Hayleys Solar, Sri Lanka’s No. 1 solar solutions provider, has completed a major solar energy transformation for Toyota Lanka (Private) Limited, installing a combined 3.3 MWp of solar generation capacity across four of the automotive group’s key facilities nationwide. The rollout is expected to generate roughly 4.6 GWh of clean electricity a year, enough to supply close to 1,900 average Sri Lankan households annually, while cutting an estimated 2,300 tonnes of CO₂ emissions each year.

The project spans four facilities: Toyota Lanka Head Office (640.15 kWp), the Toyota Lanka Body Repair and Paint Centre (461.97 kWp), the Toyota Lanka Ratmalana facility (432.47 kWp), and the Toyota Lanka Fulfillment Centre, delivered in two phases (585.28 kWp and 1,194.75 kWp), totaling 3,314.62 kWp. Designing and delivering a phased build-out of this size for a single client group showcases Hayleys Solar’s ability to plan, sequence, and execute large, multi-site commercial solar programmes, not just individual installations.

Mr. Manohara Atukorala, Managing Director / Chief Executive Officer of Toyota Lanka, described the project as a reflection of the company’s long-term commitment to sustainable operations and its contribution to Sri Lanka’s transition towards clean energy.

“Partnering with Hayleys Solar has enabled us to move beyond a single-site initiative towards a coordinated, company-wide solar strategy. This marks an important step in Toyota Lanka’s long-term sustainability journey. As we continue to expand our islandwide presence, with the goal of establishing a network of 30 branches across Sri Lanka by 2026, we are equally committed to integrating renewable energy solutions across our operations. Through initiatives such as this, we aim to reduce our carbon footprint and ensure that our business growth goes hand in hand with greater environmental responsibility.”

For Hasith Prematillake, Managing Director of Hayleys Fentons Limited, the project is a clear example of what’s possible when a leading Sri Lankan business partners with the company on a long-term, group-wide clean energy strategy. “Toyota Lanka’s decision to scale solar across four of its facilities reflects the kind of ambition we want to see more of in the corporate sector, and it reinforces Hayleys Solar’s position at the forefront of large-scale commercial and industrial solar in Sri Lanka.”

Commenting on the project, Roshane Perera, Deputy Managing Director – Energy of Hayleys Fentons, said, “This project reflects the continued confidence that leading corporates place in Hayleys Solar to deliver reliable, high-quality solar solutions across multiple locations. Our proven technical capabilities, strong project management expertise and island-wide execution capacity enable us to support organisations such as Toyota Lanka in advancing their long-term sustainability goals through scalable clean energy solutions.”

As rooftop and ground-mounted solar become increasingly central to Sri Lanka’s clean energy transition, Hayleys Solar continues to expand its footprint in the large-scale commercial and industrial segment, positioning multi-site, phased programmes like this one as a blueprint for how Sri Lankan businesses can decarbonise at scale.

Hayleys Solar outlines how flexible energy management can ease grid capacity constraints for rooftop solar

As rooftop solar adoption grows across Sri Lanka, some households and businesses face difficulties obtaining grid clearance due to limitations in the existing electricity network. In certain areas, transformers and distribution lines may already be considered fully utilised, preventing additional solar systems from being connected to the grid.

Hayleys Solar believes that addressing this challenge requires smarter energy management alongside grid upgrades. To support this approach, the company is introducing the concept of the “Flexumer”, a flexible energy user who generates, consumes, stores and exports electricity based on national grid requirements.

Unlike a traditional prosumer, which exports surplus solar energy as it is generated, a Flexumer uses smart technologies to determine when electricity should be consumed, stored, or exported.

Instead of exporting all surplus solar generation during the day, a Flexumer can store energy in batteries, increase on-site consumption or export electricity when grid demand is higher. This reduces transformer loading and enables more rooftop solar systems to be connected within the same area.

Commenting on the concept, Roshane Perera, Deputy Managing Director – Energy, Hayleys Fentons Limited, said:

“Today, a 100 kW transformer may be considered fully utilised when only a limited number of households with 5 kW rooftop solar systems are connected to it. As a result, new solar applications may be restricted or rejected, even when customer demand is strong.

“However, if these customers operate as lexumers and intelligently manage when they consume, store, or export electricity, the same transformer may be able to accommodate many more rooftop solar systems while improving the quality and reliability of electricity without requiring immediate costly infrastructure upgrades.

