{
    "success": true,
    "data": {
        "id": 2042937,
        "msgid": "sri-lanka-hit-by-nationwide-power-cut-after-system-disruption-1792299041",
        "date": "2026-10-18 10:59:50",
        "title": "Sri Lanka Hit by Nationwide Power Cut After System Disruption",
        "author": "",
        "source": "ANTARA_ID",
        "tags": "",
        "topic": "Energy",
        "summary": "Sri Lanka experienced a nationwide blackout after instability in its electricity system, with authorities working to restore supply and estimating a full recovery by 18:30 local time. The energy minister cited a suspected disruption at the Upper Kotmale power plant, while the National System Operator said the Norochcholai coal-fired plant had been shut down under standard procedures rather than because of mechanical damage.",
        "content": "<p>Istanbul (ANTARA) \u2013 Sri Lanka experienced a nationwide power cut on\nSaturday (17 October) following instability in its electricity system.\nAuthorities were working to restore supply, according to the Sri Lankan\nGovernment Information Department.<\/p>\n<p>The state-owned National System Operator (NSO) said it was working to\nrestore the electricity system. It also asked owners of solar\nphotovoltaic systems to disconnect them until further notice to support\nthe restoration process.<\/p>\n<p>Energy Minister Anura Karunathilake said a disruption at the Upper\nKotmale Power Plant was suspected to have caused the blackout.<\/p>\n<p>Authorities said power outages had been reported in several parts of\nthe island nation as restoration efforts continued.<\/p>\n<p>On the same day, the NSO rejected reports of damage to power plants\nfollowing the nationwide blackout. It said hydroelectric plants that\nremained operational were continuing to help restore electricity\nsupply.<\/p>\n<p>The NSO also explained that operations at the coal-fired Norochcholai\nPower Plant had been halted in accordance with standard procedures, not\nbecause of mechanical damage.<\/p>\n<p>According to the NSO, power supply was being restored gradually from\nmidday. Electricity had returned to several areas in Colombo, Gampaha,\nGalle and Badulla.<\/p>\n<p>The NSO estimated that the national grid would be fully restored at\naround 18:30 local time (13:00 GMT\/20:00 WIB).<\/p>",
        "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/sri-lanka-hit-by-nationwide-power-cut-after-system-disruption-1792299041",
        "image": ""
    },
    "sponsor": "Okusi Associates",
    "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com"
}