Strategies to enhance the applicability of grid power solar net metering concept in Sri Lanka

Abstract

The whole world is utilizing its all-non-renewable energy sources to power their social, economic, and cultural needs. Hence, the significance of renewable energy is considered all around the world at this moment. Especially compared to other renewable energy sources, solar energy shows more reliable and available in the whole world. As a result, the cleanest solar energy makes a huge contribution to the global energy balance. To power the grid with solar energy all countries around the world expanding their technologies related to solar power generation. Accordingly, the net metering concept becomes a platform to inject and strengthen the grid with solar energy. However, some conventional methods such as NCRE power generation facility, DC-AC inverter, and islanding protection system are used to expand the grid-connected solar net metering in Sri Lanka. Therefore, it is required to improve the newly applicable solar net metering expansion strategies. Hence, this study aims to propose suitable strategies for the increment in the application of grid power solar net metering in Sri Lanka. A qualitative research approach was selected to conduct this study. Initially, a literature review was completed. Then, data is collected through semi-structured expert interviews with 4 experts, who have experience and engagement in the solar industry. The collected data were analyzed through manual content analysis. Findings revealed the key driving forces and the barriers to expanding the grid power solar net metering in Sri Lanka. With regards to the identified barriers, the newly applicable strategies have shown a significant amount of importance in Sri Lanka to expand the grid power net metering concept.