Sri Lanka has commenced construction of the country’s largest renewable energy project — the Siyambalanduwa “Rividanavi” Solar Power Park — marking a major step toward the national target of generating 70% of electricity from renewable energy by 2030. The project was officially launched this morning (6 September) under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

With an investment of USD 140 million, the solar park will add 100 MW of capacity to the national grid and is expected to generate 219 GWh annually. Built across 500 acres in Monaragala District, the project is projected to save Sri Lanka Rs. 21 billion in foreign exchange each year by reducing diesel imports for power generation, while cutting carbon dioxide emissions by around 150,000 metric tonnes annually.

The facility will also include a 12 MWh battery storage system to enhance grid stability. A new 132 kV transmission line, stretching 27 kilometres, and a grid substation in Monaragala will be developed to connect the park to the national electricity system. This marks the first power project in Sri Lanka where the investor is building the transmission system.

The Rividanavi project is being developed by Rivi Danavi Pvt Ltd, a joint venture between Lakdhanavi Ltd. and WindForce PLC, and is expected to be completed in early 2027. Officials said the project will bring significant socio-economic benefits, including scholarships for students, new water supply schemes, reservoir restoration, and vocational training upgrades.

Energy Minister Kumara Jayakody described the initiative as a turning point in Sri Lanka’s energy sector, highlighting it as proof of the government’s commitment to supporting investors and ensuring energy independence. Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority Chairman Professor Wijendra Bandara also praised the expedited approval process for the project and called for a streamlined, single-window mechanism to facilitate future investments.

The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, provincial leaders, and representatives of the Ceylon Electricity Board and Sustainable Energy Authority.