Sri Lanka is planning to invite bids for the development of two large-scale offshore wind farms, each with a capacity of 500 megawatts. These wind farms will be located off the coasts of Mannar and Puttalam, with bidding expected to open after completing feasibility studies in 2027.
According to Thilak Siyambalapitiya, Chairman of the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB), the CEB will first conduct detailed environmental studies, seabed assessments, and supply evaluations before proceeding with the bidding process.
Siyambalapitiya highlighted that the Mannar area has the potential for significantly higher energy yield compared to Puttalam, making it a more attractive location for wind power generation. A two-year study for a wind farm planned by the Mannar Electricity Board, financed by the Asian Development Bank, will also provide insights into the viability and optimization of wind energy in the region.
One of the key challenges identified for these projects is the potential impact on bird migration. Radar systems will be installed to prevent turbines from interfering with migrating birds. Siyambalapitiya pointed out that last year, turbines at a similar facility lost about 5% of their potential energy due to automatic shutdowns triggered by migrating bird flocks detected by radar systems.
The development of these wind farms will require balancing environmental concerns, such as protecting bird populations, while harnessing the potential of wind energy to support Sri Lanka’s growing electricity needs.
