PM Modi gives booster shot to Sri Lanka's clean energy drive

IANS April 5, 2025 307 views

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's landmark visit to Sri Lanka has significantly boosted bilateral clean energy collaboration through the groundbreaking Sampur Solar project. The 120 MW solar initiative represents a strategic partnership aimed at transforming Sri Lanka's energy landscape and reducing electricity costs. By installing rooftop solar systems in 500 religious institutions, India is directly supporting Sri Lanka's energy security and economic growth. This visit underscores the deepening technological and economic ties between the two nations, with multiple MoUs signed across defense, digital infrastructure, and energy sectors.

"PM Modi's visit is powering a clean energy revolution" - Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister
PM Modi gives booster shot to Sri Lanka's clean energy drive
Colombo, April 5: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Saturday participated in the groundbreaking ceremony of the 120 MW Sampur Solar power project, being developed as a joint venture between the two nations.

Key Points

1

India and Sri Lanka launch joint 120 MW solar power project

2

Rooftop solar systems installed for 500 religious institutions

3

Seven bilateral MoUs signed across critical sectors

4

Comprehensive capacity building program for 700 Sri Lankans annually

The project in the island's northeastern Trincomalee district will help Sri Lanka’s transition to clean energy, reduce electricity costs for consumers, help create more jobs and stimulate growth.

PM Modi also inaugurated the supply of solar rooftop systems to 500 religious institutions in Sri Lanka, which will contribute 25 MW of electricity and enhance the energy security of various establishments.

Commenting on the development, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, said on Saturday that PM Modi’s visit to Sri Lanka "is powering a clean energy revolution".

"From the 120 MW Sampur solar project to rooftop solar systems for 500 religious institutions - energy security, reducing costs, creating jobs and driving growth," he remarked on social media platform X.

PM Modi held high-level talks with President Dissanayake and oversaw the signing of seven MoUs across key sectors, including defence, energy, digital infrastructure, health and trade.

An MoU between India and the Sri Lankan government was signed for the implementation of HVDC Interconnection for Import and Export of Power.

Another MoU between India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and the Ministry of Digital Economy of Sri Lanka provides for Cooperation in the Field of Sharing Successful Digital Solutions Implemented at Population Scale for Digital Transformation.

During the visit, PM Modi announced comprehensive capacity-building programme in India covering 700 Sri Lankans annually; India’s grant assistance for the development of Thirukoneswaram temple in Trincomalee, Sita Eliya temple in Nuwara Eliya, and Sacred City Complex project in Anuradhapura; the Exposition of Lord Buddha relics in Sri Lanka on International Vesak Day 2025; as well as the conclusion of Bilateral Amendatory Agreements on Debt Restructuring.

Reader Comments

R
Rajiv P.
This is such a positive step for regional cooperation! Clean energy projects like these benefit both countries and help combat climate change. The solar rooftops for religious institutions is a particularly thoughtful touch 🙏
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Shalini K.
While I appreciate the initiative, I hope there's proper oversight to ensure these projects actually reach completion. Sri Lanka has had issues with foreign-funded projects getting delayed in the past. The intentions are good but execution matters!
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Amal D.
The capacity-building program for 700 Sri Lankans annually is the real game-changer here. Empowering people with skills will have long-term benefits beyond just the energy sector. Well done to both leaders!
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Priya R.
Solar energy + job creation + cultural preservation (through the temple projects) = a perfect example of holistic development. This is how international partnerships should work! 👏
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Dinesh W.
The HVDC Interconnection MoU is low-key the most important part of this. Regional power grids are the future - imagine being able to share renewable energy across borders seamlessly!

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
Modi Sri Lanka Visit Solar Energy Renewable Power India-Sri Lanka Relations Clean Energy Cooperation
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