Unilever Sri Lanka has unveiled a state-of-the-art rooftop solar power system at its food factory and Distribution Center in Sapugaskanda. This project represents another step towards Unilever’s aim to convert to 100% renewable energy sources across its sites globally.

The project combines 1,672 solar panels from the two facilities to produce a total of 970kW, with an 810Kva inverter to support it. This system is anticipated to generate an outstanding 1.25 million kWh of electricity annually, fulfilling 33% of the facilities’ energy needs. With this most recent installation, Unilever Sri Lanka’s overall solar capacity including that of the Horana factory has increased to 4MW, further supporting the country’s goal of generating 75% of the energy requirement from renewables by 2050.

Speaking on the occasion, Damith Abeyratne, Supply Chain Director, Unilever Sri Lanka said: “At Unilever Sri Lanka, sustainability is a priority. Our recent solar installations in Sapugaskanda are an important step in our efforts to lessen our impact on the environment and support the country’s renewable energy targets. This project serves as a reminder of the private sector’s vital role in contributing to form Sri Lanka’s sustainable future.”

Unilever has an approved science-based target to achieve a 100% reduction in absolute Scope 1 & 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030, against a 2015 baseline. Achieving net zero emissions throughout its value chain by 2039 is one of Unilever’s long-term ambitions. Focusing on pragmatic steps, sooner rather than later, the company has created a comprehensive Climate Transition Action Plan (CTAP) that applies globally, guiding its actions to reduce GHG emissions over the next few years.

The Digital Payments Promotion Campaign 2025 under the theme of “Shaping the Future through Digital Transactions” was launched by Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe, Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) on 9th January 2025, at the Magam Ruhunupura Administrative Complex in Hambantota. The campaign was organized by CBSL with the support of Mr. Bimal Indrajith De Silva, District Secretary of Hambantota, financial institutions and telecommunication service providers. The event was attended by a large number of public officials, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and the general public.

In his address, the Governor emphasized the critical role of modern technology and digital payments in driving the economic development of the country and uplifting the quality of life of the citizens. He highlighted the importance of popularising digital payments among all, with the involvement of government institutions, businesses and financial institutions. Addressing the gathering, Mr. Bimal Indrajith De Silva highlighted the need to simplify the processes and use of technology by the financial institutions to serve all segments of the society. Mr. J P R Karunaratne, Deputy Governor of CBSL stated that similar island-wide awareness campaigns would increase the financial inclusion in the remote areas of the country enabling all citizens to benefit from digital payments.

At this occasion, banks, finance companies, e-money service providers such as telecommunication companies, and mobile payment application providers, facilitated the registration of digital payment applications and offered guidance to the attendees on conveniently using their mobile phones to purchase goods from the vendors present at the venue using LANKAQR payment method, which is a fast, safe, less expensive and an easy way to make payments for their daily needs.

This awareness campaign is the first in a series of initiatives by CBSL, aimed at accelerating the adoption of digital payments island-wide, aligning with the broader strategy of the Government and CBSL to promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth through digitalisation. (CBSL)

People’s Leasing & Finance PLC, a leader in non-banking financial services, has announced the appointment of Prof. Ajantha Samarakoon as its new Chairman of the Board, with effect from 31st December 2024, subsequent to receiving approval from the Central Bank of Sri Lanka.

A distinguished academic and professional, Prof. Samarakoon brings a wealth of expertise and leadership to his new role, underpinned by an accomplished career spanning academia, industry, and public service. His appointment signals a fresh chapter for People’s Leasing & Finance, as the company continues to build on its reputation for innovation and excellence in the financial services sector.

Prof. Samarakoon also presently serves as a professor at the Department of Commerce and Financial Management of the Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies at the University of Kelaniya. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Special) Degree and a Master’s Degree from the same institution. He has also earned a PhD from the Faculty of Management and Economics at Tomas Bata University in the Czech Republic, supported by the prestigious Internationalisation Development Scholarship awarded by the Czech Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sports.