AHK Sri Lanka facilitates first Sri Lankan presence at EU’s largest solar trade fair

The Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka (AHK Sri Lanka) achieved a significant milestone by organising the first-ever Sri Lankan delegation to participate in Intersolar Europe, the EU’s largest trade fair for the solar and renewable energy industry. 

This delegation, comprising 10 representatives from Sri Lankan companies, aimed to bolster Sri Lanka’s renewable energy capabilities by fostering international collaboration with German and other partners.

Held from 19-21 June in Munich, Germany, Intersolar Europe provided an unparalleled platform for the Sri Lankan delegation to engage with key stakeholders and decision-makers. AHK Sri Lanka facilitated bilateral discussions with prominent German entities, including the German Solar Industry Association, the German Energy Storage Association, the German E-mobility Association, Baden-Württemberg International, and the German Energy Solutions Initiative of the Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK).

Sri Lankan Ambassador to Germany Varuni Muthukumarana joined the discussions, representing the Sri Lankan Government, and gave an overview of Sri Lanka’s commitment to climate action goals, expanding renewable energy projects, and recent developments in policy frameworks and energy connectivity projects with India. She observed that the insights and connections gained at the trade fair will be very useful to expand Sri Lanka’s renewable energy initiatives as well as foster greater collaboration between Sri Lanka and Germany.

The primary objectives of participating in Intersolar Europe were to facilitate technology transfer and know-how, increase business partnerships and investments, and strengthen the bilateral economic relationship between Germany and Sri Lanka. 

Additionally, the delegation aimed to connect key multipliers and associations from both countries to exchange best practices and awareness programs, thereby supporting Sri Lanka’s comprehensive renewable energy plans.

AHK Sri Lanka Corporate Affairs and Export Promotions Head Malintha Gajanayake stated: “This was an excellent start to a strong relationship with renowned world market leaders in the renewable energy sector. We hope to maintain momentum through webinars, virtual workshops, and an incoming German delegation to Sri Lanka. Our objective is not only to continue discussions but also to build sustainable economic relationships between Sri Lanka and Germany.”

Several significant outcomes emerged from the delegation’s participation. The German Solar Industry Association expressed interest in conducting a feasibility study on Sri Lanka’s energy and power sectors and agreed to start this collaboration with a virtual fact-finding mission involving their member companies. The German Energy Storage Association shared experiences from projects in Asia, Africa, and the EU, discussing the challenges and benefits of storage facilities in these regions.

DIMO PLC Chairman Ranjith Pandithage, who participated in the trade fair, commented: “I would like to thank AHK Sri Lanka for the excellent organisation of the delegation. The meetings were well-planned and very beneficial for us. The involvement of the Sri Lankan Ambassador to Germany gave additional importance. We took back home very important learnings and future business opportunities.”

Another participant, Eco Solar Rays Ltd. Director N.S. Sanjeevan said: “During the event, representatives from our company had the opportunity to network with peers, attend informative sessions, and explore the latest solar products and solutions. The excellent arrangement by AHK Sri Lanka provided a conducive environment for meaningful interactions and collaborations.”

Moreover, in a significant move to highlight Sri Lanka’s efforts in renewable energy, DIMO Energy Senior Manager Kelum Kumara showcased Sri Lanka’s current status and opportunities in off-grid projects at the Off-Grid Workshop during Intersolar 2024. His presentation opened doors for enhanced investment opportunities in Sri Lanka’s renewable energy sector.