Sri Lanka’s Norochcholai Power Plant is confronting a potential energy shortfall this year as coal imports fail to meet the plant’s requirements, according to Frontline Socialist Party Education Secretary Pubudu Jayagoda. Speaking to local media on the 25th, Jayagoda revealed that the plant needs between 36 and 40 shipments of coal annually, each carrying 60,000 metric tons, but tenders have so far been issued for only 25 shipments. He noted that 13 ships had been imported previously, leaving a significant gap in supply.
The Norochchola plant’s coal season runs from April 30 to the end of September, and so far nine shipments have arrived this month. Jayagoda explained that even if imports continue at maximum capacity in March and April, an additional ten shipments could be unloaded. With current operations averaging four shipments per month, only about 19 ships are expected to be received this year, potentially creating a shortfall of six shipments.
Adding to the concern, there are allegations that the coal imported previously was of substandard quality. Jayagoda warned that lower-quality coal would require greater quantities to generate the target 900 megawatts of electricity across the three Norochchola plants. This inefficiency could exacerbate the shortage and place additional strain on the energy supply.
Officials also highlighted the risk posed by potential decreases in rainfall, which would reduce hydroelectric generation and increase reliance on coal-fired power. In that scenario, any gap in coal supply would force the plant to turn to fuel-based generation, which comes at a significantly higher cost. Jayagoda emphasized that reliance on fuel would impose a substantial financial burden, raising concerns about energy security and electricity prices across the country.
