Myanmar Solar Energy: An Ambitious Push
Myanmar is aiming to significantly boost its solar energy capacity, adding 1.8 GW to its grid by 2025. This initiative is designed to tackle the country’s persistent power shortages and lessen its dependence on natural gas. The Ministry of Electric Power has taken a concrete step towards this goal by issuing a tender for 17 solar projects, ranging in capacity from 40 MW to 200 MW. Examples of solar initiatives already underway in the country include installations like the 487 kWp system for rice mills, highlighted in reports like this one: solar rice mills myanmar: Stunning 487 kWp System Installed.
Diversifying Myanmar’s Energy Mix with Solar Energy
The government’s strategy centers on diversifying Myanmar’s energy mix, currently dominated by hydropower and natural gas. Integrating more solar power is crucial, especially given the vulnerability of hydropower generation to fluctuations in rainfall. The tender for the 17 solar projects represents a significant stride in Myanmar’s renewable energy strategy. This move is particularly important for mitigating power shortages during the dry season, when hydropower output typically declines. While challenges remain, this commitment to solar energy signifies a positive step towards a more sustainable and reliable power supply for Myanmar. Interestingly, while Myanmar is embarking on this expansion, other regions are facing setbacks, like the cancellation of the “Solar for All” program, covered here: Solar for All canceled: Shocking $7 Billion Program Cut – PVKnowhow. This highlights the complex and evolving landscape of solar energy development globally.