Milestone in a Journey of Cooperation: JICA and Sri Lankan government mark the Completion of Habarana–Veyangoda Transmission Project

On 3^rd September 2025, a landmark achievement in Sri Lanka’s energy journey was celebrated at the official ceremony of the Habarana–Veyangoda Transmission Line Project, a major initiative supported by Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The ceremony was attended by Hon. Minister of Energy of Sri Lanka Kumara Jayakody, senior officials of the Ministry and the CEB, , representatives of contractors, His Excellency Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka ISOMATA Akio, and Chief Representative of JICA Sri Lanka Office KURONUMA Kenji.

Funded by a JPY 9,573 million ODA loan from JICA, the project has constructed 220 kV low loss transmission lines and substations between Habarana and Veyangoda, including the new Habarana substation which is one of the largest grid substations in Sri Lanka and play a pivotal role at the hub of transmission network. It transmits renewable energy, strengthens transmission capacity, reduces transmission losses, and enhances reliability ensuring stable electricity supply for households, industries, and businesses.

“A reliable and efficient power supply is the backbone of the country’s economic growth and industrial development,” said Mr. KURONUMA, Chief Representative of JICA Sri Lanka Office. “By introducing modern 220 kV low loss transmission lines and substations, this project strengthens the grid, reduces transmission losses, enables the system to better absorb new sources of power, including renewable energy, and send the greener power to people in need.”

Hon. Mr.Kumara Jayakodi, the Minister of Energy stated, ‘’This project is a vital part of Sri Lanka’s electricity system, ensuring stability, reliability, and greater capacity. It will help preventing power failures we faced in the recent past. We sincerely thank the people of Japan for their long-standing friendship and support, and we look forward to more Japanese investments in projects in Sri Lanka’’.

With electricity demand in Sri Lanka doubling over the past two decades, this project is vital for energy security and industrial development. It also supports Sri Lanka’s ambition of reaching 70% renewable energy by 2030 by preparing the grid for greater integration of clean energy.

The project reflects the enduring friendship between Japan and Sri Lanka, and JICA reaffirmed its commitment to continuing its support for the country’s transition to a sustainable, reliable, and climate-resilient energy sector.