Estimation of LCOE and LCCA for a Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Project in India's Paper Industry: A Comparison between Rooftop Solar and Steam Expander for Power Generation

The Indian paper industry is a major consumer of energy, facing challenges from rising costs and environmental concerns. This paper evaluates the potential for integrating renewable energy and energy efficiency solutions to address these challenges. Specifically, the study compares the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) and Levelized Cost of Carbon Abatement (LCCA) for rooftop solar PV systems and steam expanders at M/s. Sattur Venkateswara Paper Mill. By analyzing capital investments, operational costs, energy output, and emissions reductions, the paper highlights the economic and environmental benefits of each technology. The findings demonstrate that while steam expanders offer better LCOE and faster payback, rooftop solar PV remains a viable alternative for carbon reduction, emphasizing the need for context-specific energy solutions in the industrial sector.