Regen Renewables poised to take the lead in generating much-needed sustainable energy for the country

Regen Renewables Director and CTO Champika Periyapperuma

Regen Renewables Sri Lanka has emerged as an eminent leader in the renewable energy sector, driven by a vision for a sustainable future and a commitment to innovation. As we approach the midpoint of 2024, Champika Periyapperuma, Director and CTO of the company reflected on REGEN’s success stories in Sri Lanka and outlined their ambitious plans that will guide the company forward in the years ahead.

“AT REGEN we take immense pride in the successful completion of numerous solar installation projects throughout Sri Lanka. Since our establishment in 2013, we have led the renewable energy sector in Sri Lanka, embodying a commitment to responsible solar practices. REGEN utilises premium materials and cutting-edge technologies in our installations, ensuring systems that are reliable, durable, and require minimal maintenance. Whether it’s small-scale residential setups or large-scale commercial endeavours, our track record speaks volumes about our ability to provide high-quality solar energy solutions. Our installations have been instrumental in helping clients reduce energy costs, enhance efficiency, and shrink their carbon footprint.”

Speaking of some of the success stories reaped, Periyapperuma outlined that in a landmark achievement for the renewable energy sector, REGEN Renewables became the pioneer in Sri Lanka to undertake a hybrid solar pilot project for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in 2019. This initiative not only set the platform for hybrid solar technology in the country but also paved the way for broader integration of such systems across Sri Lanka by 2023.

He also noted that since their inception, REGEN has been providing a significant boost to the national grid, delivering clean energy to the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) and Lanka Electricity Company (LECO) through customers covering multiple industries, Government institutions and residences alike. 

REGEN’s recognition for its engineering excellence and acceptance by the electrical engineering leaders was consolidated and enhanced by them being the Solar Energy Partner to power-up the CEB head office and LECO. REGEN converted the CEB head office to a solar rooftop in the year 2023. This was a competitive tender floated by the CEB and higher level of attention was given to engineering assessment and then financial. REGEN has excelled in both aspects of these and was awarded the project.

This collaboration has not only enhanced the stability and reliability of the country’s power supply but has also played a critical role in reducing dependence on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions. Their efforts continue to save millions of US Dollars by avoided fossil fuel imports, thus making a significant impact on the economy. REGEN has been the preferred solar integration partner for one of the leading engineering enterprises, Lanka Transformers Group, to integrate advanced renewable energy solutions into the national infrastructure. These key collaborations speak volumes of their trust in REGEN’s technology leadership, collective technical expertise and committed after sales support. 

REGEN achieved another significant milestone in the renewable energy sector with the completion of their first one megawatt (1 MW) solar project for Isabella Group in Katunayake. This landmark project was instrumental in delivering substantial economic and environmental benefits, with above average energy yields. For Isabella, the switch to solar energy translated into significant cost savings on electricity bills, enhancing their operational efficiency and competitiveness. On a broader scale, the project contributed to reducing carbon emissions in the export processing zone, supporting Sri Lanka’s national goals for carbon reduction and environmental sustainability,” explained Periyapperuma.

Giving a further insight to REGEN’s ability to handle MW scale industrial rooftop projects, Periyapperuma elaborated on REGEN undertaking of another ambitious project in 2018-2019 for Windforce PLC, a subsidiary of the prominent tea exporter Akbar Brothers. This project involved the installation of 7.3 MW of solar systems across multiple sites. By completing grid-connection of these installations ahead of schedule, REGEN empowered Windforce PLC’s drive towards solidifying its leadership in the renewable energy landscape.

In 2021, REGEN extended its wingspan to embark into green investment by converting multiple factory roofs of Orit Apparels group into solar installations. This 4.1 MW project contributed to substantial carbon footprint reductions and financial benefits for Orit apparels while enhancing REGEN’s commitment towards sustainable growth. REGEN extended this portfolio in 2024, with the addition of another 1.07 MW solar rooftop system at the Central Fish Market Complex at Peliyagoda.

Regen Renewables has garnered many accolades and recognition for its outstanding contributions to the renewable energy sector. They were honoured with the esteemed President’s Award in 2017. This prestigious recognition highlights REGEN’s significant contributions towards the success of ‘Soorya Bala Sangramaya’, advancing renewable energy integration to the national grid and promoting sustainable development in Sri Lanka. REGEN also clinched the title of Best Dealer in the Region in 2017 from Kaco New Energy, Germany – a global leader in inverter sales. This award acknowledges the company’s exceptional performance, customer satisfaction, and market leadership within the renewable energy industry. REGEN’s dedication to delivering high-quality products and services, coupled with its customer-centric approach, has set a benchmark for excellence in the region. In addition to these major accolades, REGEN received multiple Awards of Merit at ‘National Business Excellence Awards 2023’ organised by the National Chamber of Commerce. These awards recognise REGEN’s efforts in promoting environmental sustainability, reducing carbon footprints, and fostering renewable energy adoption across various sectors of Sri Lankan society.

Regen Renewables has also reaffirmed its commitment to community welfare by donating dry rations on a regular basis to Suwa Mansala, a charitable residence that provides accommodation for families of cancer patients receiving treatment at the Maharagama Cancer Hospital. This is in addition to REGEN’s contribution towards the design, installation, commissioning and free maintenance of a solar rooftop system at this establishment, to take care of their total electrical energy needs. This initiative highlights REGEN’s dedication to supporting local communities and contributing positively to societal well-being beyond its core operations in the renewable energy sector.

Mapping the way forward for 2024, Periyapperuma said that REGEN plans to scale up its operations by initiating new solar projects across the island. These projects aim to further reduce Sri Lanka’s dependence on fossil fuels and contribute positively to national energy security.

REGEN also plans to intensify collaborations with the Sri Lankan Government, non-governmental organisations, and international bodies to foster a robust renewable energy ecosystem. By advocating for supportive policies for green energy investments and engaging in public-private partnerships, REGEN aims to create an environment conducive to sustainable energy growth.

Beyond energy production, Regen Renewables Sri Lanka is committed to broader environmental sustainability. The company will enhance its environmental stewardship programs, focusing on biodiversity conservation, carbon footprint reduction across operations, and promoting circular economy principles. These efforts will ensure that REGEN’s growth is aligned with environmental preservation.

Customer satisfaction being a top priority for REGEN, the company plans for enhanced customer-centric services, including personalised energy solutions and support systems. Leveraging digital platforms and smart technologies, REGEN aims to provide seamless and efficient services to its customers, ensuring a superior customer experience.

Regen Renewables Sri Lanka stands as a testament to progress in the renewable energy industry. With its impressive track record and forward-looking strategies, the company is well-positioned to continue its leadership in driving Sri Lanka’s transition towards sustainable energy. As 2024 progresses, REGEN is set to achieve even greater milestones, reinforcing its commitment to a greener and more sustainable future for all Sri Lankans.