GUWAHATI: In a groundbreaking stride towards sustainable energy solutions, a startup incubated by the Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati (IITG) has pioneered floating solar technology.
The start-up, Quant Solar Technologies Private Limited, has introduced a novel approach to harnessing solar energy while simultaneously conserving waterbodies.
Quant Solar’s cutting-edge technology involves the installation of solar panels on waterbodies such as dams, strategically positioned to restrict evaporation loss by up to 70%.
Highlighting the multifaceted benefits of this innovation, Pankaj Kumar, the co-founder and director of the start-up said, “Our innovative startup isn’t just about clean energy but also about conserving water by containing evaporation, saving precious land for better utility, improved power generation due to the cooling effects of water, and enhancing aquatic life, among other benefits.”
Floating solar plants, the latest advancement in solar installations, said the founder, can now become a go-to in the green-tech industry, complementing the well-established domains of rooftop solar and ground-mounted solar.
“These plants can not only contribute significantly to national solar goals but also play a crucial role in water conservation,” he added.
The innovation is expected to mark a significant leap towards environmental sustainability, considering the vast number of reservoirs and waterbodies scattered across the Northeast vis-a-vis the country.
Siddhant Agarwal, another co-founder of the start-up, said, “In steering through the landscape of clean energy, Quant Solar has also introduced a wide range of products. We firmly believe that these advancements will not only fulfill the growing energy needs but will also make substantial contributions to environmental conservation.”
The start-up has strategically aligned itself with global leaders by joining the prestigious consortium led by DNV in the Netherlands. This collaboration positions Quant Solar as a key player in shaping global standards for floating solar plants, further establishing the company’s global impact in the clean-tech sector.