Sri Lanka has recently engaged with the American Clean Energy Solutions Inc. Ontario, Canada to develop 100 Megawatts solar power project on SLBC land in Nilaweli, Trincomalee. This project is in line with the Government policy directive and vision of achieving 70% of electricity generation from renewable energy resources by 2030.
The American Clean Energy Solutions Inc. Ontario, Canada will invest over USD 150 million to develop the Nilaveli Solar Power Project with the support from Sri Lankan developer; 3 W Power Management Limited.
The SLBC has organized a small-scale function on 30th January 2023 at the SLBC premises to award the Energy Permit Approval clarence letter received from Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority (SEA) to the Canadian Investor.
Regional Director of the American Clean Energy Solutions Inc., Mr. Mohamed Hussain received the award letter from SLBC Chairman, Mr. Hudson Samarasinghe with the presence of Hon. Cabinet Minister of Transport, Highways and Mass Media Dr. Bandula Gunawardana; Secretary, Ministry of Mass Media; Mr. Anusha Pelpita, Chairman SEA, Eng. Ranjith Sepala, Director General of SLBC Mr. Nalin Kumara Nissanka and Director General of SEA Mr. J.M Athula.
The Chief Guest, Hon. Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardana said that Sri Lanka should attract more foreign direct investments to come out from the present economic crisis. He invited all investors to provide required support to develop Renewable Energy drive of Sri Lanka and appreciate the efforts made by Mr. Indika Kumara Weerakkody Executive Director/Vice President and Mr. Warnapriya Wijesundara, Executive Director/General Manager of 3 W Power Management Limited.
Speaking further, the Minister said that it is essential to initiate new business opportunities to bring FDIs to Sri Lanka. Nilaveli Solar project has been planned to develop on unutilized land extent belongs to SLBC and generate additional income to the SLBC. Minister also pointed out the enormous benefits from this solar power project as it reduces the requirement of fossil fuels to generate electricity. It was informed that the project will save approximately Rs. 8,000 million per annum to CEB by replacing the high-cost thermal power.
Vice President of the 3 W Power Management Limited; Mr. Weerakkody appreciated the support received from all the government officials such as Divisional Secretary Kuchchaveli, CEB, SEA, CEA and specially to SLBC during the initial approval process of the project.