Tariff hike proposed but rates still lower: CEB

Colombo, May 18 (Daily Mirror) - The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) has assured that despite the proposed tariff adjustments for the second half of 2025, the electricity rates will still remain lower than they were at the beginning of the year.

In a statement issued today, the CEB announced that it has submitted its latest tariff proposal to the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL), emphasising the need to ensure financial sustainability while maintaining a reliable and uninterrupted power supply.

The Board highlighted that electricity tariffs remained unchanged from 2014 to 2022, even as costs related to power generation, transmission and distribution rose significantly. 

“Fuel prices, coal, spare parts and maintenance costs rose steadily during that period, but the CEB continued to supply electricity without raising prices while absorbing the financial impact,” the statement noted.

This approach, according to the CEB, led to extensive borrowing and delays in payments to suppliers culminating in what the Board now refers to as its “legacy debt.”

The proposed tariff adjustment, the CEB said, is intended to gradually recover essential operational costs, manage this legacy debt, and ensure timely payments to suppliers. The move is considered vital for maintaining uninterrupted electricity services throughout the country.

Reaffirming its commitment to keeping electricity affordable, the CEB said it is actively working on long-term sector reforms, including the adoption of low-cost energy sources and efficiency improvements, to reduce costs and strengthen energy security.

The CEB concluded its statement by expressing gratitude to the public for their continued support and cooperation as it navigates toward a more sustainable and stable electricity supply for all Sri Lankans.