Domestic
The solar photovoltaic (PV) market took off rapidly during the latter stages of the ESD Project. While 20,953 Solar Home Systems (SHS) were installed during the five-year ESD project, the RERED Project targets 155,000 new domestic users of SHS by 2011.
Currently there are twelve RERED-accredited companies marketing SHS in Sri Lanka.
The Project maintains global technical specifications and service standards for SHS and solar lanterns, which provide a basis for consumer education and protection. There is free market entry of suppliers provided they sell systems that meet Project specifications, and honour warranty and service requirements. The Administrative Unit (AU) at DFCC Bank monitors compliance and also investigates unresolved consumer complaints.
The most successful model has been consumer credit through micro finance providers, who work closely with solar companies under an agreement or memorandum of understanding. Commercial Banks, Licensed Specialised Banks, Micro Finance Institutions, Leasing and Finance Companies that confirm to RERED Operating Guidelines are eligible to provide finance for SHSs.
Non-domestic
In addition to introducing the use of solar PV in domestic applications, the RERED Project aims to electrify 1,500 institutions and enterprises through solar PV units and other renewable energy resources, including community based independent mini grid systems such as village hydros and biomass by 2011. Applications include small enterprises, community health clinics, schools and street lighting as well as commercial systems for water pumping and telecommunications.
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