September 03, Colombo (LNW): As the global economy evolves, the demand for energy continues to rise, pushing countries towards more sustainable resource use.
The era of oil and coal-fired power generation is drawing to a close, making way for cleaner energy sources. Sri Lanka, in line with this global shift, is actively working to diversify its energy mix.
In a significant move towards this transition, Sri Lanka has recently completed the first phase of the Sobadhanavi Combined Cycle Power Plant.
This state-of-the-art facility, which is both LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) ready and Hydrogen capable, marks a major milestone in the country’s journey towards clean energy.
Currently, the plant contributes a dependable capacity of 220 megawatts to the national grid, with plans to increase this output to 350 megawatts upon completion of the next phase by early next year.
Chief Operations Officer of Lakdhanavi Limited, Kithsiri Egodawatta, outlined the ambitious plans for the plant’s expansion.
“We have successfully installed a power generation capacity of 220 megawatts. The next phase will see the installation of a Steam Turbine and a Heat Recovery Steam Generator. This technology will allow us to harness exhaust heat from the gas turbine to generate additional energy, enabling us to produce another 130 megawatts. By February or March next year, we aim to fully realise the plant’s potential, bringing total power generation to 350 megawatts.”
Currently operating on diesel, the Sobadhanavi plant incorporates cutting-edge technology to enhance efficiency, resulting in lower generation costs compared to other diesel-based plants.
Importantly, the facility is poised to transition to LNG power generation as soon as LNG becomes available in the country. The cost benefits of this switch are substantial, with LNG power generation being only one-third the cost of diesel.
Egodawatta also discussed Sri Lanka’s current energy mix, noting that the country relies on renewable sources, primarily hydropower, for 50-55 per cent of its energy needs. The remainder is supplied by thermal power, with coal being the dominant source, supplemented by diesel and furnace oil.
He emphasised that LNG serves as a transitional fuel in the shift from thermal power to cleaner energy options, with hydrogen as the next frontier. “Our equipment is already capable of using hydrogen to some extent, which makes it even more environmentally friendly. When hydrogen is burned, it produces only water, making it an ideal clean energy source.”
The strategic location of the Sobadhanavi plant in the Western Province, where energy consumption is highest, is expected to stabilise the national grid and reduce transmission costs.
“By positioning the plant close to the area of highest demand, we significantly lower transmission expenses, which is crucial for improving the overall efficiency of our power system,” Egodawatta explained.
This development is a key step in Sri Lanka’s efforts to modernise its energy infrastructure, reduce transmission losses, and ultimately lower costs.
