By: Staff Writer
November 27, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka is moving forward with a crucial electricity transmission initiative designed to enhance the national power network and boost renewable energy capacity.
The long-delayed Norochcholai–Wariyapola Transmission Development Project will create a robust high-capacity corridor connecting Puttalam and Wariyapola, aimed at easing network congestion and improving the reliability of electricity supply in the North Western Province.
The project has been identified as a top priority under the Ceylon Electricity Board’s Long-Term Transmission Plan 2025-2034. It is expected to significantly expand the country’s capacity to integrate renewable energy, with the potential to channel more than 750 MW of wind and solar power into the national grid.
The North Western Province, particularly the Puttalam region, has been recognized as a key renewable energy hub due to its strong wind and solar resources. However, existing transmission infrastructure has limited the ability to fully harness these resources, leading to curtailment and grid instability.
Energy officials emphasize that the development will provide multiple benefits to the public. By strengthening the main transmission backbone, the project will ensure a more stable and reliable electricity supply, reducing the frequency of power interruptions.
This improved reliability is expected to benefit households, businesses, and industries in the region while also encouraging further investment in renewable energy projects. Additionally, the enhanced network will help accommodate fluctuating outputs from renewable sources, supporting a cleaner, more sustainable energy mix for the country.
The estimated cost of the project is Rs. 24.06 billion, with the Government actively pursuing financing from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). Experts highlight that the investment will not only support energy security but also create employment opportunities during construction and operation phases, fostering local economic development.
Government officials underline that the Norochcholai–Wariyapola Transmission Development Project aligns with Sri Lanka’s broader energy strategy, which seeks to significantly increase renewable energy generation by 2030.
By expanding the transmission network and reducing bottlenecks, the initiative is expected to provide long-term benefits for both the energy system and the communities it serves, paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient national grid.
