Five years of solar minigrid service in Sandwip island of Bangladesh

Abstract

PGEL is the only utility company in the country operating as a solar mini grid service provider for five years. Its pioneering experience has become a learning platform for other private investors, financing and development agencies, in addition to the policy makers. Some of the national clean energy policy decisions for off-grid rural electrification business models are being made using the experience gained from solar mini grid service to Enam Nahar Market. It is observed that the solar PV hybrid is a viable technical option for rural electrification of rural markets; however, a discounted loan term of 15 years minimum is needed to keep such investments attractive and profitable to the private investors.