Abstract:
The energy crisis in Sri Lanka presents significant
challenges for the country’s transition towards sustainable energy,
given the outdated energy grid, lack of infrastructure, and
heavy reliance on fossil fuels. The paper examines the short
and long-term plans for generation expansion, as well as the
new reforms set to be implemented in 2023. It analyzes the
geopolitical relations between Sri Lanka and major international
players in the energy sector, such as Japan, China, and India,
and their respective energy sector reforms, including China’s
Belt and Road Initiative and India’s Bay of Bengal Initiative.
Through this analysis, the paper highlights the opportunities and
challenges that exist for Sri Lanka in achieving a sustainable
energy transition. It emphasizes the importance of leveraging
geopolitical relations to shape the energy sector of a country
and achieve sustainable energy goals. To this end, the paper
provides recommendations, such as seeking partnerships and
investments in renewