New SHPDA Chief charts reset for small hydro sector

Small Hydro Power Developers Association President Pathmanatha Poddiwala pledges renewed direction amid sector challenges

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THE newly elected Small Hydro Power Developers Association (SHPDA) President Pathmanatha Poddiwala recently vowed to steer the associa structural and regulatory change, pledging stronger advocacy, innovation, and collaboration to ensure the continued growth of the country's renewable energy sector.

Speaking after his election, Poddiwala said it was a great honour to lead one of the country's oldest renewable energy associations, which currently contributes nearly 450 MW of firm power to the national grid at some of the lowest costs in the energy mix.

He paid tribute to the outgoing President Thusitha and the executive committee for their "exemplary leadership" through three consecutive and challenging terms marked by the pandemic and post-crisis policy transitions.

Poddiwala acknowledged that the renewable energy industry is facing an unprecedented set of challenges, describing the current period as "turbulent weather" for small hydro power developers.