FTZMA Urges Activation of Power Wheeling to Slash Industrial Costs 📈

The Free Trade Zone Manufacturers’ Association (FTZMA) has formally called on the PUCSL to operationalize power wheeling under Section 13 of the Sri Lanka Electricity Act, No. 36 of 2024. The move aims to transition the industrial base toward market-based renewable energy without government subsidies. • Core Proposal The FTZMA seeks "open access," allowing industrial consumers to purchase electricity directly from independent renewable energy generators (solar, wind, mini-hydro) using the national grid for a regulated fee. This follows the March 9, 2026, restructuring of the CEB into separate corporate entities. • Economic Impact & Benefits Foreign Exchange Savings: Direct renewable purchases reduce reliance on imported coal and fuel oil, potentially saving the national balance of payments tens of millions of US dollars annually. Competitiveness: Access to cheaper, cleaner power helps apparel, manufacturing, and ICT/BPM sectors meet international green-energy mandates required by global buyers. Investment: Unlocks private capital for the renewable energy sector by providing developers a second route to market beyond the National System Operator. • Implementation Timeline The FTZMA requested the PUCSL to issue the regulatory framework, including wheeling charge methodologies and technical codes, within 90 days. The association emphasizes that regional competitors already offer these mechanisms, making immediate execution vital for Sri Lanka’s export resilience.