Opportunities and challenges of solar energy application in energy sector of Sri Lanka

Although Sri Lanka's current carbon footprint is much less compared to other developing countries, the country's existing and planned economic developments have raised the demand for power, resulting an increased GHG (Greenhouse gas) emission. GHG in Sri Lanka is emitted mostly by the burning of fossil fuels for energy generation including transport. However, the most effective way of reducing GHG emissions from the energy sector is to use renewable energy sources. Solar is in the top list of renewable resources that has much potential to use to meet the demand for electricity generation in the country. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the current status of solar power generation and opportunities, barriers for implementing the programs of solar energy in Sri Lanka. Literature reviews mainly used as the primary tool for this study. Sri Lankan government had set the targets for adding 200 MW to the national grid by 2020, and to increase up to 1000 MW by 2025 of solar electricity. To achieve these targets the prevailing barriers have to be considered.