Concerns mount over SLSEA’s registration process as solar firms face collapse

By Nishel Fernando

Solar power industry leaders have raised serious concerns over Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority’s (SLSEA) ad-hoc registration system, which they claim has left solar customers vulnerable and exposed to significant risks. 

With hundreds of registered solar energy companies now defunct, industry players argue that the lack of proper oversight has undermined public trust in the sector.

Skura Power Solutions Pvt Ltd. CEO Haren Perera highlighted that a significant portion of the over 320 companies registered with SLSEA are no longer operational, leaving customers without essential after-sales support. 

“Many companies enter the market, complete installations, and exit, leaving clients without adequate after-sales support,” he said addressing an event recently.

Solar systems are typically long-term investments, often running for 20-25 years. However, the absence of reliable service providers has left many customers struggling to maintain their systems, leading to financial strain and eroding confidence in the industry.

Perera also pointed out that only a handful of companies have installed 1-2 MW of solar power, indicating a lack of serious players in the market.

Several industry players shared their concerns about SLSEA registering firms without proper checks, including companies without a physical office in Sri Lanka.  “Out of over 320 companies, only 20-30 firms are directly importing solar panels. The rest rely on local suppliers, raising questions about the authenticity and quality of the panels,” he added.

The absence of testing facilities in Sri Lanka to verify the quality of solar panels has further compounded the issue. Many companies claim to offer Class A grade solar panels, but Perera believes most of these claims are unsubstantiated. 

“Class A is very important, but without proper testing, anyone can label their panels as Grade A. This lack of accountability harms the industry,” he explained.

To address fears of oversupply in solar power generation, Perera suggested solutions such as battery storage instead of slowing down solar power generation.

“Authorities should explore battery storage to store excess solar energy and use it during peak hours. This would be more cost-effective than relying on coal and fossil-generated power,” he said.