Sri Lanka has taken key steps toward nuclear energy development, identifying five possible sites for its first nuclear power plant as part of a broader 2025–2044 energy plan. The IAEA confirms the country’s growing commitment to a safe and strategic nuclear future.
Sri Lanka is moving closer to launching its nuclear energy program, having identified five potential sites for the country’s first nuclear power plant. This comes as part of an infrastructure review conducted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which confirms that Sri Lanka has made notable progress since 2022.
The follow-up Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) mission was conducted from 14 to 18 July 2025, at the request of the Sri Lankan government. The IAEA praised the country’s commitment to advancing its nuclear agenda.
Sri Lanka has drafted a nuclear law, formed a management structure to oversee reactor procurement, and integrated nuclear power into its 2025–2044 national energy plan.
John Haddad, mission leader from the IAEA’s nuclear infrastructure development section, noted, “Sri Lanka is actively working on addressing the recommendations from the 2022 INIR mission. This shows its dedication to making informed decisions on nuclear energy.”
The country’s interest in nuclear power dates back to 2010. In 2024, the government decided to take further steps, and nuclear energy was officially added to Sri Lanka’s long-term power generation strategy.
However, the current state of Sri Lanka’s power grid poses challenges for accommodating reactors above 600 MW. The network’s limitations, projected demand, and a shift toward renewable energy make integration complex.
The IAEA team recommends Sri Lanka continue developing key infrastructure strategies, including stakeholder engagement, human resource development, waste management, and industrial support.
In 2024, local media reported that Sri Lanka had received six international proposals for building a commercial nuclear power plant.
