Democratizing Solar Power

For consumers seeking access to solar power, the current viable option is typically limited to rooftop solar power projects tied to the grid. Billing mechanisms such as net-metering or gross-metering are commonly employed. However, in urban areas, several limitations impede this access:

Limited Rooftop Space: Dense urban environments often lack suitable rooftops for solar panel installation, hindering residents' ability to generate clean power. Multistoried buildings face particularly limited rooftop availability.

People Living in Rented Spaces: Many urban families reside in rented accommodations, complicating ownership and installation of rooftop solar systems.

Unsuitable Rooftops: Many buildings have rooftops that are either shaded or improperly oriented for efficient solar power generation. Additionally, owners of older buildings may not commit to rooftop installations for the necessary 25-year lifespan of solar projects.

High Upfront Costs: The significant initial investment required for rooftop solar systems, coupled with structural modifications, poses a financial barrier for many individuals and families.

Decentralized Project Challenges: Setting up numerous small-scale rooftop projects presents logistical and technical hurdles, including higher maintenance costs, grid integration issues, and financing challenges. Moreover, power generation from solar plants is lost during power cuts.

Constraints from Distribution Companies: Even if suitable rooftops exist, power distribution companies may impose constraints related to technical network suitability and legal requirements. Additionally, distribution companies are often reluctant to support rooftop projects due to unpaid services like banking of power in net-metering arrangements.

Unsuitable Climatic Zones: Certain urban areas may experience higher rainfall and increased days with clouds, fog and smog, reducing solar power generation potential.

Despite growing climate change awareness and affordability within urban populations, less than 5% of urban residents, such as those in Mumbai, have the option to adopt solar power due to these constraints.

Our business model, "Democratizing Solar Power," directly addresses these challenges by democratizing access to clean energy for all grid-connected individuals. Regardless of suitable rooftop availability or rental status, our model ensures universal access to solar power. Importantly, it provides equitable returns to all stakeholders, including landowners, O & M companies and power distribution companies, fostering a win-win situation for all stakeholders. 

Democratizing Solar Power: A Win-Win Model for Urban Clean Energy Access

Our solution addresses the limitations of rooftop solar in urban areas by introducing a crowd-funded model for utility-scale solar projects. This innovative approach enables widespread participation in the clean energy revolution, overcoming obstacles such as limited rooftop space, rental status constraints, and high upfront investments.

Key Components:

Crowd-Funding Platform: We establish a secure online platform where individuals can invest small amounts in large-scale solar projects developed by trusted partners. All stakeholders, including investors, landowners, operation & maintenance (O&M) companies, and distribution companies, receive "Solar Power Credits" (SPCs) in return for their investment.

Utility-Scale Projects: We focus on developing and financing large-scale solar power projects in arid-desert areas within the same grid. This approach capitalizes on economies of scale and optimal solar conditions, leading to lower project costs and higher energy generation.

Retail Solar Power Exchange: Our user-friendly online exchange allows stakeholders to settle their power bills using SPCs and sell excess SPCs at the exchange. Additionally, consumers can purchase solar power credits to fulfill their clean energy aspirations, even if they haven't directly invested in the project.

Transparent Billing System: A transparent tracking and verification system ensures accurate accounting of solar power generation. 

Benefits for All Stakeholders:

Consumers: Gain access to clean energy without the need for rooftop installations or substantial upfront costs. Some consumers can become investors by purchasing share in the utility scale project and settle power bills using SPCs and also earn handsome return by selling surplus SPCs at the exchange and non-investors can purchase solar power through the exchange.

Project Developers: Secure funding through crowd-funding, enabling the development of larger, more efficient solar projects as the projects have zero debt liability.

Utilities: Increase solar power integration into the grid, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and helping to meet renewable energy obligations. Additionally, utilities receive a justified share of generated power for their services.

Environment: Reduced reliance on fossil fuels leads to lower greenhouse gas emissions and a cleaner environment.

Addressing Urban Challenges:

Limited Rooftop Space: Large-scale projects eliminate the need for individual rooftop installations, maximizing solar potential.

Rented Accommodation: Participation is open to anyone connected to the grid, regardless of housing status.

High Upfront Costs: Crowd-funding allows for smaller investments, democratizing access to clean energy.

Decentralized Project Challenges: Utility-scale projects offer economies of scale, efficient grid integration, and higher power generation.

Distribution Company Constraints: Distribution companies receive a justified share of generated power through SPCs, contributing to grid stability.

Unsuitable Climatic Zones: Diversifying project locations mitigates the impact of local weather conditions.

