In response to the power system imbalance caused by the rapid growth of renewable energy, especially solar power, the government recently approved two key decisions to accelerate the deployment of large-scale battery energy storage systems. The cabinet approved the addition of 50 MW of energy storage capacity and integration with existing solar power plants, and approved the construction of 25 10 MW/40 MW independent battery energy storage projects, using the “build-own-operate” model, with an operation period of 15 years.
Cabinet spokesman Jayatisa said that the current night power peak has occurred nearly two years ahead of the long-term power generation plan forecast, exposing the structural gap between daytime solar power generation and evening demand, and there is an urgent need to invest in energy storage solutions. The 300 MW energy storage capacity originally scheduled to be put into operation in 2031-2032 will be advanced to 2028-2029. These projects will be connected to the Ceylon Electric Power Authority’s medium voltage distribution network, enabling daytime solar energy storage and evening release, helping to enhance renewable energy consumption. Both proposals were submitted by Energy Minister Jayakodi.
