Cabinet Halts New Wind Projects on Mannar Island Without Local Consent

The Cabinet of Ministers has agreed to a Presidential directive to halt the implementation of new wind power projects on Mannar Island unless the consent of the local community is secured.

Mannar Island has been identified as a zone with high wind power potential, and the island’s renewable energy plan includes several projects. The Thambapavani wind power plant is already operational. However, due to public concerns raised over the environmental and social issues resulting from these projects, the President informed relevant authorities to prioritize local resident consent for any further development.

The decision affects two planned projects:

1. Windscape Mannar (Pvt) Ltd: A 20-megawatt project slated for operation in December 2025.
2. Hayleys Fentons: A 50-megawatt project planned for December 2026.

The Minister of Power and Energy informed the Cabinet of the President’s notification, and the Cabinet subsequently gave its nod to take action in accordance with the directive.

Source:

https://www.dailymirror.lk/breaking-news/Cabinet-nod-to-halt-new-wind-power-projects-on-Mannar-Island/108-324098