• SHPDA appeals to Min. of Energy to intervene

The Ministry of Energy stated that a decision regarding the Ceylon Electricity Board’s (CEB) directive to temporarily shut down several small hydropower plants, effective since 11 April, will only be taken after a comprehensive study, and that until then, the ministry will not intervene in the matter.

This response came following an appeal by the Small Hydro Power Developers Association of Sri Lanka (SHPDA) to the Minister of Energy to intervene and withdraw the directive to shut down several small hydropower plants across the island.

Speaking to The Daily Morning yesterday (16), the Secretary to the Ministry, Dr. Udayanga Hemapala said that a decision would be taken following a detailed study of the matter. However, he stated that no formal request has been submitted to the ministry regarding this issue. "We don’t know whether any request has been made as of now. To my knowledge, nothing has been sent. First, we need to examine the grounds of the issue and the basis for the said decision. Then, we can look into the allegations raised by the developers. We should consider both sides. However, a decision will be made after a comprehensive study. No decision has been taken so far to revoke the CEB’s directive," he said.

Issuing a statement last week on behalf of the developers, SHPDA President Thusitha Peiris said that the decision made under the pretext of “stabilising the grid” during the festive season is a serious blow to Sri Lanka’s power sector and a direct threat to the nation’s energy security.

However, in response to this claim, the CEB has reportedly stated that the decision to shut down the power plants was made due to the low demand for electricity during the New Year period, as factories, businesses, and other office premises remain closed.