⚡ PUCSL Resets Renewable Tariffs & Sets 450 MW Solar-BESS Target

The Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) has introduced a revised three-tier feed-in tariff structure effective today through 24 February 2027. The move mandates adding minimum battery-backed solar capacity to prevent expected Q1 2027 power shortages. • Key Targets & System Requirements: • National System Operator (NSO) must add at least 450 MW of solar PV paired with Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) by March 2027. • BESS procurement cost cap: NSO must keep unit costs for the existing 160 MW BESS at or below Rs. 20/kWh (monthly average); excess costs will not be passed to consumers. • Grid integration rule: Prosumers with systems ≥100 kW will need a generation licence upon new regulatory enactments. • Tariff Rates for Standalone Renewables: • Mini-hydro: Non-escalable Rs. 30.37/kWh + O&M Rs. 4.50/kWh. • Wind: Non-escalable Rs. 20.80/kWh + O&M Rs. 4.93/kWh. • Ground-mounted solar: Non-escalable Rs. 18.00/kWh + O&M Rs. 2.72/kWh. • Floating solar: Non-escalable Rs. 23.58/kWh + O&M Rs. 3.92/kWh. • Dendro biomass: Fuel component Rs. 31.20/kWh. • Agri/Industrial waste biomass: Fuel component Rs. 17.80/kWh. • Enhanced Tariffs with Battery Storage (BESS): • Ground-mounted solar + BESS: Rs. 47.08/kWh during prioritized periods (Rs. 20.72/kWh off-peak). • Floating solar + BESS: Rs. 53.28/kWh during prioritized periods (Rs. 27.50/kWh off-peak). • Rooftop solar (Standard): Ranges from Rs. 23.11/kWh (≤10 kW) down to Rs. 15.81/kWh (>250 kW to 1 MW). • Rooftop solar + BESS (>250 kW - 1 MW): Premium rate of Rs. 45.53/kWh for the first 15 years during peak periods.