India has extended its energy partnership with Sri Lanka by providing rooftop solar systems to various religious sites across the island nation. This initiative is part of India’s broader $17 million solar project, which seeks to install 25 MW solar rooftop systems across 5,000 religious institutions.
According to reports, representatives from the Indian High Commission, Ceylon Electricity Board, and Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority jointly handed over solar panels and materials to several locations, including a Buddhist temple in Hokandara, Sri Aanjaneyar Temple, St. Anthony’s Church, and Mutwal Jumma Mosque.
The project, spread across all nine provinces and 25 districts, aims to alleviate energy costs for religious institutions while bolstering Sri Lanka’s transition to renewable energy. It is expected to generate 37 million units annually, aiding Sri Lanka’s “people-centric energy transition” goals.
This solar initiative aligns with India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy, fostering cooperation on Sri Lankan priorities. Additionally, India is supporting the electrification of 9,000 Buddhist temples and Pirivenas with a $10 million grant and hybrid renewable energy and LNG projects, enhancing the energy landscape in Sri Lanka’s Jaffna region.
