It is reported that over 100,000 homeowners who have installed solar power systems on their roofs are at serious risk.
Solar power industry professionals claim that this risky situation has arisen due to regulations introduced by the government.
‘Sathi Aga Aruna’ has reported that Javid Kamil, Chairman of the Solar Industry Association (SIA), stated, “Rooftop solar power systems alone will contribute 500 megawatts to the national electricity grid by 2024, about 5% of the national demand. Those who install solar power systems on their roofs are currently paid Rs.27 per unit if under 500 kilowatts and Rs.23 per unit if above 500 kilowatts. However, the government is attempting to reduce these rates by 30%. Under such circumstances, companies undertaking solar projects will face collapse.”
The SIA Chairman further emphasized, “A solar power system is installed with a 20-year warranty. Currently, over 100,000 people rely on these systems. If solar companies shut down, maintaining these systems will become impossible. We urge the government to maintain the current price paid per kilowatt unit and not impose reductions.”
The Chairman of the Solar Industry Association has further pointed out “The Ceylon Electricity Board’s statement that rooftop solar power systems were responsible for the island-wide power outage that occurred on February 9, 2025, is completely false. We urge the government to appoint an independent committee to investigate this matter. Based on that incident, the Ceylon Electricity Board has requested that rooftop solar energy systems be shut down every Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.”