“We must move beyond viewing customers simply as electricity producers and consumers. By enabling them to become flexible participants in the energy system, we can free up grid capacity, improve power quality, and help more Sri Lankans benefit from renewable energy.”

The Flexumer model could be particularly valuable in areas where customers are unable to obtain CEB clearance due to transformer capacity or other grid-related restrictions. Hybrid solar systems, battery storage, smart inverters, and intelligent energy management solutions can reduce unnecessary exports during congested periods while supporting the grid when electricity demand is higher

Greater flexibility could enable significantly more rooftop solar installations using existing network infrastructure while reducing the need for immediate grid upgrades.

According to Hayleys Solar, Sri Lanka’s renewable energy transition must now prioritise smarter energy management alongside continued solar deployment.

By transforming conventional solar customers (prosumers) into Flexumers, Hayleys Solar aims to help create a smarter and more responsive energy system that benefits customers, the Ceylon Electricity Board, and the country as a whole.

As Sri Lanka moves towards a cleaner and more decentralised energy future, smart energy management will be essential to overcoming grid limitations and enabling more homes and businesses to adopt rooftop solar.

Power interruptions are more than a temporary inconvenience for Sri Lankan households and businesses. A sudden blackout can disrupt children’s education, remote work, business operations and everyday life.

As Sri Lanka transitions towards renewable energy, many consumers are seeking greater energy security. However, energy independence does not necessarily mean disconnecting from the national grid. The smarter approach is to balance reliability, efficiency and financial practicality.

At Hayleys Solar, the renewable energy arm of Hayleys Fentons, we believe true energy independence is about having greater control over how energy is generated, stored and used.

Traditional grid-connected solar systems automatically shut down during a power outage for safety reasons. A Hybrid Solar System offers a more resilient alternative by combining solar panels, battery storage and grid connectivity. It allows consumers to use solar energy during the day, store excess power for later and maintain backup power when the grid fails.

For most households and small businesses, this provides a more practical solution than going completely off-grid, which often requires larger batteries and a significantly higher investment.

How Hybrid Solar Works in Real Life

Consider a small household that uses an air conditioner, refrigerator, washing machine and electric iron, with an average monthly consumption of 300 kWh. Without an electricity export arrangement, the household may receive a monthly bill of approximately LKR 20,350.

By installing a 3 kW hybrid inverter, 3 kWp of solar panels and a 5 kWh battery, the household could significantly reduce its grid consumption.

If 100 kWh is consumed during the day, this requirement could be supplied directly through solar energy. Assuming the battery provides approximately 4 kWh of usable energy per day, it could supply a further 120 kWh each month for night-time use.

The household would then need to purchase only around 80 kWh from the grid, potentially reducing the monthly electricity bill to approximately LKR 1,640.

A similar principle applies to a small office operating two air conditioners, ten computers and lighting, with an average monthly consumption of 600 kWh. Its monthly electricity bill may be approximately LKR 23,200.

Since most office activity takes place during the day, around 400 kWh could be consumed during working hours. A system comprising a 10 kW hybrid inverter, 10 kWp of solar panels and a 5 kWh battery could supply this daytime requirement directly through solar energy.

The battery could provide approximately 120 kWh per month for after-hours consumption, leaving only around 80 kWh to be purchased from the grid. This could reduce the monthly bill to approximately LKR 2,660.

These examples show that the best solar investment is not always the largest system. The ideal solution is one designed around the consumer’s actual daytime usage, night-time demand, essential appliances and budget.

Actual savings will vary depending on weather conditions, energy consumption, battery performance, system losses and the applicable electricity tariff. A detailed energy assessment is therefore essential before selecting a system.

For most homes and small businesses, energy independence is not about powering every appliance during an outage or completely leaving the grid. It is about ensuring that essential activities continue while reducing electricity costs and dependence on an unpredictable power supply.

At Hayleys Solar, we continue to help Sri Lankans adopt smarter and more sustainable energy solutions designed around real-life needs.

Because true energy independence is not about leaving the grid behind. It is about remaining in control when it matters most.

Hayleys Solar, Sri Lanka’s No. 1 renewable energy solutions provider, has successfully handed over a 90 kW rooftop solar power system to the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, marking a significant milestone in advancing clean energy integration within the country’s higher education sector.

