YANGON—Growing electricity costs and oil prices are driving a significant shift towards solar energy in Myanmar, with many residents and businesses adopting solar technology as a reliable and sustainable energy source.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Thi Thi Soe, deputy general manager of Sandisolar, reported that the instability of electricity supply and escalating electricity bills have been key factors motivating the switch to solar. Sandisolar, a Myanmar-based Chinese new energy company, has seen a substantial increase in solar project completions, from 36 in 2022 to 115 in 2023, and plans for over 200 projects in 2024.

Local residents Thida Tun and Chaik Sai have opted for solar energy to counter frequent power disruptions and reduce dependency on traditional electricity sources. Tun, 66, advocates for the community-wide adoption of solar power to harness natural sunlight, while Sai, 46, prefers Chinese-made solar panels for their reliability and ability to prevent damage to electrical appliances caused by power fluctuations.

The proliferation of solar technology in Myanmar is not limited to individual households but extends to urban and rural businesses and factories. In rural areas, solar installations are increasingly used in lighting projects and by employing small solar devices in regions still lacking reliable electricity access.

Solar energy not only offers a cost-effective alternative to fuel-powered generators but also contributes to a quieter, more environmentally friendly atmosphere. The expansion of these projects is supported by international cooperation programs such as the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) and China-Myanmar cooperation programs, enhancing the capabilities and infrastructure needed to sustain solar energy growth across the country.