February 22, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka could soon see another increase in household power bills, after the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) submitted a fresh proposal seeking to raise electricity tariffs by 13.56 per cent for the second quarter of 2026.
The application has been formally handed to the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL), which announced that it will conduct a nationwide consultation before reaching a verdict. The proposed revision would apply from 1 April to 30 June 2026, if approved.
The regulator has scheduled a public consultation period from 25 February until 18 March, during which members of the public will be able to submit comments in writing or present their views in person. Sessions are expected to be held across all nine provinces to ensure broad regional representation, with consumer groups, trade bodies and civil society organisations encouraged to take part.
This marks the second attempt by the CEB to revise tariffs this year. An earlier request for an 11.57 per cent rise covering the first quarter of 2026 failed to secure regulatory approval, reportedly after concerns were raised over cost justifications and the potential impact on households already grappling with living expenses.
In a statement, the PUCSL emphasised that public feedback would carry significant weight in its assessment, noting that affordability, operational costs and long-term energy stability would all factor into its final determination.
Energy analysts suggest the proposed increase reflects mounting generation costs and ongoing financial pressures within the power sector, though consumer advocates have warned that any upward adjustment must be carefully balanced against the economic realities faced by families and small businesses.
The Commission has urged citizens to engage actively in the consultation process, stressing that the ultimate decision on electricity pricing will be made only after reviewing submissions from stakeholders across the country.
