Green energy
Sri Lanka’s transition toward clean energy reached a significant milestone with the groundbreaking of the 50MW Mannar Wind Power Project in the northern Mannar region. The ceremony was presided over by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, underscoring the national importance of the initiative in advancing the country’s renewable energy ambitions.
Developed and financed by HayWind One Limited, a subsidiary of Hayleys PLC, the project represents a major addition to Sri Lanka’s growing renewable energy portfolio. Envision Energy, a global leader in green technology, will supply 10 EN-156/5.0MW wind turbines, delivering a total installed capacity of 50MW. Once operational, the wind farm is expected to generate approximately 207 million kWh of clean electricity annually.
Engineered to maximise Mannar’s strong and consistent wind conditions, the turbines feature a hub height of 110 metres, enabling higher energy yields and improved overall project economics. The project marks Envision Energy’s first utility-scale wind turbine order in Sri Lanka and is scheduled for commissioning by March 2027. It also represents a significant step in the company’s continued expansion across South Asia.
Given Mannar’s challenging coastal climate, characterised by high salinity and humidity, Envision Energy has incorporated a customised high anti-corrosion solution to enhance turbine durability and long-term reliability. In addition, the company will provide comprehensive lifecycle operations and maintenance services to ensure optimal performance throughout the project’s 20-year design lifespan.
Winston Xu, General Manager of Southeast Region at Envision Energy, emphasised Sri Lanka’s strategic role in South Asia’s energy transition. He noted that the country’s competitive wind resources make it well-positioned for renewable growth. By combining proven wind technology, tailored solutions for complex coastal environments, and global delivery and service expertise, Envision aims to deliver higher energy output, greater reliability, and lasting value to Sri Lanka’s national grid and communities.
Hasith Prematillake, Managing Director of Hayleys Fentons Limited, the parent company of HayWind One Limited, highlighted the broader impact of the project. He described it as an effort to power Sri Lankan households with clean, locally generated energy while helping make electricity more affordable nationwide. He also expressed hope that the Mannar initiative would serve as a model for future renewable energy developments across the country.
Roshane Perera, Director and CEO of Hayleys Solar, underscored the importance of local expertise in delivering the project. He stated that a highly experienced team of Sri Lankan engineers and project managers has been mobilised to navigate the technical complexities of the Mannar site. By leveraging deep local knowledge alongside world-class technology, the team aims to ensure the infrastructure operates at peak performance for decades, demonstrating Sri Lanka’s capability to deliver renewable energy projects at an international standard.