Sri Lanka to explore floating solar power development

Wednesday, 13 August 2025 00:28 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Cabinet approves to start procurement for consultants to conduct feasibility studies

By Charumini de Silva

Recognising the potential of floating solar power as an emerging technology in Sri Lanka’s renewable energy sector, the Cabinet of Ministers on Monday approved beginning the procurement process to invite proposals from qualified companies for consultancy services.

“The Government has identified renewable energy development as a national priority, with a target of generating 70% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030 and achieving zero carbon emissions in power generation by 2050,” Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said at the weekly post-Cabinet meeting media briefing yesterday.

As part of this strategy, he said the Renewable Energy Resources Development Plan 2026–2030 has earmarked several promising reservoirs for floating solar power projects, with an estimated capacity of 3,000 megawatts based on utilising 10% of their median surface area.

He said these services will cover pre-feasibility studies, full feasibility studies and environmental impact assessments. “The water bodies for solar panels will be identified after pre-feasibility studies, feasibility studies and environmental impact evaluation,” Dr.Jayatissa added.

He also acknowledged that there are a number of challenges including the cost of battery storage for such floating solar power projects.

Dr. Jayatissa said the move marks a key step toward diversifying the country’s clean energy portfolio, whilst optimising underutilised water surfaces for sustainable electricity generation. “Land is scarce and as an alternative, we are utilising this floating method or solar,” he added.

The proposal to this effect submitted by Power Minister Eng. Kumara Jayakody was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

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