By: Staff Writer
July 17, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has reaffirmed its strong commitment to regional solar energy collaboration and sustainable energy transformation at the 7th meeting of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Regional Committee for Asia and the Pacific, held this week in Colombo. The high-level gathering brought together representatives from 124 member countries to discuss strategies to advance solar adoption and strengthen energy security across the region.
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, delivering the keynote address, emphasized Sri Lanka’s resolve to play a leading role in regional efforts to harness solar power for sustainable development. “We are committed to strengthening cooperation across the region and ensuring energy security through clean and renewable sources,” she said, highlighting the nation’s vision for a low-carbon future.
The meeting, held under the theme ‘Advancing Solar Cooperation Across a Region of Diversity and Opportunity’, marked a significant milestone with the official signing of the Country Partnership Roadmap between Sri Lanka and the ISA. The roadmap outlines a collaborative framework aimed at accelerating solar energy adoption through joint projects, knowledge-sharing, and investment support.
Energy Minister Eng. Kumara Jayakody received the document on behalf of Sri Lanka and unveiled the government’s flagship initiative titled “Battle for Solar Energy”, focused on scaling up rooftop solar installations across households, industries, and public institutions. The minister reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to achieving 70% of its energy mix from renewable sources by 2030, a goal seen as both ambitious and critical to meeting climate resilience targets.
Indian High Commissioner Santosh Jha and ISA Director General Ashish Khanna attended the event, underscoring India’s pivotal role in supporting the ISA’s vision for a solar-powered global future. The alliance, spearheaded by India and France, aims to mobilize over $1 trillion in solar investments by 2030 and facilitate affordable solar access to all member nations.
The event also served as a platform for regional collaboration, with the University of Moratuwa being recognized as a future center for solar research and technological innovation in Sri Lanka. Plans are underway to develop the university into a regional knowledge hub, fostering innovation and capacity building in solar energy technologies.
A special solar innovation exhibition was opened by Prime Minister Amarasuriya, showcasing cutting-edge solar solutions from across Asia and the Pacific. The exhibition displayed scalable solar models designed to meet the needs of diverse economic contexts—from urban households to remote rural communities.
As Sri Lanka intensifies its push toward a renewable energy future, its leadership in regional forums like the ISA reaffirms its dedication to climate action, energy equity, and sustainable growth.