Initiated by the Old Boys’ Association of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, the project reflects the powerful role alumni can play in advancing institutional development and long-term sustainability.

The installation will help meet a substantial portion of the faculty’s daily energy requirements, reducing reliance on conventional grid electricity while enhancing energy efficiency and lowering its carbon footprint.

“As Sri Lanka continues its journey towards a more sustainable energy future, initiatives such as this demonstrate the growing importance of renewable energy adoption across key sectors. Educational institutions play a vital role in shaping future generations, and integrating clean energy solutions into their operations creates a lasting impact beyond energy savings. At Hayleys Solar, we are proud to support institutions such as the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, in achieving greater energy independence while contributing towards the country’s renewable energy goals,” said Roshane Perera, Deputy Managing Director – Energy, Hayleys Fentons Limited.

As institutions increasingly embrace responsible resource management, the Faculty of Medicine’s investment in renewable energy sets a strong benchmark for sustainable campus development across the country.

The project delivers both economic and environmental value, helping the Faculty reduce operational energy costs while contributing to meaningful reductions in greenhouse gas emissions over the long term.

With this successful handover, Hayleys Solar continues to play a leading role in supporting Sri Lanka’s transition toward renewable energy, highlighting the impact of partnerships between the private sector, educational institutions, and alumni networks to build a more sustainable future.

Ranked No. 1 in LMD’s Brands Annual 2026, Hayleys Solar cements its position as Sri Lanka’s most trusted name in renewable energy

Reinforcing its leadership in Sri Lanka’s renewable energy sector, Hayleys Solar has once again been ranked the nation’s Most Loved Solar Brand in LMD’s Brands Annual 2026. The back-to-back recognition highlights the brand’s success in building lasting customer relationships while driving the adoption of clean energy solutions nationwide.

As one of the country’s most respected measures of brand affinity, LMD’s Brands Annual offers valuable insight into consumer trust and loyalty. Retaining the top position in the solar category highlights Hayleys Solar’s ability to consistently deliver value, reliability, and a superior customer experience.

The recognition follows a year of significant growth and industry-leading milestones. Hayleys Solar has surpassed 750 MW of installed solar capacity, completed more than 5,000 hybrid solar installations across the island, and achieved 30 MWh in energy storage capacity. The company has also delivered nearly 300 MW of ground-mounted solar installations and over 110 MW of wind energy projects, cementing its position as a leader in residential solar as well as large-scale renewable energy development.

Hayleys Solar’s enduring appeal stems from its ability to make clean energy practical and accessible for every customer. Drawing on the 100+ year engineering legacy of Hayleys Fentons and the expertise of over 400 engineers nationwide, the brand remains focused on delivering tailored solutions and lasting value throughout the customer journey.

Hasith Prematillake, Managing Director of Hayleys Fentons Limited, commented:
“Being named LMD’s Most Loved Solar Brand for two consecutive years reflects the deep trust Sri Lankan consumers continue to place in us. It is a recognition of our entire team’s commitment, from engineering to after-sales, in delivering reliable and accessible clean energy solutions to the country.”

Roshane Perera, Deputy Managing Director – Energy, Hayleys Fentons Limited, added: “This recognition reinforces our purpose of driving Sri Lanka’s transition to clean energy. Being named the Most Loved Solar Brand in Sri Lanka for two consecutive years is a significant milestone that reflects the trust and confidence consumers place in Hayleys Solar. It motivates us to continue innovating and expanding solutions that make solar power more dependable, efficient, and accessible for every home and business.”

Nanduni Dahanayaka, Deputy General Manager – Marketing and Corporate Communications, Hayleys Fentons Limited, stated:
“Hayleys Solar has truly evolved into a household name in Sri Lanka’s renewable energy space. We are deeply humbled by the continued love and trust shown by our customers, and it is incredibly rewarding to see how far the brand has come over the years. This recognition reflects not only our growth as a brand, but also the strong emotional connection we have built with the people of Sri Lanka. We remain committed to pushing boundaries and making clean energy an everyday reality for all.”

Roshane Perera, Deputy Managing Director – Energy of Hayleys Fentons, has been honoured with the prestigious Global CEO 45 Under 45 Leadership Excellence Platinum Award 2025, recognising exceptional young leaders who are shaping industries through visionary leadership, innovation, and measurable national impact.

