The People’s Struggle Alliance Party (PSA) yesterday (12) pointed out that the non-implementation of the recommendations issued to address various technical issues affecting the power generation process of the Lakvijaya Coal Power Plant in Norochcholai is one of the key concerns that came to light with the islandwide power outage that occurred on 9 February.

The Alliance’s member Tharindu Uduwaragedara told the media that when similar power outages occurred in 2020, 2021, and 2023 and when the power generation process at the plant was discussed, the relevant recommendations were issued, which he claimed were however not implemented. He urged the Government to initiate a more open discussion about the matter and pointed out the importance of addressing the issues the said recommendations aim to address.

Claiming that what he referred to as the ‘electricity mafia’ is likely behind the resistance to renewable energy-based power generation and electricity purchases in the current context, he further said: “The Government must identify this situation and take immediate action.”

In addition, Uduwaragedara alleged that continuous issues in the generation and supply of electricity could be a plot to eventually privatise the Ceylon Electricity Board. He added that the Government must protect the sector, and not allow external parties with detrimental intentions to interfere in the sector.

The Energy Ministry was not reachable yesterday (12) to discuss the said recommendations or implementation.