Government halts new wind power projects in Mannar

05-Nov-2025

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The government has decided not to implement any new wind power projects in Mannar beyond those already underway.

This decision follows President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s directive, issued in response to environmental and social concerns raised by local communities, that no new projects should proceed without the consent of Mannar Island residents.

Energy and Power Minister Kumar Jayakkody explained the decision at the Cabinet meeting, noting that Mannar has been identified as a high wind-resource area with three major projects planned.

The first, the Thambapavani Wind Power Plant, began operations in 2021. Two others—20 MW by Windscape Mannar Pvt. Ltd. and 50 MW by Hayleys Pentos Ltd.—were scheduled to commence in December 2025 and December 2026 respectively.

However, considering local opposition and environmental issues, the Cabinet approved the suspension of further wind power development on Mannar Island as directed by the President.