Generate electricity from solar energy for rural electrification

 

November 22

 

In some regions, where there are fewer rainy days, it will be possible to successfully generate electricity using solar energy. Just as the government is implementing various electricity generation projects, entrepreneurs from the private sector can also establish small-, medium-, and large-scale solar power systems. These projects will help supplement the local electricity supply and meet regional power demands.

 

It is reported that the use of solar energy systems allows businesses to fully meet their electricity needs independently, and any excess power can be sold back to the national power grid. Although the initial investment cost for installing a solar system is relatively high, the ongoing operational expenses are minimal, and the invested amount can be recovered within a few years.

 

The Department of Rural Development under the Ministry of Cooperatives and Rural Development held a ceremony in recent days at the Grand Amara Hotel in Nay Pyi Taw to mark the successful completion of the Small-Scale Solar Power Supply System and Cold Storage Facility Project in South Kyainmae Village, Taninthayi Region. The project was implemented with funding from the Mekong–Lancang Cooperation Special Fund (2023).

 

Therefore, it is undeniable that solar energy plays a vital role in rural electrification. The Department of Rural Development is implementing off-grid rural electrification projects as pre-electrification systems to help achieve the national goal of full electricity access by 2030. Up to the 2024–2025 financial year, a total of 474,077 household solar systems and 136 small-scale power supply systems have been implemented, providing electricity access to 10,511 villages and 517,534 households.

 

According to the 2024 census, 51.6 per cent of rural areas now have access to electricity. In terms of energy sources, 30.2 per cent of rural power consumption comes from renewable energy, of which 29.7 per cent is generated from solar energy. In remote areas with limited access to the national power grid, electricity is being supplied using multiple methods, including solar energy, small-scale hydropower plants, and power plants fueled by wind and diesel.

 

Currently, the government is actively working to ensure balanced development across all regions and states, and to promote equality among all ethnic groups, by providing electricity through various sectors. Efforts are being made to generate and distribute electricity through various ways and means to improve the living standards of the people and to enhance productivity and economic activities. On the other hand, people have to efficiently use electricity without waste and reduce the loss of electricity as responsible citizens in cooperation with relevant electricians.

GNLM