By: Staff Writer
July 27, Colombo (LNW): As Sri Lanka grapples with mounting energy challenges and increasing dependence on costly fossil fuel imports, the country’s solar energy drive is gaining renewed urgency. Despite ambitious renewable energy targets, progress has slowed due to financial constraints, regulatory delays, and limited public investment.
In this environment, private sector players are stepping up to fill the gap, with companies like WindForce PLC and Vidullanka PLC taking the lead in advancing clean energy solutions.
In a major boost to Sri Lanka’s solar power ambitions, WindForce and Vidullanka recently announced the successful commissioning of the 10 MW Sooryashakthi Solar Power Project in Vavunativu, Batticaloa. Energy Minister Eng. Kumara Jayakody graced the inauguration, highlighting the state’s endorsement of private-sector-led renewable ventures.
This initiative builds on the success of the Solar Universe project—another 10 MW solar plant co-developed by the same duo in 2022 during the peak of the country’s economic crisis. Now, with Sooryashakthi operational, both companies hold equal stakes, continuing their collaborative commitment to green energy expansion.
The project stands out for its innovative use of 27 acres of high-salinity land, previously deemed unfit for agriculture. Spearheaded by WindForce’s engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) division, the site was transformed into a productive clean energy source. Despite facing significant challenges—including seasonal flooding and poor soil conditions—the plant was completed on schedule thanks to strong inter-agency coordination and community support.
Equipped with 22,048 photovoltaic modules and 34 high-efficiency string inverters, the plant will contribute 19.5 GWh annually to the national grid. Its proximity to the Solar Universe facility allowed the team to use a short 330-metre transmission line, enabling fast and low-loss connectivity to the grid.
Sooryashakthi is more than just a power plant—it represents a resilient model for future development. It is the fourth successful collaboration between WindForce and Vidullanka, which also includes two mini-hydro projects in Ganthuna and Madugeta, with a combined capacity of 3.7 MW.
With the support of the Ministry of Power and Energy, the Ceylon Electricity Board, the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority, PUCSL, and environmental agencies, the project underscores the potential of public-private partnerships in revitalizing the nation’s energy sector.
At a time when Sri Lanka’s energy security is at risk, Sooryashakthi symbolizes hope and direction. As the country works toward a cleaner and more sustainable future, the role of the private sector remains vital in turning policy promises into real-world impact.
