Sri Lanka, India discuss solar energy projects, battery storage and grid modernisation

Newswire reports that Sri Lankan Deputy Minister of Energy Muhammadu Ilyas Muhammadu Arkam met Indian Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Venkatesh Joshi in New Delhi, during the ninth session of the International Solar Alliance Assembly. The Sri Lankan High Commission in New Delhi said the talks aimed to deepen cooperation through the Alliance and turn existing initiatives into practical projects.

Newswire reports that subjects included connecting solar power to Sri Lanka’s electricity network, battery storage, digital grid oversight, floating solar installations and agricultural uses of solar energy. The officials also discussed bringing the Solar Technology Application Resource Centre at the University of Moratuwa into operation to build technical skills and expand practical use of solar technology. Newswire says they also addressed technology exchange, shared expertise and investment in relation to Sri Lanka’s shift to renewable energy and energy security.

Newswire reports that Arkam told the assembly Sri Lanka had scope to develop more renewable power, including floating solar at selected reservoirs and solar and wind schemes in the Northern, Eastern and Southern regions. He also mentioned wind development in Mannar that is under way and evaluations of offshore wind resources.

Newswire reports that Arkam set out plans to grow renewable energy through green hydrogen, electric mobility, vehicle charging facilities and battery storage. Newswire also says he reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to raising renewable energy capacity; the supplied report gives no further detail on that pledge.