What is a Solar Energy Storage System?

While solar panels are great for many reasons, they come with one limitation – they produce electricity only when the sun is out there shining. But what about the time when the sun is not shining? Our peak electricity consumption tends to happen in the evening – thereby causing a demand and supply issue.

However, it would be good to know that solar panels generate enough energy to be utilized throughout the day, even during peak demand. This brings forth the efficient and very necessary usage of solar energy storage systems.

What are they and how can they help you? Let’s take a look inside.

What is a Solar Energy Storage System?

A solar energy storage system is a battery, which is charged by connecting it to a solar energy system – such as photovoltaic (PV) – to be used later in the day. This helps the homeowner or buyer to efficiently store energy and then consume it at any time of the day or night.

Benefits of Solar Energy Storage

The surplus energy can be used for various purposes and can also help you cut costs, provide better energy grids, and on a wider level – it even reduces fossil fuel emissions. The primary benefits include –

Balancing electricity loads – As mentioned earlier, the stored energy can be spread around the day for consumption even when there is no sunlight outside. It creates an energy reservoir, which can be put to use when the energy generation is low and consumption is high.

Short-term back-up – During times when there is a disruption in the weather – such as passing clouds or routine maintenance of your solar panel – you can still have a consistent power supply with solar energy storage systems. 

Reliability – Sometimes the power grid may fail, causing an outage or disruption of electricity in your home. These solar energy storage systems provide a respite in such times. Be it a wildfire or severe weather – the energy storage creates a protective bubble by decentralizing where we get our power from. 

Types of Solar Energy Storage Systems

There are mainly three classifications for these storage devices –

AC storage system – Typically used in public grids with frequencies of 50 and 60 Hz. It separately connects to the solar grid – which contains the inverter of the solar energy system. It has a built-in inverter that converts AC voltage back to DC voltage – however, this double conversion sometimes leads to higher losses when compared to a direct DC storage system. The advantage is that they can easily be retrofitted with PV systems.  

DC storage system – These direct current storage systems are installed before the inverter – and come with the advantage of lower conversion losses because they are only converted once when released from the storage. 

PV battery storage – When you are choosing between a storage system, you can choose between lead-gel, lead-acid, and lithium-ion batteries. Lately, however, lithium-ion batteries are becoming more and more popular, as they last around 15-20 years, have very high cycle stability, have a discharge depth of 100 per cent, and cause very little electricity loss, and in contrast to lead accumulators, they emit zero gasses. 

To conclude, with solar energy storage panels, what we are looking at is an affordable and consistent energy supply, beneficial to the environment. To know more, head on to the Sterling and Wilson website. 

What is a Large-Scale Solar Power Plant?

 

When it comes to the growing popularity of the renewable energy source known as solar power, there is also an increasing variety of projects that can be created to supply this power. Large-scale solar is a frequently used term when it comes to commercial or industrial level solar power plants. However, it is surprising to notice that, given its popularity, there is no commonly accepted definition of what constitutes a large-scale solar project. 

As the name suggests, large-scale solar can broadly be defined as a plant that has the ability to generate anywhere from hundreds of kilowatts to thousands of megawatts of solar power. That being said, there is still a wide range of sizes and no definitive agreement on what can be accepted as a minimum threshold for large scale solar plants. 

Renowned, global solar EPC solutions providers like Sterling and Wilson Solar have large-scale solar (also known as utility-scale solar) projects ranging from a 7 MWp Solar Power Plant in Niger to a 1177 MWp Solar Power Plant in Abu Dhabi.

Although there is uncertainty in the size defining a large-scale solar power plant, the structure and process of electricity generation are straightforward. These solar power plants typically use solar photovoltaic (PV) panels that convert the energy from sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. This DC is then converted into alternating current (AC) through inverters to be integrated into the electricity grid.

All in all these utility-scale solar projects are a large step forward in the industry’s endeavor to build faster generation capacity than ever, while constantly improving the efficiency of renewable solar energy. 

5 Amazing Shapoorji Pallonji Projects in Oman

 Oman Shapoorji Company or OSCO was started in 1975 and as of now has become a very integral part of Oman’s growth story. Shapoorji Pallonji group has delivered some of the finest infrastructure construction in the Oman – with its diverse portfolio containing various government buildings, ministries, educational institutions, hospitals, army camps, naval bases, mosques and more.

A Look at Shapoorji Pallonji Projects in Oman

With over 6500 employees and over 45 years of successful presence in Oman, Shapoorji Pallonji has been changing the Oman landscape and infrastructure for many years to come. From the Military Technical College and Robat Stadium in Salalah to residential buildings, treatment plants and mosques, Shapoorji Pallonji has been delivering consistently and has become the most trusted partner in the Sultanate of Oman.

Let’s take a look at some of Shapoorji Pallonji’s projects in Oman below.

Wadi Kabir Township

Established in 2011, Wadi Kabir Township is a residential complex that comprises seven multi-storey buildings. Out of these seven buildings, four provide affordable housing, one consists of studio apartments, another for executive staff, and one common facility building. 

