Overcoming opposition to renewable energy in Sri Lanka

By a Special Correspondent

Renewable Energy is a topic of paramount importance, not just in Sri Lanka but across the globe. Yet, there are naysayers and individuals with vested interests who wish to hinder progress and national energy security.

Recently,  Prof. Rohan Pethiyagoda, a former member of the ‘Viyath Maga’ who is now an advisor of the Opposition Leader, has raised concerns about the environmental impacts of certain renewable energy projects.

 On 20 March, Minister of Power and Energy Kanchana Wijesekera addressed some of the concerns raised by this member, which were presented by the leader of the opposition in parliament. The Minister reminded parliament that both local and international reports were followed when selecting the locations for the project in question.

 The Minister also presented multiple documents to parliament which showcased the rigor and process that went into ensuring these projects had minimal environmental impacts.

 He further emphasised to the parliament the existence of a publicly available document displaying the project locations in the Mannar area on a map. He encouraged anyone interested to verify the information against the allegations by accessing the document themselves.  Thorough environmental impact studies have been conducted and as a result, there will not be any adverse impacts on the communities in Mannar. Indeed, this project will not only improve but also elevate the communities, owing to the foreign exchange savings that the country will accrue as a result.

 In this particular scenario, it becomes imperative to delve into the underlying reasons for the resistance faced by renewable energy initiatives, which hold the potential to bolster Sri Lanka’s energy self-sufficiency. These accusations lack merit and cast doubt on the integrity of the scientific evaluations that informed the decision-making process for the project locations when proper assessments and processes were met. This prompts us to ponder: Why are these projects encountering such significant opposition despite their potential benefits?

 Elaborating on this query could reveal multifaceted factors contributing to the backlash. One possible reason could be entrenched interests in traditional energy sectors, such as fossil fuels, which may perceive renewable energy as a threat to their dominance and profitability.

 Our country is blessed with abundant natural resources, and can break free from the shackles of the tyranny of fossil fuel masters. Sri Lanka’s primary energy supply relies heavily on oil and coal, sources that contribute to the economic burden and environmental degradation. While our South Asian neighbours enjoy affordable energy, we are burdened with high energy costs, paying 2.5 to 3 times more for electricity than our regional counterparts. And this money is all going abroad to the fossil fuel exporting nations.

 The particular project in the cross-hair of naysayers could potentially change not just the energy landscape in the nation, but also aid in economic recovery. The 250MW, $386 million, Mannar Project will provide local jobs and opportunities for numerous small businesses, besides generating renewable energy. Even though the detailed Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), include Birds and Bats Studies, carried out after detailed on-ground study and past data reference, anti-green activists continue to put roadblocks.

 This brings to light the real intention of the ‘Viyath Maga’ and who exactly are they working for - the fossil fuel masters or anti-sustainable development entities. The country cannot afford to get hijacked from its sustainable development path by these dubious actors. It’s time we unite for our good and that of our future generation.