Cabinet approves to call proposals for 150-200 MW floating solar power plant in Samanalawewa reservoir

The Cabinet of Ministers approved to seek project proposals for the design and building of an innovative 150-200 MW solar power plant in the Samanalawewa reservoir. 

Upon careful evaluation, it has been determined that there is considerable untapped potential to implement solar power generation projects on the surface of reservoirs managed by the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) and the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority. 

It has been identified that the Samanalawewa reservoir, under the purview of the CEB, offers an optimal location for the construction of a floating solar photovoltaic power plant. 

A statement comprising weekly Cabinet Decisions issued by the Government Information Department noted that the proposed plant is slated to have an impressive capacity of approximately 150 to 200 megawatts, marking a substantial leap towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. 

The move is in association with the national procurement guidelines governing infrastructure facility projects. Recognising the pressing need for sustainable energy solutions, it has been acknowledged that generating solar electricity on the surface of reservoirs, through the construction of floating solar power plants, represents a fitting solution for countries with limited land availability. 

The initiative aligns with Sri Lanka’s broader efforts to transition towards renewable energy, reducing dependency on traditional fossil fuels. 

The proposal for this put forth by Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.