Colombo, Sri Lanka – Over 100,000 homeowners with rooftop solar power systems are facing a serious risk due to new regulations proposed by the government, the Solar Industry Association (SIA) has warned.
According to Javid Kamil, Chairman of SIA, the proposed reduction in payments per unit of solar energy will negatively impact both homeowners and solar industry businesses.
“Rooftop solar systems alone contributed 500 megawatts to the national grid in 2024, accounting for 5% of total demand. Currently, homeowners with solar systems receive Rs. 27 per unit if their system is below 500 kilowatts and Rs. 23 per unit if it exceeds 500 kilowatts. The government’s plan to reduce these payments by 30% threatens the entire industry,” Kamil stated.
He further highlighted concerns that solar power companies could collapse, leaving homeowners without proper maintenance for their installations, which are designed to operate under a 20-year warranty.
Additionally, Kamil rejected claims made by the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) that rooftop solar power systems caused the islandwide power outage on February 9, 2025. He called on the government to appoint an independent investigation into the matter.
The CEB has also proposed shutting down rooftop solar power systems every Sunday from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, a move that industry experts say will further jeopardize renewable energy adoption in Sri Lanka.
Industry representatives are now urging the government to reconsider the payment reductions and withdrawal of restrictions, warning of severe consequences for both homeowners and solar energy businesses.
