Billions at stake as renewable energy projects face deliberate sabotage

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Billions at stake as renewable energy projects face deliberate sabotage - Breaking News | Daily Mirror
3 June 2025 07:15 pm

A deliberate attempt is reportedly underway to derail Sri Lanka’s renewable energy progress, as powerful interests move to protect the dominance of thermal power, sources within the Ministry of Energy have revealed.

According to ministry officials, certain factions with vested interests in thermal energy are attempting to sabotage renewable energy initiatives, particularly as the growing adoption of low-cost green power is reducing reliance on expensive oil-based electricity.

Data from the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) shows that in 2023, the country spent Rs. 227 billion on thermal power. By 2024, this figure had dropped to Rs. 145 billion—marking a significant saving of Rs. 82 billion within just one year, thanks to the government’s shift toward renewable energy.

However, this transition has not been welcomed by all. “A group that stands to lose from the decline in thermal power demand is working strategically to hinder renewable projects,” a senior energy ministry source told reporters. “Their goal is to sustain demand for thermal power by discrediting clean energy efforts.”

One major target appears to be the proposed 10MW x 6 wind power project in Kalpitiya. The project, a US$72 million (Rs. 22 billion) private sector investment, has cleared all regulatory hurdles and is on the verge of signing power purchase agreements. Yet, it now faces organized resistance allegedly fueled by misinformation and misinterpretation of facts.

“This sabotage is both calculated and misleading,” a senior CEB official said. “If this project is blocked, the country will be forced to revert to oil-based power—at a much higher cost to the national economy.”

The Kalpitiya wind farm project is expected to generate electricity at just Rs. 29.80 per unit, significantly cheaper than the over Rs. 75 per unit cost of thermal power. The CEB notes that while the government typically funds land and transmission infrastructure for large-scale renewables, under this model the investor is covering the full cost—approximately US$19 million (Rs. 6 billion)—of connecting the wind farm to the grid.

“This model ensures minimal public expenditure while delivering cheaper, cleaner electricity,” the official added.

Critics warn that attempts to block such projects will reverse hard-won progress in clean energy, drive up electricity prices, and delay the country’s path to energy security and sustainability.

With billions in potential savings and a greener future on the line, energy experts stress the urgency of protecting renewable energy efforts from sabotage rooted in profit-driven motives.