Sri Lanka has taken a major step towards its clean energy future with the launch of an Integrated National Financing Framework (INFF) for the energy sector and Just Energy Transition (JET) Study.
The two initiatives were unveiled at the 'Renewable Hydrogen Stakeholder Consultation Workshop: From Strategy to Actions', convened by the Ministry of Energy with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on 18 September 2025.
The event brought together policymakers, energy experts, financiers, and international partners at Hilton Colombo Residences.
Call for urgency
Secratary to the Energy Ministry Prof. Udayanga Hemapala said Sri Lanka had made progress towards its 70% renewable energy target, with solar capacity nearing 2,000 MW, but warned that energy security, industrial decarbonisation, and clean transport remained unresolved challenges.
“Green hydrogen is not just a fuel; it is a bridge that connects multiple parts of the energy system,” he said, urging participants to refine the draft policy so Sri Lanka could not only consume but also export clean energy.
Ministerial vision
Energy Minister Eng. Kumara Jayakody described hydrogen as vital for the future energy mix.
“A basic step in this process is to prepare a draft policy on it. This consultation workshop with stakeholders is a vital step in drafting that policy,” he said, noting that transmission, storage, and grid integration will be prioritised.
UNDP backing
UNDP Deputy Resident Representative Marina Ten called the consultation “a timely and essential step” for an equitable transition. She emphasised that the INFF and JET would form the cornerstones of a just and inclusive energy strategy.
“Renewable hydrogen is increasingly recognised worldwide as a game-changer for achieving carbon neutrality, supporting energy security, and driving new industries and jobs,” she said.
Science and strategy
Prof. Upul Wijayantha of Cranfield University, presenting the draft policy, argued that hydrogen offered both decarbonisationand economic sovereignty, including opportunities in biohydrogen from waste. He cautioned that Sri Lanka faced fierce global competition for investment.
“This is a truly dynamic sector,” he said. “If you take your eyes off for even a week, the situation has changed.”
Panel discussions
Experts stressed careful siting of hydrogen projects, phased development from pilots to commercial scale, and strict safety standards. International case studies underscored the need for Sri Lanka to adapt quickly and find niches where its renewable potential and location provide an edge.
Later sessions highlighted safety regulation, investor confidence, and financing. Representatives from Arinma Power, Kimara ME FZE, HBA Future Energy, the Federation of Renewable Energy Developers, the World Bank, and the Asian Development Bank all underlined the need for regulatory clarity and blended finance to build early bankable projects.
About the writer:
Eng. Prasadini Wickremesinghe is a renewable energy advocate, recognised by the Women Energize Women campaign of Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy as a key figure driving gender equality in Sri Lanka’s energy transition.