In a groundbreaking development for India’s renewable energy sector Goldi Solar a leading Indian photovoltaic (PV) manufacturer has launched the country’s first AI-powered solar manufacturing line in Surat, Gujarat. With a planned production capacity of 14 GW this state-of-the-art facility is set to revolutionize solar manufacturing through advanced automation, precision, and efficiency.
Key Features of the AI-Powered Facility
- High-Speed Production:
- Automated high-speed stringers can produce 10,000 solar cells per hour ensuring optimal precision and minimizing material wastage.
- Real-Time Quality Control:
- AI-powered Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) systems detect and eliminate defects at a microscopic level, ensuring superior product quality.
- Pre-Lamination Automation:
- An auto EVA laying robot places encapsulation layers reducing human intervention and inconsistencies associated with manual processes.
- Enhanced Reliability:
- AI-powered 3-Display EL and visual two-sided inspection systems improve the reliability and durability of solar modules.
- Advanced Lamination:
- A three-stage auto laminator with double-side heating (electric and oil-based) enhances panel strength and longevity.
- Efficiency Optimization:
- An auto ICB elevate-lifting system with Teflon removal optimizes efficiency, while an inline double-layer HI POT tester ensures superior insulation and electrical safety.
- Intelligent Sorting:
- An eight-bin auto sorting system classifies modules with real-time adjustments, ensuring consistent quality.
- Live Monitoring:
- A state-of-the-art Manufacturing Execution System (MES) tracks and monitors modules in real time, ensuring seamless production.
Government Support and Vision
The facility was inaugurated by Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy who praised Goldi Solar’s efforts in advancing India’s clean energy landscape.
“I toured the plant and inspected their AI-powered quality control, high-speed stringers, and robots. [I am] happy to see Indian companies leading the charge in the global clean energy landscape,” said Joshi.
Addressing India’s Solar Manufacturing Needs
The 14 GW facility will play a crucial role in supporting India’s domestic content requirements where the demand for Indian-made PV products far exceeds the current manufacturing capacity.
- Challenges: A recent report by Ember Climate highlighted issues such as inadequate local supply chains, transportation challenges and lengthy permission processes which could increase the cost of capital for PV projects.
- Opportunities: Goldi Solar’s AI-powered facility addresses these challenges by enhancing production efficiency, reducing costs, and improving product quality.
Export Potential
Ishver Dholakiya, Founder and Managing Director of Goldi Solar hinted at the facility’s export potential, stating:
“With the rise of AI, ‘Made in India’ and ‘Make in India’ are poised to thrive as exports grow and production quality improves.”
Goldi Solar’s Existing Facilities
Goldi Solar already operates two other module assembly plants in Gujarat located at Pipodara and Navsari, with a combined nameplate capacity of 3 GW. The new AI-powered facility significantly expands the company’s production capabilities, positioning it as a leader in India’s solar manufacturing sector.
AI in the Solar Industry
AI is increasingly being adopted across the solar industry to enhance various aspects of production and operations:
- Operations and Maintenance (O&M): AI improves the efficiency and reliability of solar plants.
- Transmission: AI optimizes energy transmission and grid management.
- Module Performance: AI-driven innovations enhance the performance and durability of solar modules.
Conclusion
Goldi Solar’s AI-powered manufacturing line marks a significant milestone in India’s journey toward becoming a global leader in solar manufacturing. By leveraging cutting-edge technology the company is not only addressing domestic demand but also positioning itself as a key player in the international market.
As India continues to push for renewable energy expansion, initiatives like this will play a crucial role in achieving the country’s goal of 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030
