Generator Unit 1 at the Lakvijaya Power Plant in Norochcholai remains out of operation following a technical failure linked to the nationwide power outage on October 17, 2026, Cabinet Spokesperson Nalinda Jayatissa said.
Responding to questions from journalists, Jayatissa rejected opposition allegations that substandard coal had contributed to the failure.
He said the generator had been shut down for maintenance for 62 days, from July 30 to September 30, and that coal from new shipments had been used for power generation since September 4.
“There is no link between the coal quality and this incident, as the coal being used since September 4 is from new shipments,” he said.
Asked about the financial losses caused by the power outage, Jayatissa said the opposition was calculating the figures and would announce them next week.
“Our job is to restore the system,” he said.
Jayatissa expressed hope that the power plant would return to normal operations from tomorrow, in line with assurances given by the authorities.
