The Bill to amend the Sri Lanka Electricity Act No. 20 of 2009 was brought to the attention of the Ministerial Consultative Committee on Power and Energy chaired by Minister of Power and Energy Hon. Kanchana Wijesekera,  recently (07).   

Hon. Sajith Premadasa, Leader of the Opposition was also present at the meeting and he stated that it is important to have an open discussion on the amendment of the Sri Lanka Electricity Act. He further stated that it is important to discuss this amendment with stakeholders, employees as well as other institutions and come to a more correct decision.

Prior to approving the Bill, the Hon. Ministers and Members of Parliament who were present at the Committee stated that it is important to clarify all the issues involved and that it is important to do the right thing responsibly and without delay. The Committee noted that not only the Act but also technical and legal matters should be taken into further consideration.

The Minister explained to the Committee that it is important to encourage foreign and local investors in carrying out renewable energy projects in the country. He also pointed out the importance of having a committee of the Electricity Board and the Sustainable Energy Authority represented by the Hon. Members of Parliament.

The Committee further noted that as a solution to the current power crisis, it is important to implement an expeditious plan for the proper utilization of natural water and wind in the country and to take appropriate action to further strengthen the projects of installing solar panels on roofs and increasing renewable energy. The minister stated that the plan is expected to be tabled in the future.

The meeting also drew attention to the issue of kerosene and diesel to be supplied to fishing harbors in the face of the ongoing oil crisis and the issue of water depletion associated with hydro power plants. Attention was also drawn to the need to discuss with the Parliament regarding the Sapugaskanda oil refinery and to give priority to cooperative filling stations in supplying oil.

The Minister of Power and Energy Hon. Kanchana Wijesekera, Leader of the Opposition Hon. Sajith Premadasa and a large number of Members of Parliament as well as a number of senior government officials participated in the meeting.