"Democratizing Solar Power" fosters a win-win situation for all stakeholders, empowering individuals, incentivizing clean energy development, and promoting a sustainable urban energy future.

Our solution, "Democratizing Solar Power," directly addresses the needs of a diverse range of stakeholders in urban environments, profoundly impacting their lives. Here's a detailed breakdown of who benefits and how:

Urban Residents:

• Everyone gains access to clean energy regardless of rooftop space, rental status, or financial limitations.
• Participate in the clean energy transition by subscribing to solar power through the Retail Solar Power Exchange.
• Potentially enjoy lower electricity costs compared to traditional fossil fuel-based power generation and earn handsome financial returns by selling surplus SPCs on the retail solar power exchange.
• Have the option to settle their power bills by purchasing solar power credits at the exchange, promoting financial flexibility.
• Embrace a sense of environmental responsibility through large-scale public participation.

Solar Project Developers:

• Secure funding through crowd-funding, enabling the development of larger, more efficient solar farms with zero debt.
• Execute solar power projects without the need for Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with utilities and Distribution companies.
• Access a wider pool of retail investors interested in clean energy projects.

Utilities and Distribution Companies:

• Benefit from increased integration of renewable energy sources into the grid, potentially reducing reliance on fossil fuels and improving grid stability.
• Comply with Renewable Power Obligations.
• Facilitate the integration of clean energy into the grid, leading to long-term cost reductions and improved grid resilience.
• Improve earnings by receiving SPCs for their services without investing in the project.
• Address higher energy demand through capacity addition of solar power projects.

Governments:

• Increase the contribution of clean energy in the energy mix, aiding in emission reduction and other environmental benefits, thus helping governments comply with emission reduction targets and enhance their global image.
• Promote self-financing projects without the need for government investment or subsidies.
• "Democratizing Solar Power" catalyzes a collective shift towards a cleaner and more sustainable future for urban centers. By empowering individuals to participate in the clean energy revolution, the solution promotes environmental consciousness, responsible energy consumption, and collaborative action for a healthier planet.

In conclusion, "Democratizing Solar Power" creates a ripple effect of positive impacts across various stakeholders. It empowers urban residents with solar energy access, fosters renewable energy development, promotes environmental sustainability, and paves the way for a more sustainable future for generations to come.

Our team at Chandak Innovations LLP is uniquely positioned to deliver "Democratizing Solar Power" due to Dr. Ajay Chandak's extensive experience and expertise in renewable energy innovation, coupled with Anurag Chandak's leadership and background in environmental engineering.

Dr. Ajay Chandak's Expertise:

• Over 30 years of experience in research, development, and commercialization of renewable energy solutions.
• Proven track record of innovation: Initiated over 25 patents most of them in renewable energy domain. He owns India’s only privately owned R & D unit dedicated to renewable energy and sustainability.
• Global recognition: Received prestigious innovation awards from Govt. of India, Govt. of Maharashtra and other prestigious organizations. 
• Extensive network: Presented papers and projects at conferences worldwide. Have been consultant to United Nations HQ New York, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy India and prestigious  institutions like Oxford University UK, IIT Bombay etc.

Anurag Chandak's Strengths:

• Engineering background: His Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering (gold medalist) and Master's in Environmental Engineering provide valuable technical expertise.
• Leadership and communication skills: As Managing Director at Chandak Innovations and a TEDx speaker, Anurag excels at leading teams and effectively communicating complex ideas.
• Sustainable development focus: Being recognized among top 100 CSR leaders showcases his commitment to environmental and social responsibility, aligning perfectly with the project's goals.

Combined Strengths:

Dr. Ajay Chandak's deep understanding of renewable energy technologies, innovation, and policy, along with Anurag Chandak's leadership, technical expertise, and focus on sustainability, create a powerful team. Their combined skills ensure the team can navigate the technical, financial, and regulatory challenges associated with implementing "Democratizing Solar Power."

Validation and Recognition:

The innovative nature of "Democratizing Solar Power" is further validated by its strong credentials:

• Presentation at TEDx: Highlighting the model's potential on a global platform.
• Shortlisted among global top 10 innovations in "Renewable Transformation Challenge 2017": Recognition by a team of international experts.
• Award-winning at Smart City Projects Competition: Demonstrating the model's applicability in urban environments.
• Publication in "Energy Future" and "Springer" journal: Recognition by respected industry publications.
• Appreciation from Industry and Legal Experts: Validating the model's feasibility and legal soundness.

