In a decisive move to bolster the nation's commitment to renewable energy, the Sri Lankan government announced the formation of a combined standing committee tasked with making crucial decisions regarding renewable energy projects. The Cabinet of Ministers granted approval to this significant initiative on Monday, December 11, recognizing the urgency to accelerate the implementation of such projects to meet the Nationally Determined Contribution targets set for 2030.
This strategic decision follows a November 20 Cabinet meeting, during which it was determined that a more efficient system needed to be introduced to hasten the implementation of renewable energy projects. The evaluation took into consideration the time-consuming nature of existing methods and the potential challenges faced by investors adhering to those methods.
Minister of Power and Energy Kanchana Wijesekera proposed the establishment of a combined standing committee to oversee and streamline the decision-making process for renewable energy initiatives. The committee will comprise representatives from various key institutions involved in the sector.
The approved proposal outlines the composition of the committee, which includes the following entities:
Presidential Secretariat (Chairman of the Committee)
Prime Minister’s Office
Ministry of Finance, Economic Stabilization, and National Policies
Ministry of Investment Promotions
Ministry of Wildlife and Forest Resources Conservation
Ministry of Environment
Ministry of Tourism and Lands
Ministry of Industries
Ministry of Power and Energy
Ministry of Irrigation
Ministry of Water Supply and Estate Infrastructure Development
Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority
Ceylon Electricity Board
This collaborative approach, with representation from a spectrum of government bodies, is anticipated to facilitate more effective decision-making, ensure prompt implementation of projects, and contribute significantly to meeting the ambitious renewable energy targets set for Sri Lanka by 2030.
