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Background
Solar rooftop systems are highly valued for their ability to deliver reliable and high-quality energy directly at the point of consumption. This approach minimizes transmission losses and alleviates stress on the grid. From an energy security perspective, solar rooftops decentralize power generation, thereby reducing vulnerability to disruptions in centralized grids and enhancing the resilience of energy systems. Furthermore, this shift toward a more sustainable energy mix aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly by promoting Affordable and Clean Energy (Goal 7) and contributing to Sustainable Cities and Communities (Goal 11) through the reduction of urban carbon footprints.
Problem Statement
How can we address the unpredictable generation of solar rooftop systems that leads to inconsistencies in power supply and grid instability?
The unpredictable generation of solar rooftop systems presents a significant challenge, leading to inconsistencies in power supply and negatively impacting grid stability. This unpredictability arises from various factors, including cloud cover and fluctuating weather conditions, compounded by the absence of real-time monitoring and control systems. Consequently, grid operators and consumers encounter difficulties in managing energy loads, resulting in increased operational costs and diminished efficiency of solar infrastructure. There is an urgent need for advanced predictive analytics and smart grid integration to address these issues. These solutions are essential to optimize energy generation from rooftop projects and enhance the reliability and performance of solar rooftop systems.
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Initiative Overview
Solarthon is a collaborative initiative launched by the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the Sustainable Projects Developers Association (SPDA) aimed at fostering innovation within the solar energy sector, with a particular focus on solar rooftop systems. This initiative seeks to harness creative solutions and advanced technologies to enhance the predictability and efficiency of solar rooftop installations. By doing so, Solarthon aims to facilitate more effective power planning and contribute to the overall growth and sustainability of solar energy infrastructure.
Objective
As part of this initiative, ISA is inviting startup firms and individuals to develop a cutting-edge tool for predicting solar rooftop project generation hourly and daily. Accurate predictions will optimize the utilization of solar rooftops, leading to better resource management, cost savings for consumers, and advancement toward energy goals. This tool will also assist utilities and distribution companies (Discoms) in ISA Member Countries in establishing realistic expectations for return on investment (RoI) from solar rooftop projects.
Submission Period:8 October 2024 – 5 November 2024
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Evaluation Process
ISA will establish an expert technical review committee to assess the solutions submitted by participants from around the world. The committee will select the top three tools that align with the initiative's objectives.
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Prizes
The expert committee will rank the three winners, who will receive cash prizes of USD 5,000, USD 4,000, and USD 3,000, respectively. Additionally, winners will be sponsored to attend the COP 29 event to present their solutions at the ISA Pavilion. This will serve as a proof of concept based on a verifiable and reputable technology platform that can be scaled for commercial use.
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Participation
Participants may be individuals/groups of people/ Startup firms. Women participants are highly encouraged.
Timeline of Activities
- Oct 8 – Nov 5, 2024
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Entries are solicited from Startups/Individual/Group participants
Submit a 1 pager describing the technology along with proof of concept and the tool for evaluation
- Nov 5 – 10, 2024
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Shortlisting of top 3 participants by ISA expert committee and Intimation of their invitation to COP29, Baku, Azerbaijan
- Nov 16, 2024
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Presentation of Proof of Concept by 3 Shortlisted participants and declaration of Result & Prize Distribution