Sri Lanka unveils vision for digitalisation and energy transformation

Deputy Minister of Digital Economy Eranga Weeraratne 

• Government’s bold strategy to unlock economic and technological potential

The Government of Sri Lanka has unveiled an ambitious vision to transform the nation into a digitally empowered economy, integrating energy and technology to drive sustainable development and economic prosperity. This comprehensive initiative aims to position Sri Lanka as a globally competitive nation by leveraging digitalisation and renewable energy solutions to foster a more inclusive and thriving economy.

Government officials emphasised that this transformation is not merely a matter of convenience but a fundamental shift in how Sri Lankans live, work, and interact with technology. The strategy is built around three key pillars: Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), Digital Literacy and Inclusion, and Digital Governance and E-Services.

A strong digital public infrastructure is the foundation of Sri Lanka’s journey toward a digital economy. To achieve this, the Government has committed to significant investments in high-speed broadband, cloud computing, and data centres. These enhancements will ensure that all citizens have access to fast, secure, and affordable digital services, creating a technology-driven economy where businesses and individuals can thrive in an interconnected world. Beyond infrastructure, the Government is prioritising Digital Literacy and Inclusion to bridge the digital divide between urban and rural areas. New policy incentives and training programs will equip citizens with the necessary skills to participate in the digital economy. Deputy Minister of Digital Economy Eranga Weeraratne emphasised the importance of ensuring that every Sri Lankan, regardless of location, has access to digital opportunities. “By empowering people through digital literacy and essential resources, we are enabling them to innovate and power the economic growth of the nation,” he stated.

A key component of this initiative is Digital Governance and E-Services, which aims to modernise public services. The government will introduce digital platforms to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accessibility in public administration. These platforms will enable seamless interaction between citizens and Government services, reducing bureaucracy and improving overall service delivery.

Recognising the interdependence of digitalisation and energy, the Ministry of Power and Energy is collaborating with the Ministry of Digital Economy to develop sustainable energy systems as part of this transformation. The focus is on developing smart grids, implementing renewable energy technologies, and adopting innovative energy storage solutions to meet growing energy demands. These measures are essential for powering smart cities, electric mobility, and emerging digital industries. The Government is also leveraging the Ceylon Electricity Board’s (CEB) infrastructure—such as fibre-optic cables and utility poles—to expand broadband penetration and ensure nationwide digital inclusion.

Under the Digital Economy Master Plan, the Government has set strategic targets to be achieved by 2030, including expanding broadband coverage to underserved and rural communities, integrating smart technologies into public infrastructure and services, and encouraging private sector investment in digital and energy technologies. This transformation aligns with Industry 4.0, where digitalisation extends beyond technology to revolutionise industries, governance, and everyday life.

Government officials stressed that this vision requires collaboration beyond the public sector. The private sector, academia, and citizens must work together to drive innovation and develop an energy infrastructure capable of supporting technological advancements. Minister Weeraratne highlighted the significance of collaboration, stating, “The private sector’s role in developing energy-efficient technologies and smart solutions is vital. We aspire to create a smart, green economy fuelled by renewable energy and digital technologies. Working together with all Sri Lankans, we can build a future in which technology and energy converge to make it possible for every Sri Lankan, whether in Colombo or in the remotest village.”

As Sri Lanka stands at a pivotal moment, the Government is confident that strategic investments in digitalisation and energy will unlock the nation’s full potential. By integrating these two critical sectors, Sri Lanka aims to emerge as a regional leader in digital transformation, driving economic growth while prioritising environmental sustainability. With this bold vision in motion, Sri Lanka is accelerating toward an innovation-driven, future-focused economy, ready to compete on the global stage.