Sri Lanka’s renewable energy sector has taken a significant step forward as Hayleys Fentons Limited secures the 50 MegaWatt wind power project in Mannar, offering electricity at a competitive rate of 4.65 US cents per unit. The announcement was made by Udayanga Hemapala, Secretary to the Ministry of Power and Energy.
This development comes after a previous bid by Windforce PLC, which was set to receive the contract at 4.88 cents per unit, marking the lowest responsive bid at the time. However, Hayleys’ initial bid was disqualified due to technical issues. Following an appeal board review, the project has now been awarded to Hayleys Fentons.
Mannar’s coastal winds make it an ideal location for large-scale wind power generation. The state-run Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) already operates a 103.5 MegaWatt wind power plant in the region, which boasts an impressive 40% plant factor—a measure of how efficiently a power plant operates.
The high wind potential in Mannar enables lower energy costs, making it one of the most promising locations for sustainable energy expansion in Sri Lanka.
One of the notable features of the existing Mannar wind farm is its bird radar system, designed to protect migratory bird populations. When flocks are detected near the turbines, the system automatically halts energy production to prevent collisions, ensuring that renewable energy generation remains environmentally responsible.
With Sri Lanka aiming to increase its renewable energy share, this project marks another milestone in the country’s efforts to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The competitive pricing and strategic location of the new wind plant are expected to contribute significantly to the national grid while promoting cleaner energy solutions.
As Hayleys-Fentons prepares to commence operations, all eyes will be on Mannar to witness the next phase of Sri Lanka’s wind energy revolution.
