Sri Lanka to harness offshore wind power via private sector investments

• Cabinet nod to increase contribution of large-scale renewable energy projects
• Feasibility study by World Bank identifies North, West and South-East regions as prime locations

Sri Lanka is poised to develop the country’s offshore wind potential in stages through private sector investments, with the goal of achieving economies of scale.

Following a comprehensive feasibility study conducted by World Bank consultants, the Cabinet of Ministers at its meeting on Monday approved increasing the contribution of large-scale renewable energy in Sri Lanka. 

The study identified the North, West and South-East regions of the country as prime locations with high potential for generating electricity through large-scale offshore wind power plants.

“The decision marks a significant step forward in Sri Lanka’s efforts to diversify its energy sources and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. By tapping into offshore wind power, the country aims to enhance its renewable energy capacity and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change,” the Cabinet Co-Spokesman and Minister Bandula Gunawardena said at the post Cabinet meeting media briefing yesterday.

He said the decision to pursue offshore wind power aligns with Sri Lanka’s broader commitment to transitioning towards a greener and more sustainable energy sector. 

The proposal to this effect submitted by the Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.