2023-04-26-亚开行-在斯里兰卡实现全面电气化的道路上（英）_86页_1mb

Degree of Electrification

Sri Lanka achieved 100% electricity coverage for the entire country by 2016. Key milestones include the establishment of the Rural Electrification Division within the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) in 1980 and the use of multilateral funding, such as support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), to expand rural electrification.

Historical Context

Electricity was first introduced in Sri Lanka in the late 19th century. The CEB was established in 1969 to handle generation, transmission, and distribution. Prior to this, local authorities managed rural distribution, leading to limited coverage. CEB's reforms and institutional collaborations extended coverage significantly.

Multilateral and bilateral agencies, such as ADB and JICA, provided substantial funding for rural electrification projects from the late 20th century onward, accelerating the nation's electrification journey.

Policy and Institutional Development

The Ministry of Power and Energy played a critical role in promoting rural electrification through consistent national policies. Decisions in 2008 mandated extending the national grid wherever beneficial and provided financial support where projects were not commercially viable. Rural electrification projects were packaged and financed, facilitating final household connectivity through appropriate credit mechanisms.

CEB and LECO institutions managed the distribution network, with the Rural Electrification Division identifying and implementing schemes to package projects for financing.

Macro and Household Impacts

A strong co-relation exists between electricity consumption and economic outcomes, with a 1% increase in electricity demand leading to a 0.63% increase in per capita GDP. Poverty and unemployment rates decreased with increased electrification.

Household studies in Hambantota district showed improved incomes, employment shifts towards commercial and industrial sectors, higher asset ownership, and better living standards. Access to electricity enhanced education, income generation, and overall quality of life.

Conclusions

Sri Lanka's achievement of universal electrification can be credited to consistent national policies, institutional reforms, foreign financial support, and dedicated efforts by the Ministry and CEB. Lessons learned can inform future energy policies in other countries seeking full electrification.