Supporting Electricity Supply Reliability Improvement Project (SESRIP)
Introduction to the Project
Introducing the Supporting Electricity Supply Reliability Improvement Project (SESRIP) – a paramount undertaking by Ceylon Energy a strategic alliance of St Theresa Industries that stands as one of the most critical power electrification initiatives in Sri Lanka. Despite the economic challenges faced by the island nation, this project is considered vital and expected to significantly contribute to the country’s transformative economic growth.
With funding from Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) takes the lead in driving this crucial project for Sri Lanka. To execute the project successfully, the CEB has entrusted Ceylon Energy (PTE) LTD. and Qingdao Huijintong Power Equipment Co. LTD (HJT China) to work in close partnership.
The SESRIP project directly targets the development of underdeveloped regions, spanning across 106 rural electrification schemes and 2,372 kilometers (km) of low voltage line extensions. Through this approach, the project aims to ensure inclusiveness and reliable access to electricity supply for many parts of the country.
The project’s scope extends to providing electricity to approximately 35,710 rural households, including those in the former conflict-affected Northern and Eastern provinces, as well as Uva and North Central provinces where the current electrification level lags behind other parts of the country. Furthermore, the improvement of the medium voltage network will enhance the quality and reliability of electricity supply for over 493,000 consumers.
Aligned with the interim country partnership strategy for Sri Lanka by the ADB, this project builds upon previous interventions focused on supporting transmission and distribution investments, expanding access to clean and reliable electricity, and promoting renewable energy development.
The SESRIP project embodies a remarkable commitment to bridging the electricity divide and driving sustainable development across Sri Lanka. It symbolizes the collective efforts of Ceylon Energy, the CEB, HJT China, and the ADB, all working in harmony to create a brighter future for the nation.
Through this transformative initiative, we envision a Sri Lanka where every individual, irrespective of their geographical location, enjoys the benefits of reliable and accessible electricity. Together, let us empower communities, foster economic growth, and embark on a path towards a prosperous and sustainable future.
Expected outputs of the project:
- Renewable energy absorption improved
- Reliability of the medium voltage network improved
- Rural electrification network extended and distribution performance monitoring improved
- Reactive power management in the distribution system improved
Glimpse of the Current Context
Sri Lanka has made remarkable progress in its energy sector, achieving a national electrification ratio of 98% in 2014, a significant leap from a mere 29% in 1990. However, the remaining 2% of electrification poses a unique challenge, primarily concentrated in underdeveloped areas and small isolated islands across the country.
While some provinces have achieved 100% electrification, the former conflict-affected Northern and Eastern provinces lag behind with 92% and 94% electrification, respectively. Similarly, Uva and North Central provinces have achieved 95% electrification, but several districts within these provinces still fall below this level. The pressing need to improve the 33-kilovolt (kV) medium voltage network is evident to ensure system reliability and extend power supply to these rural areas. Many poor households remain unconnected, and those who are connected suffer from poor quality electricity supply.
With an installed generation capacity of 3,932 megawatts, Sri Lanka’s electricity production of 12,357 gigawatt-hours in 2014 adequately meets the current demand. The existing generation capacity is also sufficient to support further expansion of the electricity supply. The government aims to provide electricity to the population through the main grid on the main island, while employing mini-grid systems on the small isolated islands.
Current Scope in Progress
The scope of supply for this project encompasses the construction of 16 units of 33kV power distribution tower lines, spanning a combined approximate length of 292 km. Additionally, it includes the provision of 13 units of 33kV switching gantries, as outlined in the following details.
The comprehensive scope entails various key activities. These activities consist of design, manufacturing, and supply of equipment, along with rigorous testing procedures. Furthermore, the scope encompasses essential processes such as galvanizing and, where specified, painting. It also encompasses insurance coverage, meticulous packaging for export, and safe shipment to tropical climates. Upon arrival at the designated site, unloading, soil investigation, and necessary clearing for access roads, as required, will be provided.
The complete scope of work incorporates erection, thorough testing, pre- commissioning, and commissioning of the specified 33kV Medium Voltage distribution lines and 2SSBB gantries. It further encompasses the setting of equipment to initiate operations smoothly. In the event of any defects, rectification will be undertaken within the defect liability period.
By adhering to these professional standards, we strive to ensure the successful execution of the project while maintaining the highest quality and reliability of the 33kV power distribution tower lines and associated switching gantries.
List of 33kV power distribution tower lines:
- Maho GSS to Maeliya Gantry 33kV DC Tower Line
- Mallawapitiya GSS to Rathmalgoda 33 kV DC Tower Line
- Puttalum GSS to Keeriyankalliya 33kV DC Tower Line
- Wimalasurendra GSS to Maskeliya Gantry 33 kV DC Tower Line
- Ampara GSS to Uhana Gantry 33 kV DC Tower Line
- Kappalthurai Gantry to 6th Mile Post Gantry 33 kV DC Tower Line
- Irakkandy Gantry to Kumburupitiya Gantry 33kV DC Tower Line
- Choisy Gantry to Tawalantenna 33 kV DC Tower Line
- Kegalle GSS to Gavilipitiya Gantry 33 kV DC Tower Line
- Badulla GSS to Ella 33 kV DC Tower Line
- Mahiyanganaya GSS to Bibile 33 kV DC Tower Line
- Rathnapura GSS to Idangoda 33 kV DC Tower Line
- Monaragala GSS to Wellawaya 33 kV DC Tower Line
- Warukandeniya to Morawaka 33 kV DC Tower Line
- Elpitiya 11th Mile Post to Mattaka 33 kV DC Tower Line
- Matara GSS to Yakabedda Gantry 33kV DC Tower Line
List of 33kV switching gantries:
- Keeriyankalliya 33 kV Switching Gantry (2SSBB)
- Rathmalgoda 33 kV Switching Gantry (2SSBB)
- Maeliya 33 kV Switching Gantry (2SSBB)
- Maskeliya 33 kV Switching Gantry (2SSBB)
- Uhana 33 kV Switching Gantry (2SSBB)
- Irakkandy 33 kV Switching Gantry (2SSBB)
- Kumburupitiya 33 kV Switching Gantry (2SSBB)
- Ella 33 kV Switching Gantry (2SSBB)
- Bibile 33 kV Switching Gantry (2SSBB)
- Wellawaya 33 kV Switching Gantry (2SSBB)
- Morawaka 33 kV Switching Gantry (2SSBB)
- Mattaka 33 kV Switching Gantry (2SSBB)
Impact on the Environment
CEB has prepared initial environmental examinations for their components and held public consultations. Constructions are ongoing and steps are taken to minimize environmental impacts. CEB has observed the route-selection criteria in the national regulations and has adopted best environmental practices.
Ceylon Energy also has introduced novel technology as environmental friendly and sustainable solutions in reducing the adverse impact on the environment due to the project. One of the key initiatives are the introduction of the Helical Anchor solutions which is used in Sri Lankan project for the first time.
Ceylon Energy has partnered with Hubbell Power Systems USA in introducing this world renowned sustainable solution to Sri Lanka. This is a solution that will protect the essence of soil in the areas and reduce carbon emission caused by the project.
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