Due to the high solar energy radiation in northern Chile photovoltaic systems for electrical energy supply in off-grid and on-grid applications present attractive energy solutions under technical and economic aspects. Field experiences made within the last more than 20 years in different projects in small scale applications up to 35 kWp are shown with focus on project planning, design, reliability of components, capacity building and necessary support after installation. In general, a very high acceptance for renewable energy projects can be observed on all levels, from users up to regional and national decision makers, but the number of installations especially in the private sector is relatively low. Technical results and experiences are shown and main obstacles for a wider dissemination are discussed such as investment costs and access to reliable and appropriate information for users.