Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera unveiled the highly anticipated ‘Sri Lanka electricity bill’ in Parliament yesterday, marking a significant step towards modernizing the country’s electricity industry. Published in the Government gazette on 17 April, the bill encompasses a wide range of reforms aimed at enhancing efficiency and transparency within the sector.
Central to the proposed legislation is the creation of the National Electricity Advisory Council, tasked with providing strategic guidance and oversight to the industry. The bill also empowers the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) as the primary regulatory body responsible for ensuring fairness and competitiveness in the electricity market. Additionally, corporate entities are slated to be established to oversee all facets of electricity generation, transmission, distribution, trade, supply, and procurement.
These comprehensive reforms are geared towards fostering greater accountability and synergy across the industry segments. The bill proposes the revocation of outdated laws such as the Ceylon Electricity Board Act of 1969 and the Sri Lanka Electricity Act of 2009, signaling a shift towards contemporary industry practices and addressing emerging energy challenges.
Minister Wijesekera highlighted the extensive consultations held with industry stakeholders, with their feedback incorporated into the bill to ensure its relevance and effectiveness. However, the public is invited to scrutinize the proposed bill over the next two weeks, offering an opportunity to raise any concerns or objections before it potentially becomes law. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to carefully review the provisions and may challenge the bill in the Supreme Court if necessary.