Sri Lanka Urges Residents to Conserve Electricity as Dry Weather Straps Power Grid

Colombo, Sri Lanka – Sri Lanka‘s state-owned electricity producer, the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB), has appealed to residents to use electricity sparingly as dry weather pushes power demand to new highs.

CEB spokesman Noel Priyantha reported a surge in electricity consumption of 3-4 gigawatt hours over the past month, attributed to increased reliance on fans and air conditioning during the hot, dry spell. This surge coincides with a significant drop in hydropower generation, currently at only 21%, due to lower water levels in reservoirs.

While solar and wind power contribute 4.5% and 5% respectively, the CEB is heavily reliant on thermal power plants, which currently generate over 60% of the nation’s electricity. However, thermal power generation is significantly more expensive, contributing to Sri Lanka having one of the highest electricity production costs in Asia.

“The increased demand and reliance on thermal power are putting a strain on our resources,” said Priyantha. “We urge all residents to conserve electricity wherever possible to help us manage the situation and avoid potential disruptions.”