Sarvodaya Development Finance Supports SMEs to Invest in Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure

Sarvodaya Development Finance PLC (SDF) has taken steps to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs interested in investing in Sri Lanka's growing electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure sector through its green financing programme.

The initiative forms part of the company's ongoing commitment to sustainable development and aims to explore suitable financial facilities for SMEs interested in establishing and operating electric vehicle charging stations.

Through this programme, SDF expects to expand EV charging facilities across the country while creating new business opportunities for entrepreneurs in the emerging sector. The initiative also seeks to encourage the business community to contribute towards environmentally sustainable economic development.

As part of this effort, SDF has introduced a new fast-charging facility for electric vehicles at its head office premises in Colombo 08, located along Dr. Danister De Silva Mawatha.

The charging services are provided by Vdrive, a subsidiary of Vidullanka PLC. Operating 24 hours a day, the facility is expected to offer greater convenience to EV owners by allowing them to access charging services at any time. It is also expected to benefit motorists travelling along Baseline Road, which provides access to the expressway network.

The charging station is supported by a 70-kilowatt solar power system, which also helps meet the daily electricity requirements of SDF's head office. The initiative demonstrates how renewable energy can be incorporated into business operations while supporting environmentally friendly transportation.

Commenting on the programme, Sarvodaya Development Finance PLC Chief Executive Officer Nilantha Jayanetti said Sri Lanka's transition towards a green economy was creating new business opportunities for SMEs and entrepreneurs.

He said the company's objective was to broaden access to sustainable investment opportunities by supporting businesses interested in entering emerging sectors such as electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

He added that the programme was expected to encourage new entrepreneurs, increase the use of renewable energy and provide communities across the country with opportunities to contribute towards environmentally responsible development.

SDF plans to extend its support beyond Colombo and surrounding areas, exploring financial solutions suited to SMEs to encourage private-sector investment in EV charging infrastructure throughout Sri Lanka.

The company aims to contribute towards building a nationwide charging network that will allow electric vehicle owners to access charging facilities more conveniently across different parts of the country.

The initiative also aligns with SDF's broader objectives of strengthening SMEs, supporting regional economic development and expanding access to financial services.