August 07, Colombo (LNW): In a significant decision by the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL), the payments for rooftop solar power plants will remain unchanged.
According to a circular issued by Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) General Manager Dr. Narendra Silva, the price of Rs. 37 per unit of solar electricity, established in 2022, will continue to be applicable.
The circular, dated July 29, adjusts the effective date for Rooftop Solar PV (RTSPV) schemes to October 25, 2022, while keeping the rest of the content intact.
This decision follows concerns raised by the Renewable Energy Protectors’ Association (REPA) about the Government’s decision to reduce tariff rates for new rooftop solar and renewable energy projects starting from July 1, 2024.
Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera announced the new tariffs, which are based on a 2022 formula considering the USD rate, interest rates, and other economic factors.
In a post on X, Minister Wijesekera stated: “The revised rates aim to promote the development of rooftop solar projects and other renewable energy initiatives under 10 MW. This decision follows extensive stakeholder consultations and a detailed report from the tariff committee.”
The revised tariff rates for rooftop solar and other renewable energy feed-in tariffs are as follows:
Revised Rooftop Tariff (20-year flat rate):
Up to 500 kW: Rs. 27.06 per kWh
Over 500 kW: Rs. 23.18 per kWh
Revised Feed-in Tariff (20-year flat rate):
Solar: Rs. 25.48 per kWh
Mini Hydro: Rs. 30.53 per kWh
Wind: Rs. 29.86 per kWh
Biomass: Rs. 52.77 per kWh
Despite these revisions, the fixed tariffs for rooftop solar power plants will remain at Rs. 37 per unit for up to 500 kW, Rs. 34.50 for over 500 kW, and Rs. 34.50 for solar aggregation schemes, as per the CEB. Once the Power Purchasing Agreement (PPA) is signed, these rates will be fixed for the next 20 years.
Industry stakeholders have welcomed the stability in rooftop solar tariffs, believing this consistency will support the energy sector’s revival, bolster investor confidence, and encourage the growth of sustainable energy initiatives. They stress the importance of government support for renewable energy projects to ensure a reliable long-term energy supply necessary for economic development.
