Sri Lanka Hit by Nationwide Power Cut After System Disruption

Istanbul (ANTARA) – Sri Lanka experienced a nationwide power cut on Saturday (17 October) following instability in its electricity system. Authorities were working to restore supply, according to the Sri Lankan Government Information Department.

The state-owned National System Operator (NSO) said it was working to restore the electricity system. It also asked owners of solar photovoltaic systems to disconnect them until further notice to support the restoration process.

Energy Minister Anura Karunathilake said a disruption at the Upper Kotmale Power Plant was suspected to have caused the blackout.

Authorities said power outages had been reported in several parts of the island nation as restoration efforts continued.

On the same day, the NSO rejected reports of damage to power plants following the nationwide blackout. It said hydroelectric plants that remained operational were continuing to help restore electricity supply.

The NSO also explained that operations at the coal-fired Norochcholai Power Plant had been halted in accordance with standard procedures, not because of mechanical damage.

According to the NSO, power supply was being restored gradually from midday. Electricity had returned to several areas in Colombo, Gampaha, Galle and Badulla.

The NSO estimated that the national grid would be fully restored at around 18:30 local time (13:00 GMT/20:00 WIB).