Minister of Energy Anura Karunathilaka announced that tenders have already been called for further battery storage projects of 400 megawatts, 250 megawatts, and 150 megawatts, with evaluations currently underway.

“We believe that before the end of 2027, most likely within the first six months,these projects too can be integrated into our system,” he said, underscoring the Government’s commitment to expanding renewable energy and storage capacity.

Speaking at the commissioning of the Anuradhapura battery storage system, the Minister described Sri Lanka’s electricity sector as entering a “transformative change.” He noted that the country currently generates nearly 3,000 megawatts of solar power during the day, against an average demand of 2,800 megawatts.

At night, however, demand rises to 3,100 megawatts, a gap expected to widen under forecasted El Niño conditions. “Our challenge has been the lack of capacity to store excess solar power generated during the day,” he explained.

To address this, projects totaling 160 megawatts are being implemented, with WindForce responsible for 130 megawatts. “We believe all 160 megawatts can be added to the grid before the end of this year,” he said.

The Minister added that expanding renewable energy and storage capacity will reduce reliance on costly fossil fuels at night, ensuring clean electricity at fair prices, and guaranteeing an efficient, reliable, and uninterrupted supply. (Newswire)

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Minister of Power and Energy Anura Karunathilake announced in Parliament today that Sri Lanka plans to add more than 2,700 gigawatts of electricity to the national grid between 2027 and 2029 through solar, wind, and battery power.

According to the Minister, the expansion will include 1,392 megawatts from solar, 370 megawatts from wind, and 1,000 megawatts from battery storage. 

He noted that rooftop solar generation has already shown significant growth, with around 2,500 megawatts currently being produced from panels installed on households and buildings.

Highlighting challenges in balancing supply, Karunathilake pointed out that excess electricity generation often occurs on Sundays and public holidays. 

To maintain grid stability, he said restrictions are sometimes imposed on solar power generation.

However, with the introduction of battery storage, the Minister explained that excess electricity generated during the daytime could be stored and released at night, ensuring a more stable and efficient energy supply in the future. (Newswire)

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The Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) has announced new feed‑in tariffs for electricity generated from renewable energy sources, effective from August 25, 2026 and valid until February 24, 2027.

According to the PUCSL, the tariffs were determined under powers granted by the Sri Lanka Electricity Act No. 36 of 2024, following a series of public consultations held in line with the PUCSL Act No. 35 of 2002. 

Addressing the media, PUCSL Officials said the new pricing formula was based on cost data, stakeholder proposals, and government policy.

Feed‑in Tariffs for Renewable Power Plants

• Mini hydro – Rs. 30.37 + Rs. 4.50 per kWh
• Wind – Rs. 20.80 + Rs. 4.93 per kWh
• Biomass – Dendro – Rs. 16.43 + Rs. 3.89 + Rs. 31.20 per kWh
• Biomass – Agricultural/Industrial Waste – Rs. 14.29 + Rs. 3.39 + Rs. 17.80 per kWh
• Municipal Solid Waste – Rs. 41.72 + Rs. 14.83 per kWh
• Waste Heat Recovery – Rs. 14.29 + Rs. 3.39 per kWh
• Ground Mounted Solar PV – Rs. 18.00 + Rs. 2.72 per kWh
• Floating Solar PV – Rs. 23.58 + Rs. 3.92 per kWh

Rooftop Solar Prosumer Tariffs

• Up to 10kW – Rs. 23.11 per kWh
• 10–40kW – Rs. 19.15 per kWh
• 40–250kW – Rs. 17.11 per kWh
• 250–1000kW – Rs. 15.81 per kWh
• New Rooftop Solar + BESS – Rs. 45.53 per kWh (priority time, first 15 years); Rs. 15.81 thereafter
• Existing Rooftop Solar + BESS – Rs. 33.51 + (R1/0.95) per kWh (first 15 years); R1/ thereafter

Renewable Plants with Battery Storage

• Ground Mounted Solar PV – Rs. 47.08 (priority time), Rs. 18.00 (other periods)
• Floating Solar PV – Rs. 53.28 (priority time), Rs. 23.58 (other periods)

The PUCSL has also imposed a condition requiring the National System Operator (NSO) to connect sufficient electricity storage systems and renewable capacity to the grid by Q1 2027 to prevent possible shortages. (Newswire)

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The Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) has announced that the process of obtaining public opinion on the purchase price of electricity generated from renewable energy sources concludes today.

