Market for Solar Energy Solutions for Off-grid Electricity:
Scope, Experiences and Constraints in Various Countries
Alakesh Chetia
President, Social Innovations
1.3B Worldwide Lack Access to Electricity
East Asia
182 M
South Asia
493 M
Africa
587 M
Millions: IEA 2011 World Energy Outlook
Distributed, Hybrid Solar Most Viable
Outdoor Microstations in Africa
Experiences – Africa
• Communities move up the energy ladder in steps
• Regulatory framework is key
• Local skilled labor is scarce
Health Clinics & Schools in Nepal
Experiences – Nepal
• 100+ solar companies with mix of inferior or poorly
designed systems
• Customers are price sensitive
• Regulatory Framework is key
• Direct subsidy programs from government have distorted the market
• Local skilled labor is scarce
Mini-grids in India through DDG, CSR
Experiences – India DDG
• Many solar companies with mix of inferior or poorly
designed systems
• Payment terms can increase cost of capital
• Shorter project term reduces sustainability
• Differing qualifying requirements and bidding
documents by different state agencies
DDG project in Andhra Pradesh, India
DDG project in Andhra Pradesh, India
Access to Electricity Transforms Lives