Minister of Power and Energy Kumara Jayakody told Parliament that emergency coal purchases approved by the Cabinet will not result in losses to the country, countering Opposition claims.

He said only 300,000 metric tonnes of coal will be procured under emergency arrangements, which is sufficient to operate one power plant for about a month.

The Minister explained that approval was sought to prevent a potential energy crisis after the first and third coal shipments were found to be below contractual specifications, while reports on the fourth and fifth shipments are still pending.

He stressed that if substandard coal continues to be supplied, the government will not hesitate to default the supplier.

Opposition MP Ajith P. Perera warned that emergency purchases at current global prices could increase costs. Responding, the Minister said all approvals, including from the National Procurement Commission, were obtained as a precautionary measure and reiterated that the limited quantity involved would not cause financial losses.