Forced renewable power shutdowns will end next year: NSO

BESS projects totalling over 400 MW expected to eliminate forced shutdowns of solar and wind generation

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THE National System Operator (NSO) expects to end the forced curtailment of renewable energy generation next year as battery energy storage system (BESS) projects are integrated into Sri Lanka’s electricity network, NSO Chairman Dr. Pradeep Perera told the Committee on Public Finance (CoPF) this week.

The NSO is the newly created entity that manages and operates the electricity grid after the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) split into four. The commitment comes amid growing criticism from renewable energy developers over the repeated shutdown of solar and wind power generation during weekends and public holidays despite favourable generation conditions.

Appearing before the CoPF alongside officials from the Energy Ministry, Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL), Treasury, and power sector institutions, Dr. Perera acknowledged concerns over the continued curtailment of renewable energy, particularly during periods of low electricity demand.