There is a risk of electricity tariffs increasing if the expected rainfall is not received in the coming period, according to Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna National Organiser and Member of Parliament D.V. Chanaka.
He made these remarks while appearing on the Derana 360 programme.
Chanaka claimed that although the current government had pledged to reduce electricity tariffs by one-third, rates have already increased by around one-third compared with previous levels.
He warned that any further increase in electricity tariffs could place an unbearable burden on the public and the tourism industry, particularly with the upcoming tourist season.
The MP said that rainfall received in recent months had helped generate a certain amount of hydropower, while solar energy had contributed to stabilising the electricity system during daytime hours.
However, he noted that insufficient rainfall in the coming period could result in a greater reliance on costly fuels such as furnace oil and diesel for electricity generation.
Chanaka further claimed that only around 10 per cent of the losses related to coal had been incorporated into the previous electricity tariff revision. He said the remaining costs may eventually have to be covered either through tax revenue or by electricity consumers.
He added that it would be difficult to fully overcome the situation until new coal supplies arrive and electricity generation using those supplies resumes.
Chanaka therefore warned that electricity tariffs could rise again unless sufficient rainfall is received in the coming period.
