Low-Quality Coal Imports Cause Power Shortages, MP Nalin Bandara Reports

04-Apr-2026

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Nalin Bandara, MP of the United People’s Power, stated that low-quality coal imported for Norochcholai power plant has led to reduced electricity generation and substantial losses.

Addressing the media on April 3, he explained that coal from the 13th shipment is currently being used, but electricity output remains significantly below normal. Only two-thirds of generated power meets standard output due to inferior coal quality.

Hydroelectric water levels have also sharply declined, with only 15–20% of electricity coming from reservoirs. Fuel shortages have forced the plant to rely on diesel instead of furnace oil.

Bandara further noted that Minister of Power Kumar Jayakody has been stationed at Norochcholai to oversee operations, attempting to bypass standard procedures, and that the head of the Ceylon Electricity Board is retiring soon, likely to be replaced by a close associate of the minister.

Despite calls for immediate removal of the corrupt ministerial oversight, no action has been taken. Citizens are reducing fuel and electricity usage to cope, which is detrimental to national development.