Hayleys Solar becomes the first and only renewable energy brand to be named among LMD’s Most Loved Brands 2025.
Q: How is Hayleys Solar evolving into a leading energy producer in Sri Lanka?
A: Hayleys Solar has grown from a solar EPC contractor into a leading renewable energy investor, securing 200 MW of projects from the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB), and is now among Sri Lanka’s top energy investors.
Globally, solar power is growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 30-35%, with over 600,000 MW added in 2024 alone – a trend expected to continue over the next decade.
Sri Lanka is expected to follow suit, supporting our long-term growth. Advances in hybrid energy solutions, including battery integration, are also driving sector growth.
We’ve shifted from a B2B focus to building a strong B2C presence, becoming a nationally recognised solar brand. Internationally, we’ve entered the Maldivian market with successful installations.
Hayleys Solar is now synonymous with innovation, reliability, and national relevance— delivering energy solutions while empowering communities and industries islandwide. We hold unmatched brand equity in renewable energy, trusted by both businesses and individuals.
Q: What are some key milestones that have shaped the organisation’s journey?
A: Launched in 2011 as Fentons Solar Energy, we rebranded to Hayleys Solar in 2019 following Hayleys’ acquisition of Fentons in 2016. Our market share has grown from 7% to 25%, and we were the first local company to surpass 300 MW in solar installations.
Since 2019, we’ve focused on the residential sector, gaining over 12,000 customers. We introduced off-grid lithium-ion batteries and PV-DG solutions, and during the power crisis, energised 1,050 Dialog telecom towers to ensure continuous service. Upon reaching 200 MW in 2024, we donated 200 solar systems to 200 care homes.
We launched an agrivoltaic project—funded by the Asian Development Bank and in partnership with the University of Peradeniya—installing semi-transparent panels on tea
estates. We also commissioned the country’s first and largest 2 MWh battery energy storage system and completed Sri Lanka’s largest single-roof solar installation of 6.9 MW within 100 days.
Hayleys Solar has partnered with BYD for LiFePO4 batteries and Bluetti for portable solar generators. We’ve won SLIM’s Green Brand of the Year twice consecutively and are the only Sri Lankan EPC company operating in the Maldives.
Q: How are Sri Lankan brands demonstrating growth and resilience amid Sri Lanka’s economic recovery?
A: During the economic crisis, established brands held a competitive edge, while smaller businesses struggled with high borrowing costs, dollar shortages, and consumer mistrust.
Leveraging the powerful brand image of Hayleys, Hayleys Solar sustained momentum, securing exclusive partnerships with top banks to offer long-term solar loans, alongside high- quality solutions and reliable after-sales service.
For commercial customers, our installations cut energy bills by 20-50%, locking in costs for over 20 years and insulating businesses from price volatility. Apart from brand longevity, our proven track record and high-quality products have fostered trust, enabling companies to advance their sustainability objectives.
Q: In what ways should brands based in Sri Lanka balance their commitment to investment, delivery and customer value enhancement in the next 12 months?
A: Brand loyalty depends on consistent branding, product quality, and reliable service. Brand awareness grows by consistently delivering quality and dependable after-sales support, building consumer trust that must be maintained regardless of economic conditions.
To stay connected with customers, a brand must demonstrate value and uphold its core qualities. At Hayleys Solar, we remain committed to this by investing in brand-upkeep, growth, and improving after-sales service and customer experience to strengthen our Net Promoter Score (NPS).
In line with this, we offer a 20-year promise, assuring customers our systems are built to last for decades. Supported by the legacy and stability of the Hayleys and Hayleys Fentons brands, we are well-positioned to honour this long-term commitment.
Q: How can the power of brands contribute to driving economic recovery in Sri Lanka?
A: Strong brands demonstrated resilience during tough times, maintaining service and delivery, which helped drive economic recovery. Hayleys Solar aided this with renewable energy solutions that offset fossil fuel use.
As Sri Lanka is aiming for 70% reliance on renewable energy, this will reduce fossil fuel imports by 30%. If the country aims for 100%, capital investments for renewable equipment will be the sole cost.
Renewables also create widespread employment and enable households to become “prosumers” by generating and selling electricity to the grid.
INTERVIEWEE DETAILS
Managing Director Hayleys Fentons
Executive Director and CEO Hayleys Solar
