Western Power Company’s WtE plant converts illicit cigarettes into electricity

In collaboration with Sri Lanka Customs and Ceylon Tobacco Company PLC, Western Power Company (Pvt.) Ltd, a subsidiary of Aitken Spence PLC, facilitated the secure thermal destruction of a large consignment of illicit cigarettes. 

The consignment, which had been seized by Sri Lanka Customs, was destroyed recently at Western Power’s Waste-to-Energy (WtE) Plant in Kerawalapitiya.

The destroyed shipment consisted of approximately 3.1 million cigarettes, with a total weight of 4,450 kilogrammes. Delivered in a 20-foot container, the consignment was estimated by Ceylon Tobacco Company to hold a market value exceeding Rs.470 million. The entire volume was irreversibly incinerated using advanced WtE technology, ensuring that the illicit goods could not re-enter the market. This process generated over 1,500 kilowatt-hours of electricity, which was supplied to the national grid.

Aitken Spence Power Sector Managing Director Leel Wickremarachchi commented, “As a responsible energy partner, we are committed to supporting national efforts in curbing illegal trade. By safely incinerating this consignment, we not only helped prevent a significant loss to state revenue but also contributed to sustainable energy production. Our WtE plant will continue to serve as a vital resource in upholding environmental and regulatory standards in Sri Lanka.”

Western Power Company operates Sri Lanka’s first and only WtE power plant, which has been converting non-recyclable waste into clean energy since its official launch four years ago. The 10 MW facility contributes electricity to the national grid—enough to power approximately 100,000 households—while playing a crucial role in responsible waste management.

This collaboration underscores the importance of multi-stakeholder engagement in safeguarding public interests, protecting state revenue and advancing the country’s green energy agenda.