Mr. Perera is widely regarded as one of Sri Lanka’s most influential leaders in the renewable energy sector, with a strong track record in driving large-scale energy transformation and building future-ready organisations aligned with national sustainability priorities.

Since taking the helm of Hayleys Solar in 2017, Roshane Perera has transformed a 26-person operation with Rs. 1 billion in turnover into a business comprising over 800 professionals, delivering Rs. 15 billion in annual revenue and Rs. 3–4 billion in profit – representing one of the most remarkable growth stories in Sri Lanka’s corporate landscape.

An Electrical Engineer from the University of Moratuwa with an MSc in Sustainable Energy Systems from Queen Mary University of London, and early international exposure within Switzerland’s advanced energy ecosystem, Roshane Perera brought a globally informed perspective to Sri Lanka’s emerging solar industry.

Under his leadership, Hayleys Solar expanded its market share from 3% to 25%, and is on track to surpass 750 MW of installed capacity by mid-2026. Today, the company stands as one of Sri Lanka’s most recognised solar brands, having delivered over 500 MW of rooftop solar capacity, built a customer base exceeding 20,000, and deployed more than 5,000 battery systems.

His tenure has delivered a series of national firsts, including Sri Lanka’s first large-scale lithium-ion battery storage system and the country’s largest 2 MWh BESS installation to date, the first solar-powered telecom tower network spanning over 1,000 sites, and the first agrivoltaic pilot project in partnership with the Asian Development Bank and the University of Peradeniya.

Roshane Perera has also secured Sri Lanka’s most complex utility-scale solar portfolio, comprising 40 projects totalling 300 MW, expanded into wind power through 110 MW of projects including the landmark HayWind project in Mannar, and grown Hayleys Solar into the second-largest solar provider in the Maldives.

Roshane Perera attributes this growth to people, not just projects. A people-centric leader, he built Hayleys Solar’s culture around trust, accountability, and continuous learning – navigating regulatory changes, economic challenges, and market volatility by turning obstacles into opportunities for innovation.

This leadership journey has been further strengthened by the strong governance of Hayleys Fentons Limited and the wider Hayleys Group, including the strategic guidance of Hasith Prematillake, Managing Director of Hayleys Fentons Limited.

The Global CEO 45 Under 45 Leadership Excellence Platinum Award 2025 recognises not only Perera’s individual leadership but also the collective achievements of the team behind Hayleys Fentons’s growth, innovation, and national impact – reaffirming the company’s role as a defining force in Sri Lanka’s clean energy future.

Roshane Perera, Deputy Managing Director – Energy of Hayleys Fentons

With rising electricity bills and frequent power interruptions in Sri Lanka, more homeowners and businesses are exploring reliable solar energy solutions. One of the most efficient and flexible options available today is the hybrid solar system.

This system is designed to give you both energy savings and backup power, making it one of the most practical choices for Sri Lankan conditions.

What is a Hybrid Solar System?

A hybrid solar system combines two energy sources:

  • Solar power generated from rooftop panels
  • Battery storage for backup energy
  • Grid electricity as a secondary support

This combination allows users to manage energy more efficiently while reducing dependency on the national grid.

How Does a Hybrid Solar System Work?

  1. Solar Energy Generation

Solar panels installed on rooftops convert sunlight into usable electricity.

  1. Energy Usage & Storage

The generated power is:

  • Used directly in your home or business
  • Stored in batteries for later use
  1. Smart Power Management

A hybrid inverter automatically:

  • Prioritizes solar usage
  • Switches to battery during low sunlight
  • Uses grid power only when necessary

This ensures uninterrupted and optimized energy usage.

Hybrid vs On-Grid vs Off-Grid Systems

On-Grid Solar System

  • Connected to the national grid
  • No battery backup
  • Lower initial cost

✔ Best for reducing electricity bills

Off-Grid Solar System

  • Fully independent system
  • Uses batteries only
  • No grid connection

✔ Best for remote locations

Hybrid Solar System

  • Combines solar, battery, and grid
  • Works during power cuts
  • Offers maximum flexibility

✔ Best overall solution for Sri Lankan homes and businesses

Why Hybrid Solar is Becoming Popular in Sri Lanka

Hybrid systems are gaining demand due to:

  • Increasing electricity costs
  • Unstable power supply in some regions
  • High solar energy potential throughout the year
  • Growing need for energy independence

This makes hybrid solar a long-term practical investment for both homes and businesses.

