CEB won’t be divested, says Chairman

By Ifham Nizam

The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) will not be privatised, CEB Chairman Nalinda Illangakoon yesterday said, adding that the Generation and Distribution branches would come under the Companies Act but remain under the government control.

Responding to queries about the proposed electricity tariff hike in the pipeline, the CEB Chairman said there was a need for price increases because it cost the CEB between Rs. 56 and 54 to produce a unit of electricity but it was sold at Rs. 29.00.

Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera has said that though the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) Chairman says the proposed tariff revision is illegal, the Ministry of Power and Energy will obtain approval from the country’s Attorney General.

He expressed concern about PUCSL Chairman Janaka Rathnayaka’s decision to provide electricity to the hotels and apartments at a lower rate.

“We will reveal details on it soon,” he added.

“The PUCSL Chairman is creating issues as his misdeeds are exposed,” the Minister added.

The PUCSL Chief yesterday warned that some elements were attempting to increase electricity tariffs by instilling fear among the public.

He was critical about the Minister warning of extended power cuts next year if electricity tariffs are not increased.

The Minister also said the CEB had decided to introduce paperless bills and receipts to all customers from January 2023.