Qasr Al Alam Palace

Qasr Al Alam Palace is another one of the many international projects of Shapoorji Pallonji Oman, built in 1975. One of the finest examples of Islamic architecture, its construction involved the structure, MEP, sea wall, jetty, ladies and children’s wings, palace office and more. It is Oman’s biggest tourist attraction in Muscat and is the ceremonial palace of Sultan Qaboos.

Municipality Building

The municipality building in Muscat, Oman, established in 1992, has been the most awarded project within the country. It also won the ‘Best Architectural Building’ award from the Arab Cities Organization. 

Cabinet Building

Another one in Muscat, Oman by Shapoorji Pallonji group is the cabinet building, built in 1985. This government building was originally built for the Diwan of Royal Court Affair. The Omani 50 rial note also features the linear facade of the building. 

Al Rawaq Commercial Complex, Qurum

A six-storey A-grade commercial complex in the heart of Muscat’s commercial district, this building was built in 2011 and is complete with aluminium glazing, motorized sun louvres and much more!

A Look at the Stamp Duty Rates in Nairobi, Kenya in 2021

 

There are various transactions carried out in any particular country or state – however, out of all of those transactions, fees and rent on land contributes the most to revenue generated by the government. Other charges or taxes include railway development levy, excise duty, import duty, and catering levy, among other things.

In this article, we take a closer look at one of such charges, which is stamp duty, particularly the stamp duty rates in Nairobi, Kenya, as of 2021.

Stamp Duty Act of Kenya

Stamp duty refers to the charge or tax levied on certain transactions such as stocks, shares, and transfer of properties. Stamp duty is one of the primary sources of revenue for the Kenyan government and these rates are determined by Kenya’s Ministry of Land. It includes a physical revenue stamp that is impressed upon the relevant document in order to prove the legality of the transaction. However, in recent times, many places do not require an actual stamp for the stamp duty and other means are used for the same. 

As per the Stamp Duty Act of Kenya, whenever you purchase a property, it is mandatory to pay a fee or revenue to the government. It may help to have a lawyer during the process as that would ensure smoothness of the transaction and also uphold its integrity. 

The stamp duty needs to be paid and the document needs to be signed within 30 days of the acquisition of your purchase. Failing to pay the required amount is considered a criminal offence under Kenyan law. 

Stamp Duty Rates in Nairobi, Kenya – 2021

Stamp duty rates are based on the value of the transaction or are nominal rates on financial exchanges or instruments, as discussed below.

• Stamp duty of four per cent is levied on the transfer of land in towns.
• Stamp duty of two per cent is levied on the transfer of land in the rural areas. 
• A stamp duty of one per cent is charged when increasing the share capital of a company. 
• Stamp duty of 0.05 per cent is charged when registering debentures or mortgages for collateral securities. 
• Properties on lease are charged with a stamp duty of one per cent for the annual rents for three years. After three years, the stamp duty comes to two per cent on the yearly rent. 

There are also times when stamp duty charge is not levied, such as:

• When a company is being registered for very nominal share capital.
• When transferring shares in companies registered under the Nairobi Securities Exchange.
• During Sukuk arrangements or transactions.
• Transfer of houses under the affordable housing scheme.

Kenya Stamp Duty Forms

13 years ago, The Kenya Revenue Authority took over the collection of stamp duty within the country, they have certain guidelines on the handling of stamp duty forms. Some of these guidelines include:

• All forms are completed via the Ministry of Housing and Lands. 
• The quadruplicate is received after the relevant documents are presented. This is what gets the stamp duty. 
• The quadruplicate is handled by an agent, advocate, or duty payer. It is either taken to a National Bank or Kenya Commercial Bank for payment.

After the above-mentioned steps have been completed, this follows:

• The original copy of the payment form is retained by the individual who is carrying out the presentation.
• The quadruplicate is yellow in colour and remains in the bank. The triplicate is green in colour and is forwarded to the registrar of titles and lands. 
• The duplicate is blue in colour and is forwarded to the Commissioner of Domestic Taxes by the bank. 
• The original white copy remains with the duty payer. 

Each valuation of stamp duty is done before a collector starts endorsing a property. 

Following a proper stamp duty process, you can also call Mi Vida your new residential address. Created through a joint venture between Actis, and Shapoorji Pallonji Real Estate (SPRE), one of the largest conglomerates in India – Mi Vida was officially launched in July 2019. It offers a minimum of 3000 middle-income housing units over the course of the next five years. 

Mi Vida homes are a beautiful combination of affordable houses, modern engineering, innovative design, trusted construction, and impeccable record. For more information on Mi Vida homes, head on to their website. 

Absa Bank’s 25-year mortgage comes with special offer for Mi Vida Homes

 

Located in the Kenyan capital Nairobi, Garden City is a massive mixed-use development that brings together work, leisure and living. Within this first-of-its-kind integrated location is the Mi Vida residential project that offers 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments in Nairobi, Kenya for homebuyers. Now, these aspirational homes come with an exciting mortgage offer from Absa Bank. 

