Colombo — A controversy has emerged regarding the Norochcholai Coal Power Plant, amid claims that electricity generation capacity has declined due to the use of substandard coal.
Data published in the Central Bank of Sri Lanka’s Daily Economic Indicators report appears to support concerns about a drop in coal-based power generation.
According to the data, electricity generated from coal stood at 34.2 gigawatt-hours on March 3, but declined to 26.2 gigawatt-hours by March 17, indicating a significant reduction in output.
In contrast, electricity generation from diesel power plants has increased notably. On March 3, diesel plants contributed 18.7 gigawatt-hours, which rose to 26 gigawatt-hours by March 17.
Energy experts warn that the increased reliance on diesel-powered generation, particularly in a context of ongoing fuel-related challenges, could pose risks to the stability of uninterrupted electricity supply.
The situation has raised concerns about the efficiency of coal procurement and the broader sustainability of Sri Lanka’s power generation strategy.
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