August 29, Colombo (LNW): India has taken a significant step in advancing the Hybrid Power Projects on three islands off Jaffna, with the first payment being handed over to Sulakshana Jayawardena, Secretary of the Ministry of Power and Energy, and Ranjith Sepala, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority (SLSEA).
The funds were presented by Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha.
This payment marks a crucial milestone in the implementation of hybrid renewable energy projects on the islands of Delft, Nainativu, and Analaitivu.
The initiative follows a Memorandum of Understanding signed between the governments of India and Sri Lanka in March 2022.
Subsequently, in March 2024, the SLSEA entered into a contract with M/s. U Solar Clean Energy Solutions Pvt. Ltd. to carry out the project.
The project is designed to address the energy requirements of these remote islands, which are currently not connected to the national grid.
By combining solar and wind energy, the initiative aims to optimise energy production and provide a sustainable power solution for the local communities.
Preliminary work has already begun at the project sites, with completion expected by early March 2025, and the final handover anticipated by late April 2025.
Funded by a grant of USD 11 million from the Indian Government, this project underscores India’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in the energy sector.
It also highlights the human-centric approach of India’s development partnership initiatives in Sri Lanka, focusing on enhancing the quality of life for people in the region.
