19.9.2008
Colombo News Desk

Minister W.D.J. Seneviratne says the government has implemented a systematic programme in a bid to provide permanent solutions to energy crisis.

Speaking media the Minister said plans have been set to add 1500 megawatts to the national electricity grid by 2012. The Norochcholai coal power plant will commence its operations by 2010 generating 300 megawatts of electricity. The 150 megawatt pper-Kotmale power plant and the Kelawarapitiya plant of 300 megawatts will come to their full operations in 2011.

Minister Seneviratne said that another 600 megawatts of electricity will be generated through wind power, mini-hydro power plants and re-generative energy sources. He also pointed out the importance of using electricity sparingly in the face of present power crisis. Using CFL bulbs could spare more electricity.

A programme has been implemented to minimize the waste of electricity. The Minister added that 75 per cent of demand for electricity has been met in the eastern province. The government has spent over one billion rupees for these development programmes.