• Queries whether CEB letter to the effect is a move to justify future emergency power purchases

The Electricity Consumers Association (ECA) has raised concerns over a letter issued by the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) that restricts solar power generation in several regions, questioning whether the move is aimed at draining reservoirs to justify emergency power purchases.

A letter dated 17 September, sent in relation to renewable energy projects intended to be connected to the Ampara, Monaragala, Mahiyanganaya, and Vavunathivu grid substations, and which was seen by The Daily Morning, states there is no available capacity at these points because of transmission line related limits. It adds that up to 10 megawatts (MW) could still be added, but only if the plants remain switched off during the main solar hours, which the CEB has listed as 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Speaking to The Daily Morning, ECA General Secretary Sanjeewa Dhammika said that at a time when President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and other Government representatives continue to say that they want to promote renewable energy, the CEB has asked producers to stop generating at the exact time the panels perform best. He also said the letter does not mention how long the restriction would last, meaning that producers would have to bear any losses arising from operating under this condition for an indefinite period.

“These types of decisions keep the country tied to fuel-based electricity. Certain officials linked to the energy sector, including key figures, stand to benefit when diesel generation continues and emergency power purchases are made. Once solar is reduced at midday, the system leans more heavily on hydropower later in the day, which drains reservoirs. Sri Lanka usually enters a dry spell from December to April, when reservoir levels drop further. When water is used up now, the authorities will later claim they have no choice but to buy emergency power,” he claimed.

Dhammika further charged that the individuals making these decisions are trying to hold back renewable energy and protect diesel interests. He called on the authorities, including the Energy Ministry, to explain why the CEB keeps placing restrictions on solar producers instead of improving the transmission system or finding a workable way to accommodate more renewable energy. He observed that since the current Government took office, no real progress has been made in the renewable energy sector.

The Energy Ministry Secretary and Acting CEB Chairperson, Prof. Udayanga Hemapala was not available for comment.