• Cite increased rains, hydropower generation

In the wake of the National System Operator (NSO) Private Limited seeking a 2.88 per cent increase in electricity tariffs for the fourth quarter (October-December) of this year (2026), electricity tariffs could instead be reduced by at least 10% due to the increased hydropower generation amid heavy rainfall and rapidly rising reservoir levels, the ECA stated.

Speaking to The Daily Morning,  Electricity Consumers' Association (ECA) General Secretary Sanjeewa Dhammika said that the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) had conducted a preliminary review of the NSO’s proposal and found that a smaller increase could be considered. “The PUCSL has observed that the proposed increase could be limited to around 1.46%. However, when we look at the data, we can say that electricity tariffs could be reduced by at least 10%." He further said that the country is receiving heavy rainfall, with water levels in reservoirs rising rapidly and several reservoirs spilling over. He said that this could allow the electricity companies to increase hydropower generation and reduce the reliance on more expensive sources of electricity, creating room for a tariff reduction. “Reservoirs are filling rapidly these days, and many are spilling over. This must also be taken into consideration when implementing the tariff revision.”

Energy Minister Anura Karunathilaka was unavailable for comment.

The NSO has reportedly requested PUCSL approval for a 2.88% tariff increase for the October to December quarter. The PUCSL has published its fourth-quarter tariff review on its official website, and PUCSL Director-General Damitha Kumarasinghe has confirmed that the proposal is undergoing review and that public consultations have commenced. The PUCSL’s preliminary assessment has indicated that the proposed increase could be reduced to approximately 1.46%, according to the published review.