Absa Bank Kenya has introduced a 25-year mortgage facility where Mi Vida Homes customers will enjoy a discounted rate of 12.5% p.a with up to 90% financing. This is the result of a recently signed financial partnership between Absa Bank and Mi Vida Homes that creates the exciting mortgage proposition of a longer payment period with low-interest rates.

The offer targets middle-income families seeking affordable homes within Nairobi, seeking to increase mortgage uptake amongst prospective homeowners. The Absa – Mi Vida at Garden City Mall Apartment mortgage facility, therefore, offers sustainable financing models to employed and self-employed customers for a chance to own ready-to-move-in homes. 

Absa customers will also benefit from established partnerships for homeownership facilities such as property developers, furnishing partners, and home appliance partners.

“We have a team of dedicated experts that will walk the journey with customers using our financial and non-financial expertise to provide credible information, services, and solutions throughout every step of acquiring their dream home,” says Peter Mutua, Absa Bank Customer Network Director.

Mi Vida doesn’t just offer affordable houses in Nairobi, Kenya but also provides residents with exciting amenities including one acre of outdoor green space, adult and children swimming pools, a gym and fitness studio, kids’ play area, clubhouse with roof terrace, BBQ areas, a multi-purpose sports court, and 300m walking and jogging track. The residential project, launched in 2019 is currently under construction and on course to be complete by March of 2022.

How to reach the Shapoorji Pallonji Vanaha located in Bavdhan, Pune

 

A powerhouse in the real estate industry, Shapoorji Pallonji Real Estate has given homebuyers several world-class residential locations to choose from across the country. There are excellent homes at Shapoorji Pallonji projects in the major cities of Mumbai, Kolkata, Gurugram, Bengaluru, and Pune.

Shapoorji Pallonji Vanaha is one such property located in Pune, spread across 6 acres amidst the hills and lush greenery. Within these green spaces, residents can enjoy a host of modern and sustainable amenities along with thorough security. 

For homebuyers that think this residential project is the right fit for them, here’s how you can get there from the nearest public transport options and popular landmarks:

1. A major landmark in proximity to Shapoorji Pallonji Vanaha is the renowned FLAME University campus, which is around 3-4 km away. This campus path connects the residences to several other locations.

2. Chandani Chowk, a major entry and exit point to Pune City on NH4, is at a mere 6 km distance.

3. Symbiosis University is another major landmark in Pune and it is easily accessible from Vanaha at a 13 km distance.

4. Shapoorji Pallonji Vanaha can be reached from the Pune bus stand and Pune railway station within 40 minutes.

5. Ryan International School, Business Square, DSK Raanwara Commercial Complex, Neelam Market, and Chellaram are all within a 5 km radius.

6. Shapoorji Pallonji Vanaha is a dream residential address since various hospitals as well as commercial and business hubs are also within a 10 km radius.

Great connectivity and excellent amenities within lush flora and fauna – that is what the luxurious 1, 2, and 3BHK Flats in Pune at Shapoorji Pallonji Vanaha offer.

What Services Does a Solar EPC Company Provide?

 

Solar power is steadily getting its due recognition as an excellent alternative to other non-renewable sources of energy. With the increasing demand to utilize sustainable and renewable solar energy, there are a number of renowned Solar EPC companies working to make solar power simple and easily accessible for everyone.

Solar EPC stands for Engineering, Procurement and Construction of solar power plants. These companies specialize in providing end-to-end solar energy services for residential, commercial and industrial projects across the country and the world.

Let’s take a look at some of the most common services included in Solar Engineering, Procurement and Construction (Solar EPC):

Designing the solar power system

For any solar projects, the Solar EPC company will understand the needs of that specific location and energy requirements to identify a suitable structural design with the maximum power generation capacity and best use of the budget. This involves analyzing the client’s requirements, performing a site survey, monitoring weather conditions, and more. This is majorly the Engineering part of Solar EPC.

Procurement of the required equipment

This is a crucial service that needs to be handled by the best companies in order to create a solar power plant that can provide the best performance and value. Solar EPC companies are able to coordinate with the best manufacturing companies and find the right suppliers to get quality equipment as well as negotiate to get competitive pricing and comprehensive warranty terms.

Construction of the solar panels and systems

The last and most important aspect of Solar EPC comes with the mounting of the solar panels and corresponding accessories as well as installing grid connectivity based on certain requirements and the type of solar power system. At this point, a partnership can also be set up for continued monitoring and maintenance of the solar power plants based on the client’s requirements.

All in all, the main benefit of working with a Solar EPC company is that they are able to offer services for all aspects and stages of the project under one contract for the entire process. There is just one bill to pay and no need to outsource any services. The single point of contact makes it a seamless and efficient process while also making for a more streamlined long-term maintenance of the solar power system.