Application of solar PV in China

Solar energy is abundant in the vast western areas of western China, whereas people in this region are often without electricity access because grid electricity is not available. Usually, it is not economically feasible to connect residents of the region to conventional power systems. Using a grant from the Global Environmental Facility (GEF), the China Renewable Energy Development Project (REDP) aims to promote and commercialize the PV market by diverse activities and facilities. After several years' implementation, the REDP has achieved successful results although it has encountered various barriers and risks. As one of the largest PV projects in China, the REDP offers a good case of rural PVs market potential, barriers, risks and challenges. This paper analyzes the implementation and prospects of the REDP, and discusses the experiences and lessons learned from the project.