Thursday Apr 30, 2026
Thursday Apr 30, 2026
Thursday, 30 April 2026 00:21 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
The Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) yesterday announced launching a public consultation process following a revised electricity generation cost estimate submitted by National System Operator Ltd., on 27 April, driven largely by rising global fuel prices.
Based on this submission, the Commission has prepared a consultation paper outlining proposed adjustments for the second and third quarters of 2026.
A key feature of the proposal is a Government subsidy of Rs. 15 billion, expected to come into effect from 10 May, aimed at cushioning the impact on electricity users.
As a result, the Commission has recommended that nearly 95% of electricity users, including households and religious institutions, will not face tariff increases.
Similar relief is proposed for public works, State institutions, and tourist hotels consuming less than 180 units per month, as well as for the first sub-category of the industrial sector.
The PUCSL has also taken steps to ensure that additional costs arising from the ongoing coal supply constraints are not passed on to consumers through tariffs, a move intended to limit external shocks from affecting domestic electricity pricing.
Despite these mitigation measures, the PUCSL estimates that the system operator will record a deficit of around Rs. 38 billion for the two quarters due to higher generation costs.
This figure excludes further expenses linked to coal shortages, with the Government already committing to cover Rs. 15 billion of the shortfall through subsidies.
The consultation paper has been made public, with stakeholders invited to submit written submissions until 6 May. Submissions can be made via post, email, fax, and WhatsApp. In addition, an oral consultation session is scheduled for the same day at the Bandaranaike International Conference Hall (BMICH) in Colombo, with prior registration required.
Following the consultation process, the Commission is expected to announce its final decision on electricity tariffs on 9 May, taking into account public and stakeholder feedback.
