Publications

Survey of Energy Resources 2007

Wind Country Notes

Sri Lanka
A large section of the Sri Lankan population is without access to electricity and whilst hydropower provides the majority of the generated power, this dependence is vulnerable to drought. In order to increase electricity coverage as well as to satisfy the rapidly growing demand for power, much extra capacity will be required.

In June 2003 a USAID-funded solar and wind mapping survey was presented to the Sri Lankan Government. The survey, conducted by the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory, identified various locations along the northwestern coast and the central hill areas for further exploratory work.

At the present time a 3 MW pilot wind project is operating at Hambantota in the south of the country and various small village projects for powering computers, televisions and radios are being implemented. Further projects have been proposed for Bundala, Kirinda and Palatupana.

It has been reported that the Ceylon Electricity Board ultimately hopes to have 200 MW grid-connected wind capacity in the south-eastern quarter of the island.