1MW Sri Lanka Off-Grid Microgrid ProjectSri Lanka is an island nation with numerous remote islands and rural areas where traditional grid extension is challenging. Many regions rely on expensive and polluting diesel generators. To achieve energy transition, the Sri Lankan government, in collaboration with international organizations, has launched solar-plus-storage microgrid projects to provide reliable and clean electricity to off-grid communities.
Project Name: Sri Lanka Island Renewable Energy Microgrid Initiative
1. Project Objectives
Replace diesel generation, reducing energy costs
✅ Provide 24/7 stable electricity, improving quality of life
✅ ** Reduce carbon emissions, supporting national renewable energy targets (70% clean energy by 2030)2. Technical Solution
✅ Solar PV systems (50-500 kW, depending on island size)
✅ Lithium-ion battery storage (4-8 hours of backup power)
✅ Smart microgrid management system (automated power distribution)
✅ Diesel generator backup (for emergencies or peak demand)3. Case Study: Delft Island Microgrid (Northern Sri Lanka)
Coverage: Powers 1,200 residents and small businesses
Installed Capacity:
– BESS: 1000 kW
– Battery Storage: 1000 kWh
– Diesel Backup: 200 kW (emergency use only)Performance Results:
✅ 85% reduction in diesel use, cutting ~800 tons of CO₂/year
✅ 50% lower electricity costs, improving affordability
✅ ** Supports local businesses (e.g., fishing cold storage, eco-tourism)4. Business Model
✅ Public-Private Partnership (PPP)
✅ Funding from Asian Development Bank (ADB) & climate funds
✅ Pay-as-you-go tariff system for sustainable operationProject Outcomes & Scalability**
🌍 Environmental Impact: Each microgrid reduces emissions equivalent to 5,000 trees/year
💡 Economic Benefits: Payback period of 6-8 years, long-term viability
📈 Expansion Potential: Deployed in 10+ islands, with plans for 50+ off-grid communities
