A step toward greater transparency in mega projects

Monday, 27 January 2025 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

In a promising development for transparency and accountability, the Government has taken a crucial step in re-evaluating the energy projects in Mannar and Pooneryn proposed by the Adani Group. These projects, initially granted under a non-transparent unsolicited proposal, raised significant concerns over the lack of proper scrutiny and the terms that could potentially burden the Sri Lankan taxpayers for years to come. Adani Green Energy won the approval in February 2023 to invest $ 442 million and develop the 484 megawatts wind power plants.

It is no secret that Adani Group, an Indian multinational, has close ties with influential political circles, including the Indian government. While such connections might bring diplomatic benefits in some cases, they should never overshadow the national interest or undermine the integrity of decision-making processes. In this instance, the proposed energy purchase rates and substantial tax concessions associated with these projects would have resulted in a considerable financial drain on the Sri Lankan taxpayer, without the necessary checks and balances.

The need for renewable energy in Sri Lanka is undeniably urgent and critical for our future, but this necessity should never come at the cost of transparent governance. Mega projects, particularly in the energy sector, must be subject to rigorous scrutiny and should be awarded based on merit, competitiveness, and transparency. The Government’s decision to review these projects is a step in the right direction, as it creates an opportunity to reconsider the terms and seek the best possible deal for the people of Sri Lanka.

The logical and fair way forward is to call for competitive bidding for these energy projects. Adani, along with any other interested parties, should be allowed to submit proposals that are evaluated impartially through the tender system. This will ensure that the projects are awarded to the best-qualified companies based on both cost-effectiveness and technical capability, rather than political influence or diplomatic pressure.

We must also recognise that the decision-making process for such crucial projects should remain free from external political interference. Diplomatic considerations, while important, should not dictate the direction of our energy future. Sri Lanka’s sovereignty and the welfare of its citizens must take precedence. It is imperative that decisions are made in an open, accountable manner, where the long-term benefits of the people outweigh any short-term political advantage.

While the imperative for renewable energy development is clear, it is equally crucial that we safeguard transparency and fairness in how we approach such projects. Let us prioritise good governance and ensure that the decisions made today do not burden our future generations. Only through a competitive, transparent bidding process can we be assured that the best outcomes will be achieved for the people of Sri Lanka.