REPA calls on presidential candidates to address solar tariff cuts and promote renewable energy – Adaderana Biz English

The Renewable Energy Advocates Association (REPA) has called on leading presidential candidates to come up with plans to address the challenges facing the renewable energy sector, including the recent decision by the Minister of Energy and Power to reduce the tariff rate for solar power projects to Rs 27 per unit. REPA has also urged the public, especially those who have invested in solar power projects and other renewable energy projects, to support the candidate who offers the most cost-effective solutions. The CEB CEO, ignoring the Cabinet decision and the directives of the Public Utilities Commission, has directed officials to reduce the tariff rate for solar power projects. REPA President Darshana Liyanasekara said the move discourages local investment in renewable energy, undermines the progress made in recent years and threatens the goal of sustainable economic growth through renewable energy.

“We are losing billions in foreign currency, especially US dollars, due to our dependence on diesel-based power generation. While the Minister of Energy and Power has taken steps to reduce tariffs for solar power projects, no action has been taken to reduce the prices paid for diesel-based power. The government currently pays between Rs 70 and Rs 100 per unit of electricity generated from diesel. By investing in solar power, we can keep this money in the country instead of losing it as dollar outflow.” REPA is calling on the presidential candidates to clearly state their position on whether they support citizens and renewable energy and is calling on those who have installed solar panels, as well as those who are planning to do so, to consider the matter carefully and vote for the candidate who will commit to a favourable programme for the renewable energy sector and will commit to reversing the arbitrary decision of the Minister of Energy and Power. An electricity consumer from Katunayake area, K. Lakshman, said switching to solar energy could help reduce electricity bills for households and lower production costs for factories. Suggesting that renewable energy could also be one way to help the country overcome its debt crisis, he urged the government to pay attention to the issue.

Signature – Representatives of the Renewable Energy Advocates Association (REPA) at a press conference