Honeywell Automation India Limited (HAIL) has successfully commissioned a microgrid Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) for the Solar Energy Corporation of India’s (SECI) Lakshadweep Islands project. This marks a significant step towards decarbonizing the energy supply of these remote islands.
Honeywell’s BESS technology, integrated into the microgrid of Kavaratti Island, supports SECI’s initiative to use renewable power to meet the energy needs of Lakshadweep. The BESS includes a complete end-to-end solution that controls automation, safety, and efficiency aspects, enabling remote operations for battery modules and grid management systems.
For the Lakshadweep project, Honeywell is providing its Energy Management System (EMS)/Microgrid controller, Power Plant Controller, and a range of BESS subsystems. These technologies help manage the distribution of renewable energy and ensure efficient grid operation.
“We are committed to supporting India’s energy transition and energy self-reliance initiative by driving constant technology and software innovation to participate in the country’s Net Zero 2070 goal. To get there, new power/energy sources will be required, including renewables. Honeywell’s BESS technology is one of the fundamental enablers of this transition. The integration of our BESS technology into the Lakshadweep microgrid system is a positive step forward in this journey, and we are proud to play a critical role,” said Ashish Gaikwad, VicePresident and General Manager, of Honeywell Industrial Automation India.
Honeywell delivered the BESS solution to SunSource Energy Private Limited, a leading solar company in India. The project was inaugurated by the Honorable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi.
This groundbreaking project, approved by SECI, is the first non-containerized BESS to integrate advanced EMS with LEDA’s Distribution Generation Microgrid. It aims to reduce reliance on diesel generators, lower electricity costs, and offset carbon emissions.
Santanu Guha, CEO, SunSource Energy said, “We are very happy to play a pivotal role in this landmark project that supports the energy transition efforts of the Union Territory of Lakshadweep and that aligns with our commitment to advancing sustainable projects that contribute to the country’s net-zero goals.”
The 1.7MWp Solar and 1.4MWh BESS-enabled Lakshadweep project is expected to save ₹2500 million over its lifetime, reduce diesel consumption by 19.8 million liters, and offset 58000 tonnes of carbon emissions.
“This project addresses the energy challenges of Lakshadweep and aligns seamlessly with the broader national objective of promoting green energy. We believe it will pave the way for more sustainable and resilient energy solutions for island regions across the country,” said Shreedhar Singh, Additional General Manager at SECI.
Honeywell’s BESS delivery scope includes its fire suppression system, EMS/Microgrid controller, and Power Plant Controller. The EMS is designed for capacity smoothing, peak shaving, volt VAR control, black start operation, and constant charging and discharging.
The successful commissioning of Honeywell’s BESS in Lakshadweep marks a significant milestone towards decarbonization and wider accessibility of power in India.
