PHOTOVOLTAIC TECHNOLOGY SUCCESS FLASHES IN RURAL COMMUNITY OF BANGLADESH: A GRAMEEN SHAKTI VENTURE

摘要

PV technology is emerging as an effective alternative to grid supplied electricity in many applications, among which rural electrification is the most popular. Grameen Shakti (GS), a pioneer in Renewable Energy Technology Company was established in 1996 to promote and popularize PV technology in rural and remote places of Bangladesh. GS also participates in regional research and dissemination program to develop PV applications. Lack of awareness about the technology and high costs were identified as the major barriers for fast expansion of PV systems. GS has introduced soft credit scheme to purchase PV systems, which is convenience to the rural people. The application of solar home systems and its usefulness for income generating activities were demonstrated. Training and awareness creation activities were undertaken by GS in order to overcome these barriers for promoting PV technology countrywide.