The Sri Lankan government has approved a significant 100 MW solar power project in Siyambalanduwa, Monaragala District. This initiative is a major step towards boosting the nation’s renewable energy capabilities and aligns with Sri Lanka’s energy goals.
Key Details of the Sri Lanka solar project
The project will be developed with the support of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and will be implemented by the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB). The solar farm will connect to the national grid through a 220 kV transmission line, linking the facility to the Ampara Grid Substation. This ensures that the energy produced will be seamlessly integrated into the country’s overall power infrastructure.
This project is part of Sri Lanka’s broader goal to increase the share of renewable energy in its power generation mix. The government has set an ambitious target of achieving 70% renewable energy by 2030. To reach this goal, the country is focusing on expanding its renewable energy capacity through projects like this solar farm.
Progress of the Sri Lanka solar project Towards Renewable Energy Goals
As of the end of 2022, Sri Lanka had a total of 873 MW of installed solar capacity. This marked a significant increase from previous years, with 2022 alone seeing the addition of 243 MW of new solar capacity. In 2021, the country had installed 187 MW of solar power, while in 2020, the figure was 165 MW. This steady growth highlights the government’s commitment to renewable energy and the increasing role of solar power in the country’s energy mix.
In addition to solar power, Sri Lanka is also focusing on other renewable energy sources. As of the end of 2022, the country had a total of 1.6 GW of renewables, which included 1,423 MW of hydropower and 248 MW of wind power. This diverse mix of renewable energy sources is essential for ensuring that the country can meet its future energy needs sustainably.
The contribution of renewable energy to Sri Lanka’s total electricity generation has also been growing. In 2022, renewable energy accounted for 49% of the country’s total electricity output, which stood at 15.5 TWh. This is a significant achievement and underscores the importance of projects like the Siyambalanduwa solar farm in helping the country meet its energy targets.
Future Prospects and Challenges for the Sri Lanka solar project
While Sri Lanka has made significant progress in expanding its renewable energy capacity, the country still faces challenges in achieving its 70% renewable energy target by 2030. One of the main challenges is ensuring that the necessary infrastructure is in place to support the integration of renewable energy into the national grid. Projects like the 100 MW solar farm in Siyambalanduwa are crucial for addressing this challenge and ensuring that the country can continue to expand its renewable energy capacity.
The support of international organizations like the Asian Development Bank (ADB) is also essential for the success of these projects. The ADB’s involvement in the Siyambalanduwa solar project highlights the importance of international cooperation in helping countries like Sri Lanka achieve their renewable energy goals.
Sri Lanka’s approval of the 100 MW solar project in Siyambalanduwa is a major milestone in the country’s journey towards achieving its renewable energy targets. With continued investment in renewable energy infrastructure and international support, Sri Lanka is well on its way to creating a sustainable and resilient energy future. For more insights into Sri Lanka’s solar initiatives, you can visit PVknowhow.com.
