Uninterrupted power, zero carbon emissions targetted

Ramani KANGARAARACHCHI

Minister Ranawaka

The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) hopes to achieve zero carbon emissions growth rate by 2020 providing sustainable energy services with minimum environmental impact, Power and Energy Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka said.

Speaking on “Our Energy Future” at the CIMA Business Leaders Summit 2011 yesterday, he said this will be done based on the Triple E concept energy, economy and environment.

Under this concept optimum economic benefits will be provided to the nation by supplying a reliable uninterrupted energy services at the least economic cost without depending on imported fuels.

Minister Ranawaka said basic energy services will be available for people at an affordable price and quality uninterrupted secondary power will be given at a cost reflective tariff. “If the state owned utilities run at a loss at the end, public will have to bear that loss under corporate shared value. However, the intention is not to enhance CEB’s financial profits but enhance shared values that may enhance profits and dividends to all. Although it is not mandatory for institutions like the CEB which provides a national service to make profits but it should at least run effectively without making a loss,” he said.

It is necessary to improve the financial situation of CEB to restructure the organization with focus on business module. Improving revenue collection, close monitoring of financial performance, impose strict controls on energy wastage and illegal electricity tapping are some other reasons to improve financial situation of the CEB, the Minister said.

Referring to its five year plan Ranawaka said the CEB will be financially stable by 2015 and not be a burden to the national economy.