Solar power project to generate 41 megawatts at 28 rice mills set for completion this year
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Htet Nadi/Cherry (NP News)- Mar 18
The Myanmar Rice Federation (MRF) has announced that it is planning to install solar systems at 28 rice mills to generate a total of 41.5 megawatts of electricity and is planning to complete the project this year.
The system was first developed by the MRF in 2023 and is currently being implemented at rice mills in Naypyidaw Council Territory, Yangon, Ayeyarwady, Bago, Mandalay Regions, and Mon State.
“The first 11 rice mills are still in operation. Initially, they started with just 3 units. Over time, they expanded from Thilawa, Naypyidaw, and Laputta in the Ayeyarwady Region, growing to 11 units. From there, the number increased to 28 rice mills. In the meantime, two more are under discussion, and the list continues to grow,” U Ye Min Aung, chairman of the MRF, told The NP News.
A total of 41.5 megawatts will be installed across 28 rice mills, including 17 megawatts at 11 rice mills in Yangon Region, 14 megawatts at eight rice mills in Ayeyarwady Region, five megawatts at three rice mills in Bago Region, 1.5 megawatts at two rice mills in Mandalay Region, three megawatts at a rice mill in Naypyidaw, and one megawatt at a rice mill in Mon State.
“We plan to complete the installation of the 41.5 megawatts within three months. Even if it's not fully finished by then, we aim to complete it by the rainy season. Our rough estimate is that before Thingyan and by early May, we will finalize calculations, price adjustments, and transactions. Once that’s done, we’ll quickly install the frames and other components in May. In the lower towns, if it rains, we’ll install in June and July; if it doesn’t, the installation will take place in August and September. We are committed to finishing it within this year,” U Ye Min Aung continued.
In terms of technical work, it is reported that not only seven solar companies have signed MoUs, but if more companies come forward with offers to work with them, they will continue to sign MoUs.
“These seven companies will conduct field visits to all rice mills, take measurements, calculate, and provide technical assistance. They may also collaborate with companies not included in the list. We are concerned about making mistakes in our work, and the seven companies are those that have experience with national projects. The main goal is technical cooperation. As a result, there may be 7, 8, or even 9 companies involved. Currently, these seven companies have begun visiting and conducting field assessments at the rice mills,” said the Chairman of the MRF.