity, are assembled into solar modules that generate power. Similarly, ReNew is developing a solar cell manufacturing facility in Dholera, Gujarat, and Avaada is establishing a similar plant in Gautam Buddh Nagar, Uttar Pradesh.

Despite these investments, stringent restrictions on the entry of Chinese personnel into India, enforced due to COVID-19 and ongoing border tensions, have posed significant challenges. The delays in visa approvals could hinder project timelines and affect the completion of solar and wind power projects, which are critical to meeting contractual obligations and advancing India's renewable energy agenda.

The demand for Chinese expertise is driven by the cost-effectiveness and technological advancements of Chinese solar modules. The prices of these modules have dropped by more than 50%, making solar power a competitive alternative to traditional thermal power. This aligns with India's objectives of reducing dependence on imported coal and gas and maintaining stable, affordable power tariffs.

Tata Power has sought visas for professionals from its suppliers, including Yingkou Jinchen Machinery Co., Maxwell Technology PTE Ltd., and RoboTechnik Intelligent Technology Co. ReNew has requested visas for experts from LAPLACE Renewable Energy Technology Co. Ltd., while Avaada has applied for visas for professionals from Yingkou Jinchen and RoboTechnik.

The Indian renewable energy industry has urged the government to consider the visa issue from a humanitarian and technical perspective rather than a political or diplomatic one. They have requested that visas be granted on a case-by-case basis, ensuring compliance with all protocols upon arrival. Additionally, the industry has suggested exploring remote work options for Chinese experts and training Indian engineers and technicians to handle Chinese equipment and technology, thereby reducing dependence on foreign assistance.

In conclusion, the timely approval of visas for Chinese solar professionals is vital for India's renewable energy companies to meet their targets and support the nation's transition to sustainable energy sources. The collaboration between Indian and Chinese experts is essential for the successful implementation of advanced solar technologies and the achievement of India's ambitious renewable energy goals.