This combination of a highly skilled team and a well-vetted, award-winning model positions, Chandak Innovations LLP to be the driving force behind the successful implementation of "Democratizing Solar Power."

This innovation is about a business model and not a product/technology. The innovation uses established, time tested products and technologies like 'Utility Scale Solar Power Projects' which pumps power in the grid and that flows to cities for consumption. It also utilizes other established technology of 'commodity exchange' where commodities are traded online. Our innovation has provision of setting up 'Retail Solar Power Exchange' on the same lines where solar power credits are settled for own power bills or sold against cash. There is no system components which need testing once the logistics is in place and innovation exactly addresses it. Only issue in implementation of the innovation is incorporation in the policy by the distribution companies and electricity regulatory commissions. Once it is accepted, the growth will be exponential as the innovation creates win-win situation for all stakeholders; investors, consumers, solar power companies, governments, distribution companies, the land owners etc.   

• We need our solution to pass through the expert juries of “Solve” and endorsement from such elite juries will help us to push the proposals with concerned authorities.
• We need support to overcome policy barriers and gain approval from regulatory bodies (DISCOMs and Electricity Regulatory Commissions).
• Funding will help develop a mobile app and user interface to demonstrate the Retail Solar Power Exchange.
• Solve's network can connect us with potential partners and investors to scale the solution.

"Democratizing Solar Power" breaks new ground by addressing the limitations of traditional rooftop solar in urban areas. Here's what makes our solution innovative:

Focus on Crowd-Funded Utility-Scale Projects:

• Shifting the Paradigm: We move away from individual rooftop installations towards financing large-scale solar farms in the same grid area. This overcomes limitations like unsuitable rooftops and renter restrictions.
• Crowd-Funding for Democratization: By leveraging crowd-funding platforms, we empower individuals to participate in clean energy generation. This fosters a more inclusive and accessible approach to clean energy adoption.

This is the only innovative business model that permits the consumer to take decision of adoption of solar power.

The Solar Power Credit (SPC) System along with Retail Solar Power Exchange provides the operative mechanism for the innovation.

Overall Impact:

• Sustainable Urban Development: By promoting clean energy access and fostering community participation, "Democratizing Solar Power" contributes to a more sustainable future for cities.
• Win-Win for Stakeholders: The solution benefits consumers, project developers, utilities, investors, and the environment, creating a collaborative and impactful approach.

Validation and Recognition:

The innovative nature of "Democratizing Solar Power" is evident from its strong credentials:

• Presentation at TEDx: Highlighting the model's potential on a global platform.
• Recognition in Global Competitions: Shortlisted among the top 10 innovations in the "Renewable Transformation Challenge 2017."
• Award at Smart City Projects Competition: Demonstrating the model's applicability in urban environments.
• Publication in Reputable Journals: Featured in "Energy Future" and a Springer scientific journal, receiving recognition from more than ten industry publications.
• Expert Appreciation: Endorsement by industry and legal experts validates the model's feasibility and legal soundness.

Imagine a world where everyone in the city, whether you live in an apartment building or rent your home, can access solar energy. "Democratizing Solar Power" makes this a reality by tackling the limitations of rooftop solar panels in urban areas.

Here's how it works:

• Large Solar Farms Instead of Rooftops: Instead of everyone needing panels on their roof, we invest in big solar farms within the grid territory. The solar plant can be in remote location where good solar radiation is available.

• Investing in Clean Energy Like Buying Shares: Anyone can participate by investing small amounts through a secure online platform. This is similar to buying a small piece of a company, but instead, you're investing in a clean energy project! In return, you get "Solar Power Credits" (SPCs). Solar Power Credits are used as a currency.

• Creating a Win-Win Situation for All Stakeholders: Every stakeholder gets solar power credits in return for their investment or services.

• The retail solar power exchange provides a mechanism for transactions of Solar Power Credits for settling own power bills and trading surplus.

• Empowering People: Everyone has a say in the clean energy future of their city. By investing, you're actively contributing to a more sustainable world. Cities can take pride in being called “Solar Cities” with citizens contributing to crowd-fund and generating a substantial part of the city’s energy consumption through the solar power route.

"Democratizing Solar Power" breaks down the barriers to clean energy in cities. It's a simple yet powerful idea that can make a big difference for our planet and our health.

Impact Goals:

• Provide Solar Energy Access to Everyone: Our mechanism is self-sustaining, as retail consumers become investors and generate their own solar power for consumption and trading excess power. With an effective return on investment almost double that of term deposits in banks, where common people typically invest, we aim to empower 50 million consumers within 5 years of policy acceptance in India. This business model is open for acceptance in any other country, increasing the number of beneficiaries.

