Sri Lanka’s First “Water Battery” Project Moves Forward

The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) has announced significant progress on the Maha Oya Pumped Storage Hydropower Project, Sri Lanka’s first-ever “Water Battery.”

This groundbreaking 600 MW project, located in Aranayake and Nawalapitiya, will store excess solar and wind energy to enhance grid stability, supporting the nation’s goal of generating 70% of its electricity from renewables by 2030. The system will feature two reservoirs connected by a 2.5 km tunnel, acting as a large-scale energy storage solution.

By reducing reliance on fossil fuels and cutting carbon emissions, the project will be a key driver in Sri Lanka’s transition to sustainable energy.

At a recent meeting, international development partners were briefed on the project’s financial roadmap, with plans to secure long-term funding from global agencies to ensure affordability for consumers while minimizing impacts on electricity tariffs.

The Maha Oya project marks a major step toward energy independence, economic growth, job creation, and environmental sustainability. The CEB has called on all stakeholders to support this initiative and help shape Sri Lanka’s greener, more resilient energy future.

Source: Daily Mirror