Commission Director Jayanath Herath said the feedback will be used to determine renewable electricity tariffs for the next six months. 

Under the Sri Lanka Electricity Reform Act, the Commission holds the authority to decide and approve the price and formula for electricity purchased from renewable sources such as solar, wind, and biomass.

Herath noted that the price formulas have already been prepared and approved, and a public consultation process was launched two months ago to gather data and views from stakeholders.

The consultation session, which commenced on July 11, is being held today (22) from 9.00 am to 2.30 pm at the BMICH in Colombo. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka’s Cabinet has approved the Renewable Energy Resource Development Plan 2025–2030, aimed at expanding the country’s renewable energy capacity in line with national policy targets.

The plan seeks to meet 70% of national electricity demand from renewable energy sources by 2030 and to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

Preparation of the plan is mandated under the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority Act, No. 35 of 2007. The strategy was developed by the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority in consultation with relevant stakeholders.

Accordingly, the plan focuses on three key areas: identifying and prioritizing suitable land for renewable energy projects, developing a national renewable energy map, and setting timelines for the development of renewable energy parks. Floating solar power projects are also included.

The Minister of Energy presented the plan to the Cabinet, which granted approval for its implementation. (Newswire)

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The Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) says that a public consultation will be held today (02 July) to identify the challenges faced by renewable energy developers in the country.

According to the Commission, opinions from stakeholders will be collected verbally during the event held from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) in Colombo.

It is noted that this action has been taken under the authority vested by Section 17 of the Sri Lanka Public Utilities Commission Act No. 35 of 2002.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Solar Power Developers Association, Dr. Shyam Pathiraja, stated that a number of stakeholders are expected to raise issues related to the crisis faced by the country’s renewable energy sector. (Newswire)

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The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) reports that 72% of its electricity generation was received from Renewable Energy (RE) sources in June this year.

According to the Daily News, CEB spokesman Dhammika Wimalaweera said this is the first time since the 1990s that it has achieved this feat.

Stating that the electricity generation from renewable sources reached nearly 70% in the last few months, he said, however, it surpassed the 70% mark this month.

Dhammika Wimalaweera pointed out that this milestone marks a significant turnaround from the country’s earlier reliance on nearly 100% hydro power, while it also reflects CEB’s steady efforts to restore renewable energy dominance in the national grid. 

He attributed the achievement to favourable weather conditions, continued investments in solar, wind and small hydro projects and enhanced grid integration that have been present in the country over the past few months.

The CEB spokesman pointed out that Sri Lanka was moving towards its national target of achieving 70% renewable energy generation yearly by 2030. (Newswire)

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The Ministry of Energy’s five-year renewable energy development plan, “Green Energy Acceleration Plan 2025-2030”, was launched under the patronage of Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya in Colombo on Thursday (27 Feb).

According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the plan outlines key strategies for identifying and implementing renewable energy methods and digital innovations, ensuring their efficient and environmentally sustainable use. 

It also highlights the economic benefits of renewable energy and its potential to strengthen the country’s financial stability.

Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya’s full speech at the launch event:

It is a pleasure to address you on this significant occasion of launching the Action Plan on Renewable Energy Management. We are not just here to launch this project; we are here to transform our country into an energy powerhouse for the future. The Ceylon Electricity Board and the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority have taken the lead in steering Sri Lanka towards sustainable energy solutions.

I am pleased that the Ministry of Energy has introduced a valuable five-year action plan, the Green Energy Acceleration Plan 2025-2030. This initiative will promote sustainable energy consumption, identify renewable energy sources, and provide a comprehensive understanding of energy conservation and storage methods.

