News
Energy expert Ralapanawa comes out swinging against proposed detrimental amendments to block small-scale renewable energy projects
By Ifham Nizam
Energy expert Dr. Vidura Ralapanawa has raised concerns over proposed amendments to Sri Lanka’s Electricity Act by the government, highlighting particularly two key changes that could significantly hinder the growth of small-scale renewable energy projects.
In his blog, he has stated that the proposed revision seeks to decrease the maximum capacity of renewable energy projects eligible for the Feed in Tariffs (FIT) mechanism from 10 megawatts (MW) to 1 MW.
Ralapanawa argues that this reduction would render the development of new mini-hydro and biomass projects unfeasible, as these technologies typically require capacities exceeding 1 MW to be economically viable. For wind energy, where individual turbines often have capacities between 3 to 4 MW, the proposed limit is particularly impractical.
Even for solar power projects, the inclusion of transmission line costs makes 1 MW installations financially unviable.
He points out that suggestions to locate such projects near substations are impractical due to land scarcity and high costs in those areas.
He emphasizes that the current 10 MW threshold has been instrumental in the success of various renewable energy projects in Sri Lanka, including utility-scale solar, wind, biomass, and mini-hydro developments. Reducing this limit could lead to increased transaction costs and implementation delays, as tendering small capacities becomes inefficient.
Another proposed change involves shifting the responsibility of setting tariffs, including FIT rates, from the PUCSL to the Ministry. Ralapanawa contends that this move is regressive, noting that in many jurisdictions, including India, tariff-setting is managed by independent regulatory bodies to ensure transparency and technical accuracy.
Drawing from his experience in the consultative process of FIT setting, Ralapanawa expresses concern that ministry-led tariff determinations have historically lacked the technical expertise necessary to establish economically viable rates. He cites instances where arbitrary pricing decisions were made without proper consideration of return on investment expectations or economic principles.
He warns that these amendments could deprive Sri Lankans of low-cost power in the future. Currently, FIT-based renewable energy procurement is the second-lowest cost power source in the country, after major hydroelectric projects. Additionally, FIT projects are contracted in Sri Lankan Rupees, providing a hedge against currency depreciation, unlike larger renewable projects contracted in U.S. dollars.
He also highlights the broader economic benefits of FIT-supported projects, which are typically developed by local entrepreneurs and small to medium-sized enterprises. These projects utilize local capital, generate significant employment opportunities, and ensure that financial benefits remain within the country, thereby contributing to a higher GDP multiplier effect.
He expressed disappointment that individuals known for their opposition to renewable energy initiatives were involved in drafting the proposed amendments.
He stressed that legislation should serve the nation’s interests and not be influenced by personal biases or ideologies.
Ralapanawa urges policymakers to reconsider these proposed changes, advocating for a legislative framework that supports the continued growth of renewable energy in Sri Lanka, ensuring energy security, economic development, and environmental sustainability.
As part of the official visit to London for the 43rd Commonwealth of Learning (COL) Board of Governors Meeting 2026, the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, held discussions with academic experts from the British Council on Wednesday [20 May 2026].
The discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in education, particularly in the areas of teacher training, English language programmes, education frameworks, and language acquisition skills.
The British Council shared international experience and highlighted its ongoing engagement in Sri Lanka, while expressing readiness to support the country through technical assistance, teacher development initiatives, and policy collaboration.
Discussions also included views on improving quality assurance, expanding research collaboration, and enhancing learning opportunities.
The Prime Minister appreciated the British Council’s continued engagement in Sri Lanka and reiterated the importance of deepening partnerships.
[Prime Minister’s Media Division’
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, who is currently on an official visit to the United Kingdom, met with members of the Sri Lankan community living in London on Wednesday [20th] and engaged in cordial discussions.
Despite the event being held on a weekday, it was notable that nearly one thousand Sri Lankans representing the Sinhala, Tamil, and Muslim communities attended with great enthusiasm.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that despite natural disasters and international crises, the present government has succeeded in stabilizing the country’s economy while providing relief to the people. She further noted that Sri Lanka’s political culture has now undergone a positive transformation that is irreversible.
Minister of Women and Child Affairs Saroja Paulraj, addressing the event, stated that a governance system has now been established in the country where all communities are treated equally and the benefits of economic development are shared fairly among all citizens.
Moving away from the traditional method of political gatherings, the event also provided an open platform for members of the Sri Lankan community to directly raise questions and express their views to the Prime Minister and the Minister.
Commenting on the organization of the event, the organizing committee stated that all expenses, including dinner, were borne by the participants themselves. The organizers further remarked that it is unsurprising that opposition groups, accustomed to organizing such events through the misuse of public funds, appear unsettled by this transparent process.
The occasion was attended by the Minister of Women and Child Affairs Saroja Paulraj and Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Nimal Senadheera.
[Prime Minister’s Media Division]
Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya currently undertaking an official visit to London, United Kingdom, to participate in the 43rd Commonwealth of Learning (COL) Board of Governors Meeting 2026 held a bilateral meeting with the Yvette Cooper MP, Foreign Secretary of the United Kingdom ON Wednesday [20]. The Prime Minister was accompanied by Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Nimal Senadheera, along with officials from the Sri Lankan High Commission.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister conveyed Sri Lanka’s appreciation to the United Kingdom for the support extended in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwa, including ongoing rebuilding and recovery assistance. The Prime Minister also commended the United Kingdom’s support in facilitating increased bilateral trade and exports for Sri Lanka.
The Prime Minister briefed the UK delegation on Sri Lanka’s recent economic developments and policy priorities, the Government’s commitment to advancing human rights and reconciliation, as well as Sri Lanka’s positive growth trajectory.
The two sides also exchanged views on current global geopolitical developments, challenges in the energy sector, and the importance of enhancing regional connectivity and long-term energy security.
Both sides also emphasised the importance of strengthening structured academic mobility frameworks while ensuring fairness, clarity, and integrity within migration systems.
They also reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two countries in areas of mutual interest.
[Prime Minister’s Media Division]
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