Wind power projects essential despite minimal environmental impact: SLSEA Chief

Colombo, May 29 (Daily Mirror) - While wind power projects are hailed as a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels, their construction does involve certain environmental impacts, Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority (SLSEA) Chairman Professor Wijendra Bandara acknowledged today.

Speaking to the media following the official signing of a landmark Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for a 50MW wind power project in Mannar with HayWind, a subsidiary of Hayleys Fentons, Professor Bandara explained that preparing land for wind turbines requires concrete foundations and other civil work, inevitably causing some degree of environmental disturbance.

“It’s impossible to implement any sustainable energy project without some level of environmental impact,” Professor Bandara said. “However, the benefits and risks must be carefully balanced, ensuring that long-term advantages are passed on to the people.”

Professor Bandara noted that renewable energy sources such as hydropower, wind and solar remain far more environmentally friendly than fossil fuel-based power generation.

“These projects play a crucial role in replacing power generation methods that contribute heavily to carbon dioxide emissions and long-term environmental degradation,” he added.

To minimise adverse effects, all wind power projects will be carried out in strict accordance with Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) reports, which outline measures to mitigate potential damage to ecosystems.

Elaborating on the benefits of the newly signed agreement, the SLSEA Chairman said the Mannar wind project would help ease pressure on the national grid while reducing dependency on imported fossil fuels, a significant burden on the country’s foreign reserves.

“This initiative alone will save the government billions of rupees. A single megawatt of wind power can save approximately Rs.230 million annually by replacing fossil fuel-based generation. Scaling up to 50MW in Mannar represents an enormous economic advantage,” Professor Bandara revealed.

In light of the country’s ongoing energy challenges, Professor Bandara urged policymakers to fast-track the adoption of indigenous renewable resources for electricity generation. 

“This is a timely opportunity for Sri Lanka to harness its natural resources, reduce foreign dependency, and secure a cleaner, more sustainable energy future,” he added.