Solar Rural Electrification

[kristopher]

Solar Rural Electrification
By Srinivasamohan Narayanan, Hanwha SolarOne, Shanghai, China
September 20, 2011

In solar rural electrification programs, 50-100W panels will continue to remain a viable market niche to power stand-alone, battery-module products like solar lanterns and cell-phone chargers.

While grid-parity garners most of the attention, the breakthrough of residential solar and mini-grid systems in the developing world may prove a more transformative event for the future of solar PV. Solar manufacturers should be prepared for surges in stand-alone system demand, independent of existing grid-tied demand, as the push for clean electric power increases in the developing world.

Solar is proven to deliver consistent, cost-effective power to villagers and residents in developing markets, particularly in rural settings. There are success stories everywhere. For example, with just a 10% subsidy and the use of pre-existing microfinance institutions, families in Bangladesh can currently enjoy electric light and cell phone charging via off-grid, 50W solar PV and battery systems.

The current market segmentation between off-grid solar modules and grid-tied modules is divided by module wattage. The question becomes when and how will increased demand for power and electrical services boost demand for higher wattage panels in the developing world.

In solar rural electrification programs, 50-100W panels will continue to ...

http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2011/09/solar-rural-electrification?cmpid=SolarNL-Thursday-September22-2011

[kristopher]

1. "the breakthrough of residential solar and mini-grid systems in the developing world "

"While grid-parity garners most of the attention, the breakthrough of residential solar and mini-grid systems in the developing world may prove a more transformative event for the future of solar PV. Solar manufacturers should be prepared for surges in stand-alone system demand, independent of existing grid-tied demand, as the push for clean electric power increases in the developing world.

Solar is proven to deliver consistent, cost-effective power to villagers and residents in developing markets, particularly in rural settings. There are success stories everywhere. For example, with just a 10% subsidy and the use of pre-existing microfinance institutions, families in Bangladesh can currently enjoy electric light and cell phone charging via off-grid, 50W solar PV and battery systems."

http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2011/09/solar-rural-electrification?cmpid=SolarNL-Thursday-September22-2011

[diane in sf]

2. Thanks, great article. I've spent time in India and small solar systems are cheaper

than throw away batteries and kerosene and gasoline powered generators.

[kristopher]

3. I envy you.

In recent years I've been developing a strong desire to spend some time in India and China.

The potential impact of the small rural market is very large; both in the positive benefits on people's lives and the development of the industry.

May I ask why you were there?