A landmark hybrid renewable energy project is set to transform the energy landscape of the northern islands of Delft Island, Nainativu and Analativu, offering a long-awaited shift from diesel dependency to a cleaner, more reliable power system.

Funded through a USD 10.995 million grant from the India to Sri Lanka, the project marks a decisive step toward energy security and sustainability in some of the country’s most underserved regions.

At its core is an integrated hybrid system combining wind, solar, battery storage and standby diesel capacity—ensuring uninterrupted electricity while significantly reducing environmental impact.

The system includes 530 kW of wind power, 1,700 kW of solar generation, 2,400 kWh of battery storage, and 2,500 kW of backup diesel capacity, designed to deliver stable power to communities that have long struggled with inconsistent supply.

The Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract has been awarded to U Solar Energy Pvt Ltd, a Bangalore-based firm undertaking its first international project.

Despite the logistical and operational complexities of working across three remote islands simultaneously, the project has advanced steadily and is now nearing commissioning.

A key driver behind this project has been the role of EFL Global, which was tasked with handling the highly complex logistics operation required to move sensitive and oversised renewable energy equipment across challenging terrain and sea routes.

From the outset, EFL adopted a tailored, engineering-led logistics model, departing from conventional approaches. The strategy, guided by Director Project Logistics and Finance Fazul Ansar, focused on precise planning, coordinated multimodal transport, and customized handling solutions to ensure seamless delivery.

On-ground execution, led by Head of Operations Ronald Figarado, involved adaptive strategies including temporary handling infrastructure, specialized lifting techniques, and carefully sequenced delivery schedules to suit each island’s unique conditions.

Crucially, the effort was supported by the Sri Lanka Navy, particularly the Northern Naval Command, which facilitated the safe transport of cargo between the islands—highlighting the importance of coordinated national support in executing large-scale infrastructure projects in remote locations.

EFL Head of Project Logistics Mohamed Niyas said the project reflected a commitment to delivering beyond expectations despite the inherent challenges.

“This was not a conventional logistics operation. Every aspect required careful planning and coordination, especially given the geographical and environmental constraints. Our focus was on anticipating challenges and ensuring that each phase of the project moved forward without disruption,” Niyas told The Sunday Island.

He added that the successful delivery of all project components to the respective sites underscored the strength of collaboration among stakeholders, including U Solar, the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority, the Indian High Commission, and the Ministry of Power and Energy.

The project has also drawn high-level attention, with the Minister of Power and Energy visiting the islands to review progress—signalling its national importance in advancing renewable energy adoption.

Beyond infrastructure, the initiative is expected to deliver tangible socio-economic benefits by providing reliable electricity to island communities, enabling improved livelihoods, education, and local enterprise.

As the project approaches completion, it stands as a model of how technical innovation, strategic logistics, and institutional collaboration can converge to deliver sustainable development. For the residents of Delft, Nainativu and Analativu, it represents not just power—but a pathway to a more resilient and sustainable future.

By Ifham Nizam