Minister Failed to Prevent Power Supply Disruptions: MP Sathiyalingam

13-Apr-2026

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ITAK MP Sathiyalingam stated that with an estimated loss of Rs. 8.5 billion due to low-quality coal, steps must be taken in the future to prevent further financial losses.

He said the Minister had failed to ensure sufficient and quality coal for the Norochcholai power plant, and as a result failed to reduce institutional losses and prevent disruptions to electricity supply.

He made these remarks while speaking in Parliament during the debate on the no-confidence motion against Minister Kumara Jayakody held on April 10.

He said his party initially believed the motion was unnecessary since the matter was already being investigated by the Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE) and was pending in the Colombo High Court. However, based on findings in the National Audit Office report, he said the issue could not be treated lightly.

He stated that Sri Lanka’s energy sector historically represents a combination of national security, economic stability, and public trust, and that the no-confidence motion was based on constitutional, ethical, and administrative grounds.

He noted that the motion, signed by the Opposition Leader and 35 MPs, was based on three key concerns and emphasised that MPs must act with integrity and accountability to protect public trust.

He stated that the PUCSL had confirmed that coal imported between December 2025 and February 2026 had significantly low calorific value, leading to a shortfall of over 150 MW in generation at Norochcholai.

He added that, according to the CEB Engineers’ Union, the upcoming dry season could cause a severe coal shortage that may result in major power cuts.