Illuminating the future:Solar energy in India and beyond

Selfless Souls

Khushi Dholakia is the Director of Technical Support Engineering at Enphase Energy with 10+ years in renewable energy and EV sectors. Skilled in team leadership, automation, and process optimization. She has previously led global support at Enphase (2022–present), cutting costs by 30% and winning a 2024 Invention Award for a patented chatbot. At Tesla (2015–2022), managed 100+ staff, boosting support speed and quality. Started at SolarCity (2014–2015), resolving critical client issues. M.S. Computer Networks, CSU East Bay, B.E. Computer Science, ACET, India. With CCNA, CCNP certification…

Q: You are deeply involved in the solar revolution. We are excited to hear your views on the progress of solar power in India and the valuable lessons we can take from the USA.

Thank you! I’ve been deeply involved in solar for over 10 years now, and it’s been incredible to watch the transformation. I am passionate about how solar energy is improving lives and how India can learn from leaders like the USA to make even greater strides.

Q:  Let’s begin with how solar panels have evolved. How have they changed over the years, and where does India fit into that evolution?

Solar panels in the 1990s were bulky, inefficient, and expensive, like the early mobile phones. They converted only a fraction of sunlight into electricity. Fast forward to today, and the technology is vastly improved. Modern panels can harness up to 25% of sunlight efficiently, making solar more powerful and accessible. India has installed over 80 gigawatts of solar capacity by 2024, placing India among the world’s top solar nations. Still, there's a long road ahead.

Q: What’s been driving these improvements, and how does India’s progress compare?

Innovation and persistence! Scientists have developed new, highly efficient materials and streamlined manufacturing, making solar more affordable. In the US, we see widespread adoption, including panels that capture energy from both sides. In India, we’re a bit behind, mostly using standard panels and relying heavily on imports, especially from China.

Q: What challenges are slowing down India’s solar growth?

First, there’s limited investment in breakthrough technology. The US funds research through both the government and private sectors, while India’s efforts are mostly government-led. Manufacturing is another hurdle—we import a significant share of our solar equipment. Also, our grid infrastructure and energy storage systems need modernization to fully utilize solar power.

Q: How can India learn from the US solar model?

The US provides tax incentives, supports R&D, and encourages rooftop solar by allowing people to sell excess power to the grid. India could adopt similar policies. Currently, only 11 gigawatts come from rooftops here, largely due to limited financing. We also need stronger support for battery storage, like the US has.

Q: Let’s talk about decentralization. Why is rooftop solar critical for India?

Decentralized solar—think homes, schools, and villages—can be transformative in a country with over 600,000 villages. Each could harness local solar power, reduce grid dependency, and generate income for farmers. The US excels at community solar projects. India can replicate that by expanding initiatives like PM Surya Ghar and Suryashakti Kisan Yojana.

Q: How can we bridge India’s tech and manufacturing gap?

We need to incentivize domestic solar production and invest in R&D. India must produce its own high-quality materials and adopt strong standards like the US. Recycling old panels is another area where we’re just starting, but it could offer environmental and economic benefits.

Q: How is Enphase contributing, and what battery lessons can India take from the US?

Enphase focuses on smarter solar solutions. Our software detects and fixes issues automatically. We also make batteries that store energy when it’s cheap and release it when prices peak. The US is far ahead with battery integration, and India must catch up by creating affordable, long-lasting options.

Q: What about dynamic tariffs—how can they benefit India?

Dynamic tariffs allow energy prices to fluctuate based on demand. The US uses this system effectively with battery storage. India can follow suit by upgrading infrastructure and making pricing transparent. Platforms like Tesla’s Autobidder help users earn by selling stored energy. India should build similar systems.

Q: What role does the US play in shaping India’s clean energy ambitions?

India aims to achieve 500 gigawatts of green energy by 2030, with solar leading the way. The US is a blueprint for combining tech, policy, and local power systems. Their investment in hydrogen and clean fuel inspires our own initiatives. By learning from them, we can become a global solar leader.

Q: Lastly, what’s the key message you’d like Indians to remember about solar?

Solar is our gateway to a cleaner, brighter future. By learning from the USA and building our own capabilities, we can deliver reliable, affordable energy to every corner of India. It’s about giving people the power—literally and figuratively—to transform lives and protect the planet.

-Khushi Dholakia was in conversation with H N Singh

(H. N. Singh is a versatile individual who has served on the editorial team of Student Today for 12 years, served as the Associate Editor of The Lion, a magazine published by Lions International, and also held the position of Editor for The Roar, the official magazine of Lions International MD321)