Sri Lanka launches first project in 300MW solar power programme

Sri Lanka has launched the first project under a programme aimed at adding 300 megawatts (MW) of solar power to the national electricity grid, as the country seeks to increase its reliance on renewable energy.

The first ground-mounted solar project, with a capacity of 3MW, was inaugurated in Veyangoda on Sunday by Ports, Civil Aviation and Energy Minister Anura Karunathilaka.

It is the first in a series of solar projects planned across the country with a combined capacity of 300MW.

The government says the programme is part of efforts to reduce Sri Lanka’s dependence on imported fossil fuels and increase the share of renewable energy in electricity generation. Private-sector participation is also being encouraged in selected projects.

The Veyangoda facility uses 640-watt bifacial solar panels, which are designed to generate electricity using sunlight reaching both sides of the panels.

According to government estimates, the project will generate about 6.35 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually for the national grid and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by about 4,340 tonnes a year.

Sri Lanka has set a target of meeting 70% of its energy requirements from renewable sources by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2040.

The government says upgrades to the national electricity grid are also being carried out to accommodate a greater proportion of renewable energy as new projects are brought online. (Newswire)

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