 

Is Hybrid Solar Expensive?

One of the most common concerns among customers is cost.

The investment for a hybrid system depends on:

  • System size (e.g., 5kW, 10kW)
  • Battery capacity
  • Equipment quality
  • Installation requirements

Although hybrid systems require a higher initial investment compared to standard solar systems, they provide:

  • Significant long-term electricity savings
  • Protection from power outages
  • Reduced dependence on rising utility costs

Over time, many users find that the system pays for itself through energy savings.

If you are evaluating the right system size or trying to understand the actual investment required for your home or business, it is recommended to consult a professional solar provider.

For expert guidance and a customized hybrid solar solution, contact Hayles Solar to get a tailored system design and quotation.

Who Should Consider a Hybrid Solar System?

A hybrid solar system is ideal for:

  • Homes affected by frequent power cuts
  • Businesses requiring uninterrupted power
  • Offices with high daytime energy usage
  • Anyone looking for long-term energy savings

Choosing the right solar provider is important to ensure system efficiency and long-term performance.

A hybrid solar system is one of the most efficient and reliable energy solutions available in Sri Lanka today, especially for those seeking both savings and energy security.

If you are planning to invest in solar energy, the next step is understanding system pricing, installation requirements, and long-term benefits in detail.

In a move aimed at accelerating solar adoption across Sri Lanka, Hayleys Solar, Sri Lanka’s No. 1 solar energy provider, has joined forces with PMF Finance PLC to provide accessible financing solutions that help residential and commercial customers invest in clean energy with greater ease and confidence.

The partnership brings together Hayleys Solar’s extensive expertise in renewable energy and PMF Finance PLC’s over 43 years of experience in Sri Lanka’s financial services sector, creating a seamless pathway for customers seeking to invest in sustainable energy solutions.

Customers will gain access to customised financing solutions designed to reduce the upfront cost of solar installations, enabling greater long-term savings on electricity bills while supporting Sri Lanka’s transition towards a more sustainable and resilient energy future.

Speaking on the partnership, Mr Roshane Perera, Deputy Managing Director – Energy, Hayleys Fentons, stated:

“This partnership with PMF Finance PLC marks an important step in our mission to make solar energy more accessible to a wider segment of society. By integrating flexible financing solutions with our renewable energy offerings, we are enabling more customers to confidently invest in clean energy while enjoying long-term financial and environmental benefits.”

Commenting on the collaboration, Prof. (Dr) Dewasiri N. Jayantha, Director/Chief Executive Officer of PMF Finance PLC, stated:

“We are pleased to collaborate with Hayleys Solar in supporting Sri Lanka’s transition towards sustainable energy. Through our financing solutions, we aim to make solar adoption more achievable for customers by easing financial constraints and providing convenient repayment options.”

About Hayleys Solar

Hayleys Solar, the renewable energy arm of Hayleys Fentons Limited, predominantly focuses on solar PV installations for the residential, commercial, and industrial market segments, as well as utility-scale projects, enabling greater utilisation of sustainable energy resources in the country. Hayleys Solar has completed over 500 MWp of solar installations island-wide by the end of 2025, making  Hayleys Solar the undisputed leader in Solar Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) in Sri Lanka.

About PMF Finance PLC
PMF Finance PLC is a licensed finance company in Sri Lanka, providing a range of financial solutions designed to support individuals and businesses in achieving their financial goals. The company focuses on delivering accessible and flexible financing options, including leasing, personal loans, and other credit facilities, with an emphasis on customer convenience and service excellence. PMF Finance PLC continues to play a supportive role in enabling financial empowerment and contributing to economic growth by helping customers invest in opportunities that improve their quality of life and business development.

Strapline: Enjoy stable, long-term savings now with Hayleys Solar

Ayanthi Udugampola

Pictures by Sudath Malaweera

Due to rising electricity tariffs, both domestic consumers and local industries are under severe pressure, as production costs and commodity prices have increased. The most effective and timely solution for both domestic and large-scale sectors is to transition towards renewable energy.

