Hayleys Fentons Ltd has been awarded the contract for developing a 50 MW wind power facility in Mannar through a transparent and competitive appeal process, overseen by the Procurement Appeal Board (PAB) and approved by the Cabinet of Ministers. The company confirmed that the contract was secured following due process, ensuring fairness and accountability.
Initially, Hayleys Fentons’ bid faced rejection due to additional content in the bid security. However, upon appeal, the PAB reviewed the bid on August 6, 2024, and determined that the additional content provided further assurance of bid security. Consequently, the PAB recommended that the Cabinet consider and evaluate the bid, leading to its approval.
The project was awarded to Hayleys Fentons at the lowest bid price of 4.65 US cents per unit of electricity (kWh), a competitive rate that will result in a substantial saving of over Rs. 3 billion for Sri Lanka compared to the previous lowest bid of 4.88 US cents per unit. This cost reduction underscores the government’s commitment to securing the best value for the country while advancing its renewable energy goals.
Under the previous government, the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) had initially planned to award the contract to Windforce Plc. at a higher rate of 4.88 cents per unit. However, following the appeal process, Hayleys Fentons revised its original bid downward to 4.65 cents per unit, ultimately winning the contract. Other bidders included Vidullanka, Universal Energy, and Square Mech at 4.98 cents per unit, and Lakdhanavi Ltd. at 5.90 cents per unit.
Mannar, known for its strong wind currents, is an optimal site for wind energy production. This project is expected to contribute approximately 150 gigawatt-hours annually to the national grid, reinforcing Sri Lanka’s commitment to renewable energy. Furthermore, the initiative marks a significant step in involving local companies in sustainable infrastructure projects, enhancing both national energy security and economic growth.
Officials from the Power and Energy Ministry confirmed that the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) between Hayleys Fentons and the CEB is expected to be signed within a month. Once finalized, the project is set to commence as per the planned schedule, supporting job creation and boosting regional economies.
The high wind potential in Mannar enables a plant factor exceeding 40%, as demonstrated by the existing 103.5 MW wind power facility operated by the CEB. Additionally, the use of advanced bird radar technology minimizes environmental impact by automatically halting turbine operations upon detecting bird movements.
Hayleys Fentons, a leading entity in Sri Lanka’s engineering and renewable energy sectors since 1919, has strengthened its financial position and growth potential following its integration into the Hayleys Group in 2016. Securing this project reinforces the company’s role as a key player in Sri Lanka’s clean energy transition.
The government and relevant authorities reaffirm that the tendering process adhered strictly to procurement regulations, ensuring fair competition. Any claims of underhand dealings in the awarding of this contract are entirely unfounded, as the project was secured through a transparent and merit-based process.
