Electricity tariff reduction likely in February: State Minister

Saturday, 6 January 2024 00:17 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Power and Energy State Minister

Indika Anuruddha

Power and Energy State Minister Indika Anuruddha confirms submission of necessary data for tariff reduction to PUCSL
Outlines new generation plan, targeting procurement of nearly 600 MWs of electricity from renewable sources in 2024
Says generation plan aims to achieve 70% of electricity from renewable sources, incorporating projects in Mannar, Pooneryn and Hambantota
Affirms new employee recruitment for CEB is halted, with shift towards incentives and promotions based on performance

Power and Energy State Minister Indika Anuruddha declared that a downward revision of electricity tariffs is on the horizon, with expectations of implementation by the first week of February.

In a press conference held at the Presidential Media Centre (PMC), he noted that necessary data to facilitate this tariff reduction has already been submitted to the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL).

“The supporting data to slash electricity tariffs has been submitted to the PUCSL. We hope tariff reduction can be expected either by the end of this month or in the first week of February,” he added.

The State Minister outlined a comprehensive new generation plan aimed at procuring nearly 600 MWs of electricity from renewable sources in 2024.

“To reduce electricity bills, the Ministry is dedicated to producing renewable energy using hydro, solar, and wind power,” he added.

Reflecting on the progress made in 2023, Anuruddha highlighted the strides taken in the power sector, including amendments to the existing Electricity Act and the introduction of a new Act prioritising high-quality consumer service. The new legislation incorporates provisions related to consumer protection and regulation.

With a commitment to increasing the share of renewable energy in power generation, the generation plan sets an ambitious target of achieving 70% of electricity from renewable sources. “Projects in Mannar, Pooneryn, and Hambantota, are incorporated into the plan, with a specific focus on expediting projects below 10 MW, especially in the construction of solar panels,” he said.

To align with the overarching goals for 2024, new employee recruitment for the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) has been halted. He said the emphasis is now on incentives and promotions based on performance, while pensions and provident funds for existing employees will remain unchanged.

Anuruddha underscored the significance of these initiatives, marking a pivotal year for the country’s energy sector.