Access Solar marks 25 years at forefront of SL’s solar industry

• Over 150 MW installed, reinforcing commitment to green energy

By Nishel Fernando

Access Solar (Pvt.) Ltd, Sri Lanka’s foremost provider of photovoltaic (PV) solutions, recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, commemorating a quarter-century of innovation and a landmark achievement of over 150 megawatts (MW) in installed solar capacity across the nation.

Established with a mission to deliver sustainable energy cost-effectively, Access Solar has evolved into an undisputed leader in Sri Lanka’s renewable energy landscape. The company provides cutting-edge solutions for a diverse range of needs, including residential, commercial, industrial and critical rural electrification projects.

Access Solar General Manager Upul Dissanayake	Jinko Solar Director Sales Shehan Thalagala  PIX BY PRADEEP PATHRIANA

Over the past 25 years, Access Solar has consistently pushed the boundaries of solar technology in Sri Lanka, achieving numerous industry firsts. Notable milestones include the introduction of Sri Lanka’s pioneering standalone DC domestic solar PV system, commissioning of a significant 1 MW solar project at Finlay’s in 2016 and ongoing deployment of the country’s first 10 MW rooftop solar project at the Michelin warehouse, slated for completion in 2024/2025. Furthermore, its initiative to equip 5,000 religious places islandwide with 5kW systems each is adding a substantial 30 MW to the grid.

“We are immensely proud to have contributed over 150 MW to the national grid,” stated Access Solar General Manager Upul Dissanayake, speaking at the anniversary celebration in Colombo.  “While we experienced significant initial growth, the sector faced challenges due to the tariff rate issues. However, the situation is now stabilising and we are poised for continued progress.”

Access Solar’s impact extends far beyond installations, translating into tangible environmental and societal benefits. The company has also empowered communities by deploying over 10,000 home solar systems, enhancing energy access, particularly for rural and off-grid populations.

The company’s work aligns seamlessly with Sri Lanka’s ambitious national policy to achieve 70 percent renewable energy by 2030. Through initiatives like the 1,000 agro-based solar power projects (2004-2007) and Solar Photovoltaic Aided Computer Education (SPACE) programme in 2005, Access Solar has not only delivered clean energy but has also fostered energy equity and advanced digital literacy in underserved areas.

“Our foundational mission was to democratise access to energy. Today, we see the fruits of that vision, having brought clean, reliable power to thousands,” Dissanayake elaborated. 

“Projects like Michelin’s 10 MW installation and the 5,000 Religious Places initiative directly support Sri Lanka’s 2030 renewable energy targets. Solar isn’t just the future; it’s the present solution for energy security and sustainability. Strategic partnerships such as our collaboration with global leader Jinko Solar for its advanced battery energy storage systems (BESS), are crucial in achieving these goals by enhancing grid stability and renewable integration.”

Jinko Solar, a Tier-1 solar module and energy storage technology leader, provides cutting-edge BESS solutions tailored for diverse applications. Its advanced SunGiga and SunTera systems integrate robust lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery technology with intelligent energy management, thermal regulation and multi-level safety protection. These systems, monitored 24/7 via Jinko ESS’ data cloud platform, are pivotal for grid stability, energy shifting, resilient backup power and accelerating Sri Lanka’s decarbonisation.

During the event, Jinko Solar Director Sales Shehan Thalagala commended Access Solar’s leadership.

“Access Solar has demonstrated exceptional capability in deploying high-efficiency solar solutions tailored to Sri Lanka’s unique needs. Our partnership, particularly with our cutting-edge BESS, reflects a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability and energy resilience. Together, we are not just powering homes and businesses; we are empowering a greener future for Sri Lanka.”

Dissanayake added, “Customer testimonials consistently highlight the value delivered by Access Solar, with commercial clients experiencing exceptional ROI through reduced energy costs and improved operational efficiency. Looking ahead, our focus is on integrated, intelligent energy solutions that combine PV systems with smart storage. We are actively investing in R&D and expanding global partnerships to offer future-proof solutions.”

Access Solar’s ISO 9001 certification and renowned after-sales support underscore its commitment to excellence. Each project, from single-home systems to large-scale 10 MW rooftop plants, is meticulously customised to ensure maximum efficiency, durability and resilience against Sri Lanka’s diverse climatic conditions.