Going solar doesn't just make ecological sense, it also makes economic sense

If winter load-shedding is going to be with us for another 12 years in makes sense to sell off your inverter and go solar.

Surendra Mathema is already doing it with his 200 watt system that lights up his house and even powers the tv. He has installed six panels on his roof at a cost of approximately Rs 300,000. In Sitapaila Mukunda Bhattarai has built himself a completely renewable house , powered by a windmill and solar panels. He recycles as much as possible in his compost unit, uses biogas for the kitchen and harvests water from his roof.

Kamal Rupakheti, of German Nepalese Help Association, has a small office and has installed two solar panels to power two computers, a fax machine and a laser printer. The two panels and a battery system cost Rs 120,000 but pay for themselves in a few years, Rupakheti says.

Solar suppliers says their panels are in such hot demand that they are flying off the shelves. Sri Raj Joshi of Lotus Energy says sales are up 20 per cent. "It is still expensive for an average urban household, but many are using it for essential lighting and one computer or tv," says Joshi.

Despite the initial cost of Rs 30,000 for one 75 watt panel, the photo-voltaic cells come with a 25 year guarantee. The batteries last at least five years if maintained properly. And, international prices for solar cells may decrease from $3.25 per watt to $2 per watt. A government tax rebate for solar systems in urban areas has helped boost sales just as a subsidy for rural solar tukis spread its use in the districts.

Piya of the Energy Sector Assistance Program (ESAP) sees great potential for solar power in Nepal. She says: "It is a great alternative until hydropower is regular. It is god-gifted, and the sun shines at least 300 days in a year."

Costs for Solar:
Rs 1000-1500 per watt
1 panel approx Rs 30,000 for 75 watts (at least 12 lights can run on 1 panel)