Economic giants also victims of economic crisis – Dr Amunugama

Ridma DISSANAYAKE

The world is facing an economic crisis. Countries deemed economic giants have also become victims of this crisis including India and China, International Monetary Co-operation Senior Minister and Finance and Planning Deputy Minister Dr Sarath Amunugama said.

“The power and energy sectors can decide the fate of a country’s economy. The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB), Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) and the National Water Supply and Drainage Board are considered as the base of the country’s economy,” he said.

Regulatory bodies such as the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) has the ability to take decisions that could make vital changes in these sectors which will have a bearing on the country’s development, Dr Amunugama said.

The power and energy sector plays a vital role in the country’s development and human lives. In such a situation, this sector has to remain at peak efficiency to serve the country’s development and uplift the livelihood of the people, he said.

Addressing the launching ceremony of the Online Electricity Consumers Complaints Handling System, new website and the Out Look 2013 of the PUCSL, Dr Amunugama said Sri Lanka is the only Asian country which supplies round the clock electricity without a break .

“This, no doubt is a great plus point in attracting foreign investment to Sri Lanka. All other countries stop their power supply at a certain period during the day. Sri Lanka’s electricity consumers can now electronically upload the required documentation pertaining to disputes concerning power supply,” the minister said.

He said upon registering and entering the information into the consumer dispute resolution system, consumers can track the progress and corrective measures taken in resolving such disputes.

This new website will also provide electricity consumers, energy sector investors and stakeholders with up to date information on electricity tariffs and regulations, Dr Amunugama said.

“The government spends a huge sum to develop the country. In such a situation, the authorities should know how to derive the maximum benefits from that money using modern knowledge and technology while discarding ancient views, beliefs and policies, ” he said.

“For example, the CEB should pay attention towards building medium and small scale power plants to meet the country’s energy requirement. State institutions should work with the assistance of the private sector as well,” the senior minister said.

He said every part of Sri Lanka should be geared to face the competitive global environment.

PUCSL chairman Dr Jayatissa de Costa said the PUCSL saved around Rs 86 billion for the government during the last two and half years.

“There are 5.5 million electricity metres in Sri Lanka. PUCSL plays a vital role in the country’s power and energy sector.

We have already solved a number of disputes related to electricity connections and disconnections. We hope to continue our service in the petroleum industry within the next few years,” he said.