WindForce secures 13th grid-scale Rs. 1.7 b BESS project as the renewable energy developer continues to expand its footprint in Sri Lanka’s evolving energy storage sector, supporting grid stability and the integration of renewable power.
WindForce secures 13th grid-scale Rs. 1.7 b BESS project in Panadura
WindForce PLC confirmed that it has received the Letter of Award for a 10 MW/40 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project in Panadura, marking its latest addition under Sri Lanka’s inaugural national energy storage procurement initiative. The award, issued on 20 March 2026, further strengthens the company’s position within the country’s growing renewable energy Sri Lanka landscape.
The Panadura project will be developed as a standalone BESS facility under a Build-Own-Operate (BOO) model, consistent with WindForce’s approach across its portfolio. This structure allows the company to retain full ownership and operational control while delivering long-term energy solutions aligned with national grid requirements.
With an estimated investment of Rs. 1.73 billion, the project will be financed through an 80:20 debt-to-equity structure, reflecting a balanced approach to capital deployment. WindForce will hold a 100% stake in the facility, underscoring its confidence in the long-term viability of energy storage infrastructure within Sri Lanka’s power sector.
The project will operate under a 15-year contract, designed to support peak demand management and enhance overall grid reliability. Battery Energy Storage Systems play a critical role in stabilising power networks by storing excess electricity generated during low-demand periods and releasing it during peak consumption hours. This capability is increasingly important as Sri Lanka accelerates the adoption of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar, which are inherently variable in nature.
As the country transitions towards a more sustainable energy mix, investments in energy storage are becoming essential to ensure consistent power supply and operational efficiency. The development of BESS infrastructure aligns with broader national objectives to modernise the grid and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, while improving resilience against fluctuations in energy generation.
The latest project also contributes to the expansion of WindForce’s presence in the energy storage domain. With this award, the company’s cumulative portfolio under the national BESS program rises to 13 standalone projects, reinforcing its role as a key participant in Sri Lanka’s energy transition. The scale of this portfolio highlights the increasing importance of battery storage solutions in enabling the integration of renewable energy into the national grid.
Industry analysts view such developments as a positive step towards strengthening energy security. By enhancing the grid’s ability to manage supply and demand fluctuations, BESS projects can reduce the risk of power disruptions and improve overall system efficiency. This is particularly relevant in the context of Sri Lanka’s ongoing efforts to stabilise its energy sector and support economic recovery.
WindForce has indicated that it will continue to adhere to strict technical, environmental, and operational standards throughout the development of the Panadura project. Collaboration with key stakeholders, including regulatory authorities and grid operators, will be central to ensuring successful project implementation and alignment with national energy priorities.
The company’s continued investment in energy storage also reflects a broader trend within the global energy sector, where utilities and developers are increasingly incorporating battery technologies into their infrastructure strategies. These systems not only enhance grid performance but also enable greater utilisation of renewable resources, contributing to long-term sustainability goals.
Overall, WindForce secures 13th grid-scale Rs. 1.7 b BESS project represents a significant milestone in the company’s growth trajectory and underscores the critical role of energy storage in shaping Sri Lanka’s energy future. As the country advances its renewable energy Sri Lanka agenda, projects of this nature are expected to play a central role in ensuring a stable, efficient, and sustainable power system.