Junta Leader Pushes for Domestic Solar Panel Drive

Myanmar gvt

Myanmar’s junta chief Min Aung Hlaing has urged a ramp-up in local solar panel production, calling for closer cooperation between government ministries to reduce reliance on imports and boost renewable energy across the country.

During a visit last week to a solar panel factory in the Yangon region, the military-appointed prime minister stressed the need to match the quality of foreign-made panels and develop domestic manufacturing of essential raw materials — including silicon.

“The ministry needs to strive to generate electricity through solar power,” a government statement quoted Hlaing as saying, adding that energy output must support both households and industry. He called on the Ministry of Electric Power and Ministry of Industry to collaborate on the initiative.

The factory, owned by Shwe Katha Co. Ltd., was one of several industrial sites visited by Hlaing during his inspection tour, which also included tyre and steel plants. His comments suggest the regime is trying to stimulate economic activity through energy independence, as Myanmar remains mired in conflict and sanctions following the 2021 military coup.

Myanmar’s installed solar capacity stood at 216 megawatts by the end of 2024 — a modest increase from 181 MW the year before. While growth has been slow, the junta appears keen to position solar as a strategic sector amid rising energy demand and fuel shortages.

Hlaing’s push for local solar panel manufacturing comes as the regime continues to seek greater economic self-sufficiency and reduce exposure to Western restrictions. However, critics argue that systemic instability, investor caution, and a lack of skilled labour may hamper the development of a viable solar industry in the near term.

Nonetheless, the junta’s focus on solar energy marks a rare nod to long-term infrastructure planning in a country still grappling with daily power cuts and deep political crisis.

-2025-06-30