Expert warns substandard coal could cripple Norochcholai Plant

24 February 2026 10:23 am Views - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}} 15 Bookmark

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By Mangala Pavithrani

Colombo, Feb 24 (Daily Mirror) - Energy expert Dr. Vidura Ralapanawa has warned that the continued use of substandard imported coal at the Lakvijaya (Norochcholai) Power Plant could severely damage its generators and boilers, posing a serious threat to the country’s power supply.

Addressing the media, he said that while the previously imported coal is still being used at the plant, a complete shift to newly imported coal will be required from March 1 as existing stocks run out.

Dr. Ralapanawa cautioned that the harmful composition of the new coal could cause long-term and extensive damage to the plant’s machinery if used continuously.

“The coal brought from South Africa is currently being used only for a limited period of about 10 to 16 hours, as earlier stocks are still available. However, once those stocks are exhausted after March 1, officials will have to rely entirely on the new coal. The biggest concern is the potential damage to the machines if this substandard coal is used round the clock,” he explained.

He further noted that prolonged use of inferior coal could result in serious damage to boilers and generators at Norochcholai. With hydroelectric power generation already limited due to prevailing dry weather conditions, any breakdown of two or three generating units could destabilise the entire national grid.

“If such a situation arises, the country’s energy security will be at grave risk. Authorities may also be compelled to increase electricity tariffs to unbearable levels,” he warned.

Dr. Ralapanawa urged authorities to immediately consult relevant engineers and energy experts, obtain proper technical guidance, and implement a structured management process to prevent potential damage and avert a looming power crisis.