Colombo, Oct 28 — In a significant step towards enhancing energy collaboration, India has delivered rooftop solar systems to several religious sites in Sri Lanka, as announced by the Indian High Commission. The initiative, which includes solar panels and installation materials, benefited a Buddhist temple in Hokandara, the Sri Aanjaneyar Temple, St. Anthony’s Church, and Mutwal Jumma Mosque.
This initiative is part of a broader USD 17 million project aimed at installing 25 MW of solar rooftop systems across 5,000 religious institutions throughout Sri Lanka. Designed to lower energy costs and facilitate the nation’s transition to renewable energy, the project will cover all nine provinces and 25 districts, supplying approximately 37 million units of electricity annually.
“The project is designed to reduce energy costs for these institutions while bolstering Sri Lanka’s transition to clean energy,” stated the Indian High Commission. It is expected to be completed by early next year and includes a five-year maintenance plan to ensure long-term effectiveness and sustainability.
This effort aligns with India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy, which emphasizes cooperation based on Sri Lanka’s energy priorities. Other renewable initiatives include the solar electrification of around 9,000 Buddhist temples and Pirivenas with a grant of USD 10 million, as well as hybrid renewable energy projects in the islands off Jaffna. Major projects also include LNG supply and infrastructure development, along with a solar power plant in Sampur.
