Kanchana forecasts greater electricity tariff reductions

Wednesday, 21 February 2024 00:26 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera

Opines proposal to reduce tariffs will be submitted today or tomorrow
Says extensive consultations with stakeholders were held, but Opposition MPs were absent
Considering suggestions by stakeholders Ministry directs CEB to postpone maintenance activities for three years

Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera reve-aled yesterday that the anticipated reduction in electricity tariffs for users is expected to be even greater than initially projected.

Speaking before the House, he announced that the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) is working to finalise a proposal on the revised electricity tariff system.

“This proposal is set to be submitted to the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL by Wednesday or Thursday of this week,” he added.

Minister Wijesekera also highlighted the extensive efforts undertaken to gather feedback and suggestions from various stakeholders.

“Despite invitations extended to the Opposition leader and members of Parliament from the opposition, their attendance at the discussions was notably absent. However, around 40 individuals, including representatives from universities, engineers and industry experts, actively participated in these crucial meetings,” he claimed.

Considering the inputs received and the outcomes of public consultations, he said the Ministry has instructed to postpone proposed maintenance activities by the CEB during this year.

“These maintenance works, originally scheduled for this year based on past operational estimates, will now be deferred to the next three years,” he added.