Bringing off-grid electrification to Myanmar

In order to enable development and economic growth in Myanmar, where 70% of the population has no reliable electricity supply, Schneider Electric is teaming up with local agribusiness firm Golden Key Company (GKC) to bring energy to the country’s rural populations.

The partners have undertaken to provide electricity to villagers in Targone, Yoe Gyi and Khalout Thaike in Myanmar’s Ayeyarwady region. The project allows solar-powered smart electrical micro grids to be installed in all three villages, keeping 800 households supplied with energy. Each household is equipped with two LED lights, a mobile charging dock or a radio.

Schneider Electric is contributing to the project by supplying equipment, providing technical expertise on several levels and developing local competencies: defining requirements, developing tailored energy solutions and training installers and local entrepreneurs. The company is also developing a solar-water pumping and rice mill solution to extend the benefit of lighting during the night to farming support during the daytime.

Through its energy division, Nay Yaung Ain, GKC is providing 20 employees responsible for installing the scheme, advising villagers on household electrification and maintaining the systems. In the medium term, the company must also support the development of local entrepreneurs to sell battery-charging stations and individual solar lighting kits.

“Thanks to this project, Schneider Electric is providing communities in remote areas of Myanmar with sustainable access to electricity, said Pascal Reigner, president of Schneider Electric Myanmar. “Problems accessing energy affect millions of habitants, impact people’s health, hamper development and compound environmental damage. These rural electrification solutions will help to improve living conditions for these communities.”

By implementing off-grid electrification solutions, the partnership between Schneider Electric and Golden Key aims to put reliable, affordable and green energy within reach of many households in Myanmar over the next few years. The project enjoys financial backing from Myanmar’s Ministry of Livestock, Fisheries and Rural Development.