Wednesday Nov 26, 2025
Wednesday Nov 26, 2025
Wednesday, 26 November 2025 00:24 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
The Cabinet of Ministers on Monday approved authorising the CEB to proceed with long-delayed Norochcholai–Wariyapola Transmission Development Project execution and initiate formal negotiations with Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) to obtain the required financing.
The project, identified as a top priority under the Ceylon Electricity Board’s Long-Term Transmission Plan 2025–2034, is designed to strengthen the main transmission backbone between Puttalam and Wariyapola while easing network congestion arising from increased renewable generation in the region.
The initiative aims at integrating over 750 MW of renewable energy potential in the North Western Province into the national grid.
According to the Energy Ministry, the North Western Province, particularly Puttalam and surrounding areas has emerged as one of Sri Lanka’s most promising renewable energy zones due to its strong wind and solar potential. However, inadequate transmission capacity has prevented the full utilisation of this power, leading to curtailment and grid instability.
Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa announced the decision at the weekly post-Cabinet meeting media briefing yesterday and said the proposed development will establish a high-capacity transmission corridor to efficiently absorb fluctuating renewable energy sources and channel them into the national grid. It will also reduce congestion in the existing network, thereby improving reliability and system resilience.
“The project is estimated to cost Rs. 24.06 billion, with the Department of National Policy and Planning recommending its inclusion in the mid-term Budget. The Government expects to secure funding from the AIIB,” he said.
Once implemented, the Norochcholai–Wariyapola project is expected to play a critical role in supporting the national goal of significantly expanding renewable energy generation by 2030.
The Cabinet of Ministers has now granted approval for the proposal submitted by the Minister of Energy, authorising the CEB to proceed with project execution and initiate formal negotiations with AIIB to obtain the required financing.
The proposal to this effect was submitted by Energy Minister Eng. Kumara Jayakody.
