Adds 10MW of renewable, sustainable energy to National Grid
Nirmalapura Wind Power (Pvt) Ltd commenced commercial operation on the 9th of August 2012, and is expected to add 10 megawatts to the National Grid through its wind turbine generators. The venture is the latest step towards boosting the power requirements of the nation through sustainable ‘green’ energy and renewable energy in Sri Lanka.
Situated in Kalpitiya on Sri Lanka’s western coast, the plant was opened in the presence of Chief Guest Hon .Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka and several other dignitaries. The project was carried out under the auspices of the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority.
Speaking at the event, Chairman and Chief Executive of Hayleys, Mr. Mohan Pandithage said “Renewable energy is becoming increasingly significant in our growing, energy-reliant economy. Over the years Hayleys has successfully contributed to sustainable development through hydro and wind power generation. Hayleys currently provides 5.4 megawatts of hydro energy to the national grid and is developing several plants in order to provide 15 megawatts in the future.”
Hayleys and consortium partner Windforce Pvt Ltd were instrumental in providing the capital and technology necessary to build the wind power plant. “Wind power reinforces numerous renewable energy investments made by Hayleys across the electricity generation spectrum. The Nirmalapura 10 megawatts wind plant will contribute to supporting the nation’s power generation requirements and addressing the demands of the future today,” said Mr. Pandithage.
Wind power is widely recognised as Sri Lanka’s best natural resource after hydro power, due to the country’s substantial monsoon winds. The farm of wind turbine generators has seven turbines, each producing 1.5 MW of power.
Power plants currently operated by Hayleys provide 5.5MW of energy to the National Grid. The Group also provides complete turnkey solutions, develops and construct power houses, and supplies turbine generators for renewable power projects which currently supply the National Grid with a total of 9.5 MW. Recogen, a Hayleys Group Company operates the world’s only pollution-free charcoaling plant, which generates electricity from waste heat, contributing towards reducing fossil fuel driven power generation – an initiative that earned the company rights to trade-in carbon credits under the Kyoto Protocol.
Adjudged Sri Lanka’s Best Corporate Citizen four times, the Hayleys Group employs more than 30,000 people, and accounts for 2.51 per cent of the country’s export income.
