Bid Deadline Extended as Private Sector Shows High Engagement
In a promising development for Renewable Energy Sri Lanka, the proposed 100MW wind farm in Mullikulam, located in the Mannar District, has attracted significant investor interest. Power and Energy Minister Kumara Jayakody confirmed that around nine investors have already expressed interest in the project.
The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) opened up the site for private sector participation under a Build-Operate-Own (BOO) model, dividing the project into 50 units of 2MW each. Initially scheduled to close on June 12, the bid deadline has now been extended to July 9, following requests made during pre-bid meetings.
“Mannar continues to be a hotspot for wind energy and a strategic location for advancing Renewable Energy Sri Lanka,” said Minister Jayakody. The area boasts some of the best wind conditions in the country, making it a prime location for clean energy development.
The CEB’s existing wind farm in Mannar demonstrates a 40% plant factor, underscoring the site’s potential. However, energy output is slightly moderated due to bird radar systems installed to protect local wildlife.
Adding to the momentum, Sri Lanka’s Hayleys Group was recently awarded a 50MW wind project in the same region, with a competitive generation rate of 4.65 US cents per unit. The success of that project further boosts investor confidence in the country’s renewable energy strategy.