Honeywell Unveils India’s First On-Grid Solar Project with Battery Storage on Lakshadweep Islands

Honeywell Automation India Limited has launched India’s first on-grid solar project with Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) on Lakshadweep Islands. This landmark initiative reduces diesel dependence, enhances renewable energy efficiency, and supports India’s Net Zero goals.

Honeywell Automation India Limited (HAIL) has achieved a major milestone in India’s renewable energy sector with the successful delivery and commissioning of a microgrid Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) for the Solar Energy Corporation of India’s (SECI) Lakshadweep Islands project. This initiative marks India’s inaugural on-grid solar project utilizing BESS technology, a pivotal step in the country’s drive toward a sustainable energy future.

Revolutionizing Energy Management in Lakshadweep

The microgrid, installed in the remote Kavaratti islands of Lakshadweep, showcases Honeywell’s advanced BESS technology, which includes a comprehensive solution for automation, safety, and efficiency. This technology allows for effective storage and distribution of renewable energy within the microgrid, while also seamlessly integrating with the national grid supply. The system features remote operations for battery modules and grid management, enhancing energy distribution efficiency.

Honeywell’s Energy Management System (EMS), Microgrid Controller, and Power Plant Controller are integral to this project, ensuring optimal management of renewable energy resources. The implementation of this technology is expected to significantly reduce the islands' reliance on diesel-powered generators, which currently supply nearly all of Lakshadweep’s electricity.

Ashish Gaikwad, Vice President and General Manager of Honeywell Industrial Automation India, emphasized the importance of this project, stating, “We are committed to supporting India’s energy transition and self-reliance initiatives by driving constant innovation to help achieve the country’s Net Zero 2070 goal. Honeywell’s BESS technology is a fundamental enabler of this transition.”

The project, delivered to SunSource Energy Private Limited—a leading Indian solar energy company contracted by SECI—was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This is the first non-containerized BESS approved by SECI and features advanced EMS systems integrated with LEDA’s Distribution Generation Microgrid.

A Milestone in Sustainable Energy

The Lakshadweep BESS project, with a capacity of 1.7 MWp solar power and 1.4 MWh energy storage, is projected to save ₹2500 million over its lifetime, cut diesel consumption by 19.8 million liters, and offset 58,000 tonnes of carbon emissions, as reported by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. Shreedhar Singh, Additional General Manager at SECI, highlighted that this project not only addresses Lakshadweep’s energy challenges but also aligns with India’s broader green energy objectives.

Honeywell’s scope for the 1.4 MWh BESS includes a fire suppression system, EMS/Microgrid controller, and Power Plant Controller. These technologies support critical energy management functions such as capacity smoothing, peak shaving, and continuous charging and discharging, contributing to a more sustainable energy future for the Lakshadweep Islands.

A Blueprint for Future Green Energy Projects

This initiative represents a key milestone in India’s journey toward sustainable energy, offering a model for future green energy projects in remote island regions across the country.