Nikini Solar: Leading the charge in Sri Lanka’s solar revolution

With over 35 years of industrial experience in Sri Lanka, Nikini has firmly established itself as a market-leading multi-disciplinary engineering firm. Specialising in a wide range of industrial automation and renewable solutions, Nikini Solar has emerged as a prominent player in Solar PV design and installations. Its extensive expertise and pioneering spirit have significantly contributed to advancing solar energy in Sri Lanka.

Pioneering achievements in solar energy

Nikini Solar’s journey is marked by a series of pioneering achievements that have set benchmarks in Sri Lanka’s solar energy sector:

2008: Nikini Solar became the first in Sri Lanka to enter into a commercial net-metering agreement for their Solar PV System at the Colombo Headquarters. This groundbreaking move paved the way for the country to adopt grid-connected solar energy.

2009: The company installed the first-ever commercial Solar PV system in Sri Lanka, demonstrating the viability and benefits of solar power for businesses.

2015: Nikini Solar achieved another milestone by installing the first-ever 1MW rooftop Solar PV system in Sri Lanka. This project showcased the potential of large-scale solar installations in urban settings.

2016: They completed the tallest solar installation in Sri Lanka on a curved structure, highlighting their ability to tackle complex engineering challenges.

2016: Launching the Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) concept further underscored Nikini Solar’s commitment to innovation and sustainable building practices.

2021: Nikini Solar connected its own 1MW ground-mounted system to the national grid, reinforcing its leadership in the renewable energy sector.

From 2008 onward: Over 12MW of solar capacity has been installed across Sri Lanka, a testament to Nikini Solar’s extensive reach and impact.

Commitment to quality and innovation

Nikini Solar’s approach to installations is characterised by meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to quality. The company leverages the expertise of its in-house mechanical, electrical, and control divisions to ensure innovative designs, robust structural layouts, and secure installations that adhere to international safety and operational standards.

High-quality components and engineering excellence

Nikini Solar’s commitment to quality is evident in its selection of components and engineering practices:

Solar panels: The company exclusively utilises Tier 1 solar panel manufacturers (JA Solar, Trina), selected based on stringent operational safety standards and a proven track record. This ensures the longevity and efficiency of the solar installations.

Inverters: Recognising that inverters are the most stressed component in a PV system, Nikini Solar opts for reliable SMA and Huawei inverters. These inverters have a proven performance and durability track record, ensuring consistent energy conversion and system stability.

Mounting structures: Nikini Solar manufactures its mounting structures, which are designed in-house to enhance strength while reducing weight and using less corrosive materials. To mount the structure to the roof, use SS roof nails. This custom approach ensures that the structures are both robust and durable.

Walkways: To facilitate easy access for installation and maintenance, Nikini Solar installs walkways on roofs. This ensures safe and efficient maintenance and prevents damage to the roof without imposing unnecessary loading.

Surge protection: Understanding the critical importance of protection for long-lasting solar PV systems, Nikini Solar installs European-standard surge protection systems. These systems comply with international standards, ensuring the safety and durability of the installations.

Earthing systems: Comprehensive earthing is provided for the entire PV system, including panels, structures and inverters. Competitors often overlook this crucial safety feature, but it is standard practice at Nikini Solar to ensure system integrity and safety. 

Advanced cabling and safety features

Nikini Solar employs advanced cabling and ducting solutions to enhance safety and performance:

DC/AC cabling: Nikini uses DC cables suitable for SPV installations that offer resistance against ultraviolet rays and weathering. Local AC cables adhere to international standards to ensure reliability and safety.

Aluminium ducting: To protect high-voltage DC wires from exposure and potential damage by rodents, Nikini Solar uses aluminium ducts. These ducts protect the cables and dissipate heat, reducing the risk of overheating. The use of aluminium ducts allows for easier maintenance, as cables can be accessed without the need to pull them out of PVC tubing. Additionally, aluminium ducts ground DC leakages, enabling inverters to detect errors and shut down safely, preventing electric shocks during maintenance.

Comprehensive system design and maintenance

Nikini Solar’s holistic approach to system design and maintenance includes:

Connectors and protective measures: Nikini Solar only use Standard connectors (original MC4) for PV installation. All connectors are covered with ducts to ensure interconnection points are water-resistant. Indoor cabling is also done using aluminium ducts to ensure system longevity. Switchgear and surge arrestors from reputable brands rated for DC applications are used to enhance system safety.

Looking ahead

Nikini Solar’s unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and engineering excellence ensures that its solar installations are efficient, durable, and safe. As the Nikini continues to lead in the solar energy market in Sri Lanka, it remains dedicated to advancing renewable energy solutions that pave the way for a sustainable future. With a record of groundbreaking achievements and a steadfast dedication to leveraging the latest technology, Nikini Solar is poised to remain at the forefront of Sri Lanka’s renewable energy sector, driving the country towards a greener and more sustainable tomorrow.