WindForce-led consortia to put up $ 152 m worth largest private sector renewable energy project

From left: CEB Chief Engineer Dulan Lakshitha, DGM Renewable Energy Kamal Perera, CEB Chairman N.S. Ilangakoon, CEB GM Rohan Seneviratne, Lakdhanavi Chief Executive Officer M.J.M.N. Marikkar, WindForce Managing Director Manjula Perera, WindForce Chief Executive Officer Lasith Wimalasena, and The Blue Circle Senura Fonseka 

WindForce PLC, in collaboration with Lakdhanavi Ltd., and The Blue Circle Ltd., is set to undertake Sri Lanka’s largest private-sector renewable energy project. 

This is a 100 MW solar power plant with a transmission facility to be set up in Siyambaladuwa, Monaragala District. 

With a total investment of $ 152 million, this landmark venture represents a significant milestone in the country’s transition towards clean energy. Scheduled for completion before the end of 2025, the project will not only enhance WindForce’s installed capacity by nearly 30% but also showcase the expertise and commitment of all consortium partners involved.

The formidable consortium leading this project comprises WindForce, a renowned leader in the renewable energy sector, Lakdhanavi Ltd., the leading independent power producer in Sri Lanka, and The Blue Circle Ltd., a distinguished renewable energy company based in Singapore. The collective experience, expertise, and dedication of these industry leaders make them the perfect fit for successfully delivering this ground-breaking initiative.

The magnitude of this project is unprecedented. It stands as the largest renewable energy endeavour ever awarded to the private sector by the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB). This significant accomplishment reinforces WindForce’s position as a key player in Sri Lanka’s renewable energy landscape. Moreover, this project breaks new ground by being awarded as a single package, incorporating a 100 MW Solar Power Plant, 12 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), 2x63.5MVA, 132/33kV Grid Substation, and a 27 km, 132/33kV transmission line. This holistic and integrated approach ensures the seamless and efficient distribution of clean energy throughout the region.

Setting a new standard in Sri Lanka’s renewable energy sector, the project will include the integration of a BESS with the solar plant. This pioneering move will mark the first time such advanced energy storage technology is utilised in the country. This forward-thinking approach demonstrates the consortium’s commitment to driving innovation and sustainability in Sri Lanka’s energy landscape.

The successful and timely implementation of this project owes much to the unwavering support of the Sri Lankan Government. The availability of all required land allocations and approvals as a ready-to-built project reflects the Government’s commitment to facilitating and expediting renewable energy projects. This collaboration between the private sector and the Government underlines Sri Lanka’s dedication to creating an enabling environment for sustainable development.

Considering the significance and scale of this project, the tariff structure will be dollar-pegged. This ensures a fair and sustainable return on investment for the consortium while providing consumers with a competitive and reliable electricity tariff. The dollar-pegged tariff exemplifies the consortium’s transparency and commitment to long-term viability, ensuring the project’s success and continuity.

With a comprehensive approach encompassing a solar plant, BESS, a grid substation, and a transmission line, this initiative showcases the consortium’s expertise and commitment to driving the country’s clean energy transition. With the project on track for completion by the end of 2025, Sri Lanka is poised to witness a remarkable leap towards a greener and more sustainable future.