Roshene Perera, Deputy Managing Director – Energy of Hayleys Fentons, currently Sri Lanka’s number one solar energy solutions provider and a pioneer in the field, shares insights into the company’s successful journey.

“Fentons, one of Sri Lanka’s oldest electrical engineering institutions with a 106-year history, became ‘Hayleys Fentons’ after being acquired by the Hayleys Group in 2016. Its existing ‘Fentons Solar’ division is what we now successfully operate under the ‘Hayleys Solar’ brand as the renewable energy arm of Hayleys Fentons.

Starting as a project contractor in its early stages, Hayleys Solar has now grown into Sri Lanka’s largest solar energy company. Out of the country’s total rooftop solar capacity of 2,000 to 2,200 MW, the company has contributed over 500 MW. This represents a market share of 22% to 25%, clearly demonstrating that Hayleys Solar consistently maintains its leading position among more than 700 renewable energy companies registered with the Sustainable Energy Authority.

Two years ago, through a competitive state tender process, Hayleys Solar successfully secured large-scale ground-mounted solar energy projects of 11 MW and 138 MW. Construction of these 149 MW projects, which consist of 38 sites spread across the island, is currently in its final stages. Our goal is to add this entire capacity to the national grid by December this year, with the flagship initiative among these being the 17 MW Polonnaruwa solar energy project. Additionally, two further projects secured by the company, a 50 MW project in Jaffna and a 100 MW project in Trincomalee are scheduled for implementation over the next two years. With the completion of these projects, the company aims to reach an overall target capacity of 750 to 800 MW in the near future.

At the same time, we have successfully secured a 50 MW wind energy project in Mannar Island through a Ceylon Electricity Board tender. By outbidding other local and international companies with an extremely competitive low price, winning this project as a local company has helped retain a significant amount of foreign exchange that would otherwise have flowed overseas.

Under this project, 10 large 5 MW wind turbines featuring 110-metre-high towers and 76-metre-long blades are scheduled to be installed. All turbines will be transported from Trincomalee Port to Mannar within the next four months, and transportation will be carried out exclusively at night to minimise traffic congestion and public inconvenience. Furthermore, the project is expected to be added to the national grid by December this year. Accordingly, Hayleys Solar’s ultimate goal is to contribute a total capacity of 250 MW to the national grid by December this year through combined solar and wind energy projects.

Today, countries such as the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia exchange electricity through the ASEAN Grid, while India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan do so via similar interconnections. Since Sri Lanka is still lagging behind in this regard, it must overcome existing barriers and develop the capability to connect efficiently with the South Asian electricity grid.

Moreover, even if global crude oil prices or the value of the US dollar fluctuates, the cost of renewable energy remains stable, which is a major advantage. For example, if the cost of a generated unit of electricity is 20 rupees, that price can remain stable for the next 20 years. Installing a solar energy system in a home can reduce this unit cost further, and for large-scale industries, the ability to consistently minimise monthly operational and production costs through rooftop solar panels is highly beneficial from a business perspective.

Furthermore, if rooftop solar power is insufficient for a factory with high electricity consumption, solar panels can be installed on land located elsewhere through the “power wheeling” mechanism. In this setup, electricity can be transmitted to the factory simply by paying a transmission fee (wheeling charge) to the Ceylon Electricity Board.

Today, solar and wind power are among the lowest-cost energy generation methods in the world. However, a major issue currently faced by many households installing solar panels is the inability to export electricity to the national grid due to the limited capacity of local transformers. Nevertheless, as global battery prices continue to decline, an effective alternative has emerged. By integrating batteries into rooftop solar systems (off-grid or hybrid systems), consumers can store the electricity they generate and power their homes entirely using solar energy without relying on the national grid. This is an ideal solution for significantly reducing rising electricity bills.

Q: Hayleys Solar, is a household name in Sri Lanka’s renewable energy space. As you feature in LMD’s Brands Annual 2026, how do you define your brand’s essence today—and what makes it resonate most with consumers in such a competitive market?

A: Today, Hayleys Solar represents trust, accessibility, and long-term partnership. What began as a largely B2B focused brand has evolved into a name that resonates with households across Sri Lanka.

