Que: Can you share with us the latest innovations or products that Gautam Solar will be showcasing at Intersolar Europe this year?

Ans: At Intersolar Europe this year, we will be showcasing our latest N-type TOPCon solar panels. These cutting-edge solar panels are designed to generate maximum energy and feature a maximum efficiency of 22.84 percent. These panels help provide 3.26 percent BOS cost savings and reduce LCOE by 1.56 percent, both criteria which are especially important for large-scale projects. These panels are manufactured using a fully automated setup and Grade A raw materials to enhance durability and performance in all types of environmental conditions. Visitors can expect to see Indian manufacturing excellence on display.

Que: With regard to the European market, what is Gautam Solar's strategy for expansion and market penetration?

Ans: Gautam Solar’s strategy for expansion into the European market includes partnerships with local distributors and installers for market penetration. One of the key aspects is tailoring our products to European Standards. In residential areas, only panels with an area less than 2m2 can be used, for which we have Mono PERC and TOPCon panels, available in wattages 400 Wp-415 Wp and 420 Wp-435 Wp respectively. Additionally, our panels are certified as per European Standards and have the CE mark. By emphasising quality and innovation, Gautam Solar aims to become a trusted solar supplier to Europe, aiding in the renewable energy growth in the region.

Que: How does Gautam Solar perceive the renewable energy scenario in Europe, particularly in light of policy changes and market dynamics?

Ans: Gautam Solar has a favourable view of the renewable energy scenario in Europe, considering the policy changes and market dynamics. According to SolarPower Europe, the EU’s solar energy capacity stood at an impressive 259.99 GW in 2023 with targets of achieving 320 GW and 600 GW by 2025 and 2030 respectively. This will get a much-needed boost from the recently adopted EU Solar Standard, which will require all new commercial and public buildings to have integrated solar installations by 2026 and also has provisions for solar in residential buildings and existing buildings that undergo renovation in the near future.

Que: With the recent advancements in solar technology, such as TOPCon modules and bifacial solar panels, how does Gautam Solar ensure that its products remain competitive and relevant in the European market?

Ans: In addition to glass to backsheet bifacial panels which are already a tremendous success in India, we are also introducing dual glass bifacial solar panels for the European market. These panels present enhanced durability for European weather conditions. Our TOPCon modules also received a great response last time around and we plan to commercially launch the latest technology this year. We have always been a customer-centric company and we plan to replicate our success in the European market by offering products that meet the highest standards of performance, efficiency, and reliability.

Que: How does Gautam Solar assess the competitive landscape in Europe compared to its presence in the Indian market? Are there any unique challenges or opportunities that the company faces in Europe?

Ans: Gautam Solar understands that the European market is different from the Indian market, which tends to present its unique set of challenges and opportunities while there are a few common points as well. Currently, India exports less than 1 percent of modules to Europe as the majority of Indian Solar Modules are exported to the US, Middle East, and Africa. Due to this, the familiarity of Indian brands in Europe is a challenge. Apart from this, China remains the majority supplier of solar panels to Europe, causing issues both for Indian companies and the local industry there. However, there has been a major push in diversifying the supply chain for solar energy in Europe and Europe has been able to cut imports from China from 55 percent in 2022 to 46 percent in 2023. This provides a significant opportunity for Indian manufacturers like Gautam Solar to make inroads into Europe.

Que: Lastly, could you provide insights into Gautam Solar's outlook for the future, considering both domestic and international market opportunities and challenges?

Ans: Gautam Solar is optimistic about the future of the solar market, both in India and abroad. We are working to expand our manufacturing capacity to 2.5 GW by the year-end to cater to the Indian solar market, which has been growing rapidly through proactive government policies and increased environmental awareness. With a target of achieving 500 GW renewable energy capacity by 2030, the Indian solar market is bound to grow exponentially, especially after the reinstatement of ALMM and schemes like PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. As for the International market, we have our focus set on US and European markets and have secured the necessary certifications for our products for these markets.