The primary objective of this plan is to reduce electricity demand and lower the initial cost of electricity in Sri Lanka by identifying and promoting the use of renewable energy sources.

Our goal is to expand renewable energy production over the next five years and provide affordable electricity to all Sri Lankans. We aim to reform our energy acts in three key areas. 

First, we will ensure the provision of affordable and reliable energy through renewable sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower while minimizing carbon emissions. Second, we will focus on educating the public on the significance of renewable energy and digital technologies and their role in accessing modern and reliable energy. Third, we will introduce advanced energy conversion methods to modernize the energy sector, aligning Sri Lanka with global advancements in the field.

This is not just a plan; it is a roadmap for the next five years. It encompasses various aspects, including the identification and development of energy sources, public awareness initiatives, implementation timelines, allocated funding, and necessary legal frameworks. 

To ensure the success of this project, it is essential to leverage both local and international partnerships. Let us work together to meet the energy needs of all Sri Lankans using renewable energy solutions. (Newswire)

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The adverse effects of climate change, coupled with the long-drawn impacts of the socio-economic crisis have had devastating effects on communities across Sri Lanka.  

The rural economy is reliant on natural resources and has shown increasing frailty due to rampant inflation, increasing import prices, and the unpredictability of supply chains. 

With the increasing cost of living, energy sources continue to be unaffordable to many low-income households in rural Sri Lanka, prompting these families back into unsafe alternative energy options which cause indoor air pollution, premature deaths, and an increase in acute and chronic diseases. 

As part of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)’s Climate Promise initiative with funding from the Government of Japan through Japan Supplementary Budget (JSB) Phase 1, the project entitled ‘Enhancing Food and Energy Security through the Promotion of Renewable Energy for Wider Uptake among Vulnerable Smallholder Farmers in Sri Lanka’ was implemented in the North-Western and Eastern Provinces. 

In Phase 2, the ‘Enhancing Rural Resilience in Sri Lanka through Energy Efficiency & the Adoption of Renewable Energy for a Just Transition to Net-Zero Pathways’ project is being implemented in the Northern Province of Sri Lanka. 

In a recent visit to the Northern and Eastern Provinces, the Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, Akio ISOMATA, together with the Resident Representative of UNDP in Sri Lanka, Azusa KUBOTA, engaged in an observation visit to selected project sites, along with key representatives from local governments including Mr. Nadaraja Thamilchelvan, Deputy Chief Secretary, Eastern Province; Dr. Raj Gnanasegar, Director-Planning, Eastern Province; and Mr. A. Umamaheshwaran, District Secretary, Mullaitivu District.   

Commenting on the visits, Ambassador ISOMATA noted, “These projects are significant as they try to achieve human security of individuals as well as energy security of the society by meeting energy needs of the local communities through energy efficiency and renewable energy technology. Assistance to the Northern and Eastern Provinces continues to be an important pillar of Japan’s development assistance to Sri Lanka. Japan is committed to working together with all stakeholders, also taking into account the recently launched initiative of the new government ’Clean Sri Lanka.”

During the visit to the Eastern Province, the high-level delegation saw the direct impacts in locations including the District Agriculture Training Centre in Uppuweli, Trincomalee, which was supported with a 10kW solar PV system and supports nearly 10,000 individuals- playing a crucial role in equipping smallholder farmers, women, youth, and government officials with essential agricultural knowledge and skills with an annual saving of approximately 1,700 USD.

In the Northern Province, Ambassador ISOMATA and Ms. KUBOTA along with Mr. A. Umamaheshwaran, District Secretary, Mullaitivu District visited the beneficiaries with home gardens in Puthukkudiyiruppu. 

The delegation directly engaged and interacted with beneficiaries who have been supported through the introduction of Renewable Energy Technologies. 75 biogas units, 100 improved cookstoves and 102 Solar PV systems will be provided to the community under the project and were symbolically handed over to the community during the visit. 