• Reduce Reliance on Fossil Fuels: With 25 million consumers, the potential for saving coal will be 60 billion tons per year.

• Emission Reduction: With 25 million participants, the potential emission savings are 100,000 million tons of CO2 equivalent. (Presuming 400 kWh/consumer/month as average for urban families). While these targets may seem ambitious, the growth of solar projects with this innovative business model will be exponential. With retail investors receiving returns much higher than term deposits in banks, substantial investments will flow into these projects. Governments need not provide financial support, and distribution companies need not spend on capacity addition will propel exponential growth in such projects

"Democratizing Solar Power" is primarily an innovative business model that leverages utility-scale solar power plants, a time-tested technology. The model introduces innovations such as crowd-funding and the use of solar power as currency through 'Solar Power Credits,' as well as the establishment of an operational mechanism known as the 'Retail Solar Power Exchange.' Similar to a commodities trading platform, the technology for the exchange is established and time-tested. This innovation also extends solar power credits to all stakeholders, including landowners, O&M companies, and distribution companies, creating a win-win situation and propelling the innovation forward. With landowners offered a share in the project, we also anticipate ease in leasing the land by the owners. Similarly, distribution companies get justified compensation and all credit for complying with 'Renewable Power Obligation,' and this should propel cooperation from them.

Owners of the company, CEO and MD are working full time. 

3 full time employees. 

2 part time employees. 

Other expertise is hired/contracted as per project need.

Innovation was conceptualized in 2015 and well researched crystallized form was presented in 2017. Since then there is no major change in the business model, however the economics of the project keep changing as the cost of solar power is dropping year on year. Also the policies and regulations keep updating and we keep on updating our model accordingly. 

We are a small company with less than 10 employees. It’s more of personal relations that maintain harmony. 

"Democratizing Solar Power" focuses on creating a win-win scenario for both the urban population and the environment. Here's how our business model delivers value and generates revenue:

Value Proposition:

• Clean Energy Access for All: We empower individuals in urban areas to participate in clean energy generation, regardless of their location or rooftop suitability.
• Financial Accessibility: By enabling crowd-funded investments through a user-friendly platform, we break down financial barriers and make clean energy participation available to a wider audience.
• Transparency and Impact Tracking: Solar Power Credits (SPCs) provide a clear record of each individual's contribution to clean energy production.

Target Customers and Beneficiaries:

• Urban Residents: Our primary customer segment comprises residents of cities and urban areas. This includes individuals living in apartments, rented spaces, or buildings with limitations for rooftop solar installations.
• Environmentally Conscious Consumers: We target individuals who are interested in reducing their environmental footprint and supporting the transition to clean energy.
• Impact Investors: Our model attracts investors seeking opportunities to support sustainable development projects with a positive social and environmental impact.

Products and Services:

• Crowd-Funding Platform: We provide a secure online platform for individuals to invest in utility-scale solar power projects near their city.
• Solar Power Credits (SPCs): These digital tokens represent an individual's contribution to clean energy generation and can be tracked within the platform.
• Impact Reporting: We offer regular reports on the environmental and social impact achieved through our projects.

Revenue Generation:

• Transaction Fees: A small transaction fee is charged on each investment made through the platform. This fee covers operational costs and platform maintenance.
• Success Fees: Upon successful project completion and connection to the grid, a pre-determined performance-based fee is earned. This incentivizes project development and delivery.

Impact and Sustainability:

• Increased Clean Energy Generation: Our model fosters the development of new solar power plants, contributing to a cleaner energy mix for urban centers.
• Reduced Reliance on Fossil Fuels: By promoting clean energy adoption, we help decrease dependence on traditional fossil fuel sources and their associated environmental impact.
• Community Participation: The crowd-funding approach fosters a sense of ownership and empowers communities to be active participants in the clean energy transition.

Conclusion:

"Democratizing Solar Power" presents a sustainable business model that tackles the challenge of urban clean energy access. By providing financial accessibility, transparency, and a chance to contribute to a greener future, we create value for both our customers and the environment, ensuring a socially impactful and financially viable solution.

This innovation is a business model for financing utility scale solar projects through crowdfunding and providing access to solar power for everyone. This does not need much of the finance as primary expenses are for advocacy. Once the policies are accepted and it becomes part of regulatory network small fraction of the crowdfund will be utilized to setup retail solar power exchange. Small transaction fee for the exchange will be good enough for the organization to be profitable.