Turning on the Lights with Renewable Energy: Solar PV Mini-Grid System for Lighting in Myanmar

Abstract

Myanmar targets 100% electrification by 2030 through both of grid extension and off-grid electrification under the National Electrification Plan (NEP). Despite all the policies and plans of the government, a significant population living in remote rural areas will remain far from the nation grid and unable to afford connection fees in the distant future. The Myanmar Department of Rural Development, which is the leading government agency in implementing the off-grid component of the NEP, therefore seeks assistance from advanced countries and international societies, including Taiwan. Based on the local conditions of targeted villages, the International Cooperation Development Fund proposes a tailored pilot project for rural Myanmar. The project achieved the development goals of inclusive growth and environmental protection through access to affordable and renewable energy and demonstrated that even the poor or vulnerable groups in developing countries can contribute to a net-zero society.