Sri Lanka has sufficient coal stocks to ensure the continuous generation and supply of electricity, Energy Minister Anura Karunathilaka said, assuring the public that no power cuts will be imposed due to coal shortages.
The Minister said a coal shipment carrying approximately 60,000 metric tonnes is expected to arrive in the country today (04).
He explained that the shipment is a replacement for a previous consignment that was rejected over quality concerns during an emergency procurement process.
Meanwhile, the procurement process for coal supplies required for the 2026/27 period has been completed, with the first shipment under the new procurement arrangement expected to reach the Norochcholai Power Plant by September 12.
According to Karunathilaka, a comprehensive plan has been put in place to ensure the uninterrupted transportation and supply of coal once the shipment arrives in Puttalam, enabling a continuous supply of fuel to the country’s largest coal-fired power plant.
The Minister stressed that there is no risk of a coal shortage affecting electricity generation, noting that the Norochcholai Coal Power Plant currently has sufficient reserves to maintain uninterrupted operations. He added that coal procured during previous periods also remains in stock.
“Another coal shipment carrying approximately 60,000 metric tonnes is expected to arrive at Norochcholai today. As a result, the Norochcholai Power Plant has more than adequate coal supplies to meet its electricity generation requirements,” the Minister said.
“Therefore, there is absolutely no need to impose power cuts due to a shortage of coal. We assure the public that electricity supply will not be disrupted because of insufficient coal stocks. We guarantee a continuous electricity supply,” he added.