At its core, the brand is built on making solar simple and relatable. We recognised early on that solar energy can feel complex, so we focused on educating customers in a way that is easy to understand and relevant to their everyday lives. This shift helped us inspire people to live a life full of light, positioning solar not just as a utility solution but as a meaningful lifestyle choice. It helped us move from being just a service provider to a brand that connects emotionally with people.

We have consistently focused on ensuring that Hayleys Solar remains a brand related to everyone. From the way we communicate to the way we design our customer journey, our goal has been to make solar energy feel accessible rather than complex or intimidating.

Our recent Kaari Na campaign reflects this approach, bringing together rational benefits and emotional relevance in a way that speaks to diverse Sri Lankan households and makes solar more approachable. Also our emphasis on top-of-mind awareness and strong brand recall is driven by clear, education focused communication and relatable storytelling through campaigns that connect with Sri Lankan consumers in a meaningful way.

Q: In a crowded market, how does your brand differentiate itself beyond price and product?

A: Our differentiation goes beyond price and product specifications. It is rooted in trust, long term responsibility, and service continuity.

In Sri Lanka, multiple solar companies operate in the market, but not all are able to sustain long-term service commitments. What sets us apart is our stability and credibility, backed by the 100-year engineering heritage of Hayleys Fentons.

Strengthening this foundation is our team of over 300 highly skilled and experienced engineers. As an organisation, we actively empower them by providing both local and international exposure, enabling continuous learning and ensuring that global best practices are brought into every project we undertake.

We do not just deliver high quality solar solutions. We go further by offering exceptional after sales support. Our dedicated service team ensures customers receive timely maintenance and assistance throughout their journey. Beyond our own clients, we also extend support to users of other solar brands when adequate aftercare is not provided, reinforcing our commitment to reliable service across the industry.

In addition to this, Hayleys Solar has delivered large scale renewable energy projects, including nearly 300 MW of ground mounted solar installations and over 110 MW of wind energy projects. These milestones highlight our capability to execute complex, utility scale developments and reinforce our position as a trusted leader in Sri Lanka’s renewable energy landscape.

Also, we offer a 30-year manufacturer warranty, reflecting our long-term confidence in the solutions we provide. This approach positions us not just as a provider, but as a dependable partner that customers can rely on for the long term.

Q: Public opinion reflects consumer trust. How has your brand earned and sustained this trust over time?

A: Trust has been built through consistency, performance, and a strong service foundation. In a market where customers seek reliability, long-term assurance plays a critical role in decision-making.

Hayleys Solar continues to strengthen its leadership in Sri Lanka’s renewable energy sector, having already achieved 500 MW in installed capacity, demonstrating its capability to deliver large-scale and complex solar projects. Building on this success, the company has surpassed 5,000 hybrid installations islandwide and reached 30 MWh in energy storage.

These milestones reflect our commitment to expanding access to reliable and sustainable energy while combining scale, innovation, and strong after-sales support.

Beyond this, our structured service approach further reinforces trust. Through our AMC (after-maintenance contract) framework and dedicated support systems, powered by our 24/7 customer service hotline 011 2 102 102, customers are assisted throughout the lifecycle of their investment. Customers can visit our official website to explore solar solutions and submit inquiries, while our teams support them through approval processes.

Long term value is also defined by responsibility. We ensure that the solutions we provide are sustainable and managed responsibly over time. This consistency in delivery and care has enabled us to build and sustain long-term trust with our customers.

Q: Consumer expectations continue to evolve rapidly. How does your brand stay relevant while remaining true to its core identity?

A: Staying relevant requires continuous innovation while remaining grounded in our core promise of reliability and engineering expertise.

We have actively embraced modern technology, particularly in the area of hybrid solar solutions. With growing demand for energy independence, hybrid systems with battery integration have become increasingly important. In April, we successfully completed over 1,000 hybrid solar installations nationwide, demonstrating our agility in meeting evolving customer needs.

At the same time, we collaborate with globally trusted, tier-one graded suppliers to ensure that our solutions meet international standards in quality and performance.

While we continue to innovate, our core identity remains unchanged. We focus on making solar accessible, understandable, and dependable for every customer, ensuring that technology is always delivered with clarity and purpose.

Interviewee details

Name: Hasith Prematillake

Designation: Managing Director – Hayles Fentons Limited

Name: Roshane Perera

Designation: Deputy Managing Director – Energy at Hayleys Solar