Solar energy is a clean and inexhaustible source of renewable energy provided by the Earth to all humankind equally. If this energy can be harnessed effectively, it could generate and supply the electricity the country needs in the shortest possible time.
In Myanmar, electricity generation mainly relies on hydropower and natural gas. Hydropower generation faces challenges due to climate change-related impacts as well as disruptions and damage caused by terrorist groups. In addition, rising global energy prices have become another difficulty in ensuring the country’s energy security. Therefore, conditions are increasingly being created to promote the use of solar energy, also known as solar power generation.
Solar energy is a clean energy source because it is derived from sunlight. While fossil fuels such as crude oil are limited resources and may become increasingly scarce, solar power can be easily installed and used by individual households. The government is encouraging the use of solar systems through two approaches: integrating solar power into the national power grid at an appropriate proportion, and enabling individuals or groups to install and use Solar Home Systems according to their own arrangements.
Responsible authorities have already arranged for the installation of solar systems in areas where the national power grid is not accessible. As a clean and sustainable energy source that provides long-term benefits, solar power should be widely adopted. Myanmar’s energy mix currently relies mainly on natural gas, which accounts for about 56 per cent, and hydropower, which accounts for around 40 per cent. Electricity generated from solar energy still represents only about 3.58 per cent of the country’s total power generation.
Under the Ministry of Electric Power and Energy, there are 32 hydropower plants, 24 natural gas-fired power plants, two coal-fired power plants, and 12 solar power plants, with a total installed capacity of 6,725 megawatts. If operated at full capacity, the facilities could generate approximately 3,400 to 4,000 megawatts of electricity.
Myanmar’s central dry zone, encompassing Magway, Mandalay and Sagaing regions, receives abundant sunshine throughout the year, making it well-suited for large-scale solar power generation. Solar power projects require relatively shorter construction periods, and Myanmar possesses abundant solar energy resources. Therefore, solar energy should account for a much larger share of the country’s energy mix than it currently does. The use of solar power not only helps meet electricity demand but also contributes to environmental conservation by reducing fuel consumption and lowering carbon emissions.