During the course of their visit to Sri Lanka, a high-level Thai delegation led by H.E. Ms. Busadee Santipitaks, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand, together with H.E. Mr. Paitoon Mahapannaporn, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to Sri Lanka, visited Hayleys Fabric PLC in conjunction with Hayleys Solar, the renewable energy arm of Hayleys Fentons, to explore renewable energy solutions incorporated into the operations of the factory.
The delegation consisted of officials from various Thai agencies and private sector representatives, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Energy, Royal Thai Embassy of Sri Lanka, Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), PTT Public Company Limited, and Global Power Synergy Public Company Limited. Guided by the directives of the Prime Minister of Thailand, the delegation’s visit aimed to explore the potential for future cooperation in renewable energy, with a particular focus on electricity generation in Sri Lanka.
H.E. Mr. Paitoon Mahapannaporn, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to Sri Lanka, said the visit was successful and has only strengthened their belief in the importance of international cooperation for sustainable energy solutions, and it was a great opportunity for the delegation to learn about Sri Lanka’s renewable energy sector.
During the visit, Hayleys Fabric showcased their successful adoption of solar power, demonstrating their commitment to sustainable practices. This included a presentation detailing their 4.6 MW contribution to the national grid, resulting in a significant 15% reduction in their carbon footprint. The delegation was also briefed on the company’s advanced solar installations, notably the expansive rooftop system and the innovative pilot floating solar plant with a capacity of 35.19 kWp, comprising of 63 panels installed by Hayleys Solar.
The delegation led by H.E. Mrs. Busadee Santipitaks, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand, together with H.E. Mr. Paitoon Mahapannaporn, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to Sri Lanka, included members from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand: Mrs. Vipavee Rangsimaporn, Director of the South Asian and Central Asian Division; Mr. Sakkorn Janyaphadungpong, Counsellor; Ms. Ploy Sukthavorn, First Secretary; and Mr. Yahya Wongkanya, First Secretary.
The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) was represented by Mr. Supachai Koonsad, Director to the Deputy Governor, Mr. Kraisorn Limchaikit, and Mr. Sethaphan Kavenapho, Assistant Vice President, Business Development, representing the Electricity Generating Authority International (EGATi). PTT Public Company Limited was represented by Mr. Chanon Thaicharoen and Mr. Prakit Roatphunyakit. Global Power Synergy Public Company Limited (GPSC) was represented by Mr. Suabtragool Khowinij, Mr. Pahol Chaloeykitti, along with Mr. Padmadewa Samaranayake from the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority (SLSEA). In addition, the Royal Thai Embassy attendees, Mr. Arthit Prasartkul, Deputy Head of Mission; Ms. Prangthip Kongridhisuksakorn, Counsellor; Mrs. Patalee Warnakulasooriya; and Mrs. Rasaiya Sanjeewani, were present.
The Hayleys Fabric team was led by Mr. Rohan Goonetilleke, Managing Director; Mr. Prasanna Pathirana, Executive Director; and Mr. Mahesh Perera, Deputy General Manager-Engineering. The Hayleys Solar team was represented by Mr. Hasith Prematillake, Managing Director of Hayleys Fentons; Mrs. Roshani Dharmaratne, Director of Business Development; and Mr. Nisala Amarasekara, Deputy General Manager of Corporate Projects for Hayleys Solar.
“I am pleased to witness Hayleys’ contribution in promoting renewable energy integration,” commented Mr. Padmadewa Samaranayake (SLSEA), who acknowledged the crucial role of private-public partnerships like these in bridging the gap between sustainable energy initiatives and practical implementation, ensuring a more environmentally conscious future for all stakeholders involved.
“We are privileged to be the only corporate entity chosen for this esteemed visit by the delegation from the Kingdom of Thailand,” said Rohan Goonetilleke, Managing Director for Hayleys Fabric PLC. “At Hayleys Fabric, environmental stewardship and carbon footprint reduction are paramount. Our strategic partnership with Hayleys Solar solidifies our position as a sustainability pioneer in the textile sector.”
“We are extremely delighted to be a part of the country’s renewable energy development progress, exploring floating solar,” mentioned Hasith Prematillake, Managing Director of Hayleys Fentons.
