Competitiveness situation of a key segment in solar photovoltaic industry in India: An exploratory study

Abstract

Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) has been the key driver of renewable energy in several countries and India has high potential. The paper attempts to understand the situation related to inverters, a critical sub segment of the balance of systems (BoS). Evaluating competitiveness of Indian players in inverter segment demands first identifying key players and thereafter, assessing availability of data. Research design covering literature review and case study research along with quantitative tools is used. This paper hints at the huge opportunities for catch-up on business and technology factors to lay sound foundations for this important low carbon emerging industry. To analyze the current status and trends in inverter segment of solar PV industry, SAP-LAP (Situation, Actors, Process-Learning, Action, and Performance) framework has been used. Further, to draw implications for key stakeholders of India’s growing solar PV industry, ‘Scenario Building’ technique has been explored.