State Electric Company Limited (STELCO) has stated major changes are required to promote and sustain the use of solar energy for electricity.
Speaking to PSM News, Senior Manager of STELCO Ahmed Ibrahim said several people have been expressing interest to install solar panels in their buildings, under the Green Life Initiative launched by the company. However, he noted there are several challenges to effectively implement the plan as most buildings are designed to an open terrace concept which reduces the space to install solar panels. He added a lot of customers are also hesitant to invest in the solar panels as their current electricity service is subsidised and they do not understand the benefits of investing in solar energy.
STELCO has been selling solar panels to its customers under the Green Life Initiative. As part of the initiative, the state-owned utilities company also installs panel blocks and connects the transformers and the power grid.
STELCO said all solar panels sold during the first phase of the initiative have been successfully installed and are in use. The company said the use of solar panels to produce electricity will lower the electricity bills by about 30%.
The Green Life Initiative aims to promote renewable energy resources and a more environment-friendly lifestyle. All STELCO customers are eligible to take part in the initiative.