Sri Lankan President Anura Dissanayake has announced the suspension of the much-anticipated Mannar Wind Power Project, originally set to be developed by Indian billionaire Gautam Adani’s companies. The decision was disclosed by Lakmal Fernando, Secretary of the Sri Lanka National Chamber of Commerce, during a recent press briefing.
The suspension follows offers from three local companies that have pledged to supply electricity at a lower cost than Adani’s firm. This move is seen as part of a broader effort to regain control of the country’s energy sector, which has increasingly been influenced by foreign entities. According to Fernando, prioritizing domestic energy producers could help safeguard Sri Lanka’s economic and energy independence.
The Secretary further emphasized the need to reduce reliance on expensive, fuel-based power generation. He urged the government to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, and hydropower, to address rising energy costs. Fernando highlighted the importance of incorporating modern technologies to maximize the potential of Sri Lanka’s natural resources and reduce the country’s overall energy expenditure.
The decision to halt the project comes amidst growing concerns over the influence of foreign investments in strategic sectors of Sri Lanka. With the suspension of the Mannar Wind Power Project, the government aims to promote local solutions and reduce the nation’s dependency on costly imports for energy production.