Highlighting the UNDP’s leadership through the initiative, Ms. Azusa KUBOTA, Resident Representative, UNDP in Sri Lanka added, “For many families in this area, energy access is not just a challenge—it’s a barrier to opportunity. High energy costs limit the potential to thrive socially and economically. By providing solar, biogas, and improved cookstoves to the community through the UNDP Climate Promise Initiative, funded by the Government of Japan, we enhance livelihoods and narrow the energy divide for rural farming communities. We are grateful for the opportunities provided by the Government and People of Japan to bring new technologies to the communities.”

The completed JSB-funded Phase 1 project supported the agricultural sector facing the shortage of power and energy, enhancing food and energy security through the utilization of renewable energy, with funding amounting to 1 million USD. The ongoing JSB-funded Phase 2 project has worked to strengthen the human and energy security of climate-vulnerable communities, particularly women, youth and rural entrepreneurs, while accelerating the uptake of renewable energy technologies, for domestic, Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and public service energy requirements, setting a foundation for a just transition to net-zero pathways and sustainable development, with funding amounting to almost 328 thousand USD. (Newswire)

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During a global renewable energy investors’ meet, Modi said India is striving for complete made in India solutions and creating many possibilities, which is truly a guarantee of expansion and better returns.

“India’s renewable energy demand is rising and the government is making new policies to support it,” the PM said, adding that efforts are being made for ‘Make in India’ in the sector and the growth in the segment presents a good opportunity for the same.

When the International Energy Agency (IEA) stated in its latest report that the global energy sector’s transformation to achieve COP28 targets is ‘feasible’, India’s push toward self-reliance and sustainability has received a significant boost through the “Make in India” initiative, particularly in the renewable energy sector.

As the world shifts towards greener, more sustainable energy sources, India is leveraging this initiative to become a leader in the renewable energy equipment market, thereby driving economic growth and environmental progress.

India, the third-largest energy consumer globally, faces immense challenges in balancing rapid industrialization with environmental sustainability.

With growing concerns over climate change and air pollution, renewable energy offers a solution that addresses both economic and environmental needs.

The country has set ambitious targets, such as reaching 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.

This requires significant investment in renewable energy infrastructure, including solar panels, wind turbines, batteries, and energy storage systems.

The Make in India initiative aims to enhance domestic manufacturing and reduce dependence on imports, particularly in key sectors like renewable energy.

The initiative encourages local production of solar photovoltaic (PV) modules, wind turbine components, and other renewable energy equipment, ensuring that India can meet its growing energy demand while boosting the economy.

As the Government of India’s “Make in India” initiative completes 10 years, it has emerged as a significant catalyst for driving investment, encouraging innovation, and creating world-class infrastructure, all aimed at transforming India into a global hub for manufacturing, design, and innovation.

The initiative remains crucial in strengthening the country’s manufacturing capabilities, particularly in the renewable energy sector.

A primary focus of the government is to support and incentivize domestic production in this field.

With a well-established renewable energy equipment manufacturing industry, India is not only capable of meeting its domestic needs but is also poised to become a key exporter, solidifying its position as a major player in the global renewable energy market.

According to the India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF), a Trust established by the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry’s Department of Commerce, India’s renewable energy sector is undergoing a significant transformation as the nation works toward its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.

Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi wrote on X (formerly Twitter) post, “India’s renewable energy sector has contributed immensely to the #10YearsOfMakeInIndia. From PLI to VGF, we are extending all possible support to our domestic industries. We are committed to establishing India as a major global player in the complete value chain of clean energy solutions.”

The Indian government has implemented several initiatives to promote domestic manufacturing of renewable energy equipment, including solar PV modules, cells, and key upstream components like ingots, wafers, and polysilicon.

These efforts extend to the production of wind turbines, electrolysers for green hydrogen, and battery energy storage systems for utility-scale electricity storage.

The government’s approach includes financial, fiscal, and policy measures to strengthen local manufacturing.

One of the key financial incentives is the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, which supports the establishment of fully or partially integrated solar PV module manufacturing units, as well as upstream component production.

