CEB hits panic buttons as court case holds up delivery of fresh shipments of coal

The country’s sole coal fired power plant complex at Norochcholai which generates nearly 900MW to the national grid would have to be shut down unless fresh coal shipments are received before 25 October 25, according to a top CEB official.

The official said that the plant should not be stopped because the restarting process would cost nearly Rs. 50 million and take seven to 10 days.

Public Utilities Commission Chairman Janaka Ratnayake yesterday told The Island that the Treasury, the Central Bank and the CEB should act fast. “Our coal stocks are enough only till 25 October 25. The tender has been awarded but due to a court case some complications have arisen.’

There are two more shipments to arrive and USD 50 million dollars will be needed for them.

Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesejkera said that Lanka Coal Company, which awarded a contract to supply coal on credit, had refused to go ahead with it until legal clearance was given.