This week on The Core Report: Weekend Edition, financial journalist Govindraj Ethiraj talks to CEO of Orb Energy Damian Miller about his experience working in Shell's solar operations, the dramatic cost decline of solar technology since 2006, the story behind Shell Solar’s first branch and installation in North Karnataka, the shift from off-grid to on-grid solar systems, the surge of rooftop solar installations across India and much more.
About Damian Miller
Damian Miller's career in solar began in 1998 when he joined Shell Solar out of Cambridge. He played a key role in bringing solar solutions to emerging markets like India, Sri Lanka, Philippines, China and Indonesia. Over his 8 years at Shell Solar, his team oversaw the sale and installation of more than 100,000 solar home systems by 2005.
In 2006, Shell decided to exit the solar business. Recognizing the vast potential of India's burgeoning solar market, Damian Miller saw an opportunity. He co-founded Orb Energy in late 2006 with his colleague from Shell Solar, NP Ramesh. The company secured an initial seed funding of USD 2.5 million to launch its operations in India.