A senior electrical engineers attached to the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) have warned that unresolved structural and policy issues within the power sector could threaten the long-term stability of the national grid, urging authorities to act swiftly to address mounting technical and administrative concerns.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, they said the electricity network was operating under increasing strain due to delayed infrastructure upgrades, financial constraints, and growing demand.

“The national grid is not something that can be managed casually. It requires systematic planning, preventive maintenance, and timely investment. If these are compromised, the risk to system stability increases,” the engineers said.

They noted that several transmission and substation modernisation projects were behind schedule, while ageing thermal plants continued to shoulder a significant portion of the country’s base load demand.

“Engineers are committed to ensuring an uninterrupted supply. But professional expertise must be respected in decision-making. Technical matters cannot be subjected to short-term political considerations,” the engineers added.

Meanwhile, the powerful Ceylon Electricity Board Engineers’ Union (CEBEU) echoed similar concerns, warning that failure to address long standing professional and structural issues could have serious consequences for the power sector.

In a statement, the CEBEU has said that engineers have repeatedly called for reforms that safeguard the integrity of the utility and ensure that operational decisions remain grounded in technical evaluation.

“The electricity sector is a critical national asset. Any attempt to weaken institutional safeguards or bypass professional consultation will directly impact service reliability and long-term sustainability,” the union said.

The CEBEU has stressed the importance of transparent engagement between policymakers and technical personnel, noting that morale among engineers could be affected if their concerns continue to go unheard.

Industry analysts point out that the power sector plays a central role in Sri Lanka’s economic recovery efforts, particularly as the country seeks to expand industrial activity and attract investment. Stability in electricity supply remains a key determinant of business confidence.

The senior engineer stressed d that the objective of raising concerns is not confrontation but preservation of the grid’s integrity.

“Our responsibility is to the public. Electricity powers hospitals, industries, and homes. Safeguarding the system is a national duty,” he said.

With tensions simmering within the sector, stakeholders say meaningful dialogue between authorities, engineers, and trade unions will be crucial in ensuring that Sri Lanka’s power infrastructure remains resilient in the face of growing challenges.

By Ifham Nizam