Other measures include Viability Gap Funding (VGF) for stationary battery storage projects and incentives for manufacturing electrolysers and green hydrogen under the National Green Hydrogen Mission.

On the fiscal side, the government provides concessional customs duties for inputs needed in domestic production and waives import duties on capital goods essential for solar PV cell and module manufacturing.

Additionally, basic customs duties have been imposed on imports of solar PV modules, cells, and inverters to encourage local production.

Additionally, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has rolled out several policy initiatives, including the Domestic Content Requirement (DCR) in schemes like PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, PM-KUSUM, and CPSU Scheme Phase-II, all of which offer government subsidies.

Other policies include linking PLI benefits to local value addition, issuing Quality Control Orders for solar equipment, and maintaining approved lists of models and manufacturers for solar and wind technologies.

According to officials in the ministry, solar PV manufacturing has been a major focus of the government’s efforts to make India self-reliant (Atmanirbhar) in this sector and establish itself as a key player in the global market.

The Rs. 24,000 crores allocated to the PLI Scheme for High-Efficiency Solar PV Modules reflects this commitment, as per reports.

Other policy measures, such as basic customs duties and domestic content requirements, further support the goal of boosting domestic manufacturing.

Since 2014, India’s installed solar PV module manufacturing capacity has grown from 2.3 GW to around 67 GW, largely due to initiatives under the ambitious “Make in India” campaign, which was launched by PM Modi in September, 2014.

This growth allows India to meet its domestic solar energy demands while expanding its presence in the global market, reports said.

In just the past 3.5 years, the country’s annual solar PV module production capacity has surged from 8 GW in 2021 to 67 GW.

Moreover, over 48 GW of fully or partially integrated solar PV manufacturing projects are underway as part of the solar PLI scheme.

These projects are expected to attract investments of around Rs. 1.1 lakh crore (1.1 trillion) and create approximately 45,000 direct jobs, reports said.

The scheme will also bring advanced solar PV technology to India, reducing the country’s dependence on imports.

With continued government support and the PLI scheme, India is on track to reach an annual production capacity of 100 GW of solar modules by 2026, which will not only fulfil domestic demand but also help India generate foreign exchange through exports, according to reports.

The Make in India initiative is fuelling a boom in renewable energy equipment manufacturing, positioning India as a global player in the green energy sector.

With strong government support, growing investments, and a clear focus on sustainability, India is well on its way to becoming not only energy-independent but also a key exporter of renewable energy technology.

The road ahead may be challenging, but the “Make in India” initiative is a vital step toward a sustainable and prosperous future, according to experts. (Vietnam Times)

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The United States of America has commended Sri Lanka’s commitment to 70% renewable energy by 2030 and its proactive role in global climate initiatives.

Taking to ‘X’, US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung said a discussion was held on ongoing US support, including the United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) work on power sector reforms.

She further said the discussion also focused on potential collaborations with the world’s largest museum, Smithsonian Institution to protect Sri Lanka’s unique natural resources. 

“The US remains a steadfast partner, providing the latest knowledge, technology, and resources to help Sri Lanka tackle environmental challenges and build a greener, more resilient future,” she added. 

US Ambassador Julie Chung added that the discussion was held with Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister Ali Sabry, Presidential Advisor on Climate Change Ruwan Wijewardena, and US State Department Acting Assistant Secretary Jennifer Littlejohn. (Newswire)

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Cabinet approval has been granted to implement the Power Wheeling Facility only for new renewable energy projects in Sri Lanka. 

Power Wheeling Facility is an approach that allows for collective use of the power grid, consisting of power transmission and distribution systems to deliver power to a location where power is needed. 

Power Wheeling Facility enables the customer to utilize an existing electricity supply from another location using the existing grid, subject to payment of a fee, reducing costs effectively. 

The government points out that as there is currently no legal provision to implement that system in Sri Lanka, a committee was appointed to conduct a detailed study and provide recommendations regarding that facility. 

Accordingly, the Cabinet approved the proposal presented by the Minister of Power and Energy based on the recommendations of the committee to implement this facility only for new renewable energy projects. (Newswire)

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