Spotlight on Unni Krishnan, CEO at HCT Technical Services LLC
As an experienced international business professional with over 35 years of expertise in the Middle East. I have successfully managed business at senior levels, focusing on strategic planning, startups, diversification, and expansion into niche segments like sustainability and green energy solutions through EPC.
Joined HCC in 1997and played a pivotal role in transforming the company into a recognized leader in the industry. Created HCT as a wholly owned subsidiary of HCC. Have molded and nurtured an enviable team of professionals for further growth and continuous success of the group throughout GCC and beyond.
My strategic planning skills have enabled the company to identify and capitalize on new business opportunities in diverse markets. I have also been committed to sustainability and green energy solutions, integrating them into the company’s operations and driving environmentally responsible practices.
Please describe your role at HCT Technical as well as your industry expertise.
As the CEO, the primary responsibility entails providing visionary leadership to the organization and making critical decisions that impact the company's overall performance. This includes setting the strategic direction and goals of the company, working closely with relevant managers to ensure goal attainment, and maintaining the company's profitability and competitiveness in the industry.
The focus is on creating a positive company culture that fosters teamwork and collaboration among employees. This involves promoting effective communication and coordination between the technical, commercial, and operations teams, and ensuring that all employees work towards a common objective in a professional manner.
Furthermore, there is a commitment to upholding full compliance with government regulations and ISO Quality Management Systems. This includes ensuring that the company's operations and processes adhere to all relevant laws and regulations and maintaining high standards of quality in all aspects of business operations.
Striving to lead by example, inspire and motivate employees, and create a work environment that encourages innovation, creativity, and continuous improvement. By providing effective leadership and maintaining a strong focus on company strategy, culture, and compliance, the aim is to drive the success and growth of HCT in the solar EPC industry.
How did your story in renewables begin, and in your opinion, how much has it changed since then, if at all?
Our foray into renewables, particularly solar, began in 2011 with the supply and installation of Solar Street lights for a Government Entity. This marked the beginning of our journey in the solar energy sector in the UAE. With the introduction of the Shams Dubai Solar Program by DEWA in 2015 and our growing expertise and ambition, we strategically decided in 2016 to focus on providing complete on-grid solar solutions to customers in the UAE.
Since then, we have witnessed the implementation of various policies by the government and policy makers to promote solar energy, including net metering and feed-in tariffs. The UAE has set an ambitious goal of generating 50% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2050, signaling a strong commitment to sustainable energy.
Overall, the UAE has made remarkable progress in renewable energy and is poised to play a leading role in the development of solar energy in the MENA region. We are proud to be a part of this journey and remain committed to driving the adoption of solar energy solutions in the UAE and beyond.
Can you tell us about your most advanced sector (solution or service) and what sets you apart from other competitors?
HCT is widely recognized in the industry as a Solar EPC company with a stellar track record of successfully completing over 40+ solar projects within the last 4 years. The company's team of highly experienced professionals sets them apart from their competitors, ensuring top-notch quality in installation and construction, which significantly impacts the performance and longevity of the solar systems.
HCT goes above and beyond by providing exceptional customer service and support, including comprehensive after-sales service and operations & maintenance (O&M) assistance. This commitment to outstanding customer care has earned them repeated business from prestigious clients and government entities in the UAE, where they have established a strong clientele.
With a keen focus on delivering superior quality, reliable performance, and excellent customer satisfaction, HCT continues to be a trusted and preferred choice for solar EPC solutions. Our proven track record, along with the team of skilled professionals, positions HCT as a leading player in the solar energy industry in the region.
What are your expectations for the MENA region in terms of growth and new opportunities for HCT Technical?
The MENA region is expected to experience significant growth and new opportunities in terms of solar in coming years, driven by a combination of factors, including cost reductions, new policies and regulations, and innovation and technology.
The MENA region is expected to add significant solar capacity in the coming years. According to IRENA, the region would install up to 251 GW of solar capacity by 2050, which would represent a significant increase.
Many countries in the region are implementing new policies and regulations to promote renewable energy including solar.
How does HCT Technical view the role of innovative solutions in increasing solar adoption in the MENA region?
Energy storage systems and hybrid solutions, such as solar-diesel systems, are innovative ways to increase the adoption of solar energy in the region.
Energy storage systems, such as batteries, can store excess solar energy and release it when needed, ensuring a stable power supply even during periods of low solar irradiance or when the grid supply is unavailable. This can enhance the reliability and resilience of solar energy systems, making them suitable for critical infrastructure, commercial and industrial facilities, and residential buildings. Energy storage systems can also optimize energy usage, reducing peak demand charges and improving overall energy management.
Similarly, hybrid solutions, such as solar-diesel systems, combine solar energy with diesel generators to provide reliable power supply in areas with limited solar irradiance or no grid supply. These solutions reduce dependence on fossil fuels, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and offer cost-effective and sustainable energy solutions for remote or off-grid locations.
By integrating energy storage systems and hybrid solutions into solar energy projects, HCT Technical Services can provide cutting-edge solutions that address the challenges of intermittent solar availability and enhance the reliability and stability of power supply. This can accelerate the adoption of solar energy in the region, promoting sustainable practices and contributing to the growth of renewable energy in the UAE and beyond.
ABOUT HCT TECHNICAL SERVICES
HCT Technical Services, a subsidiary of HCC Group UAE, established in 1988. HCT is a leading EPC company with a strong focus on green energy solutions, particularly in solar energy.
HCT's expertise in solar solutions and ESCO (Energy Service Company) solutions aligns with the introduction of solar net metering in Dubai, providing customers in the UAE with sustainable energy solutions. Being an approved Solar PV contractor under DEWA's Shams Dubai smart city initiative further showcases HCT's commitment to green energy and sustainability.
With a portfolio of 40+ prestigious projects in Dubai, Sharjah, and Northern Emirates, totaling over 30+ MW in capacity, HCT has a proven track record of successful project completions. Most of these projects are for government entities and prestigious buildings highlight the company's reputation for delivering high-quality solutions for important clients.
In addition to solar solutions, HCT also undertakes LED retrofit solutions, showcasing our comprehensive expertise in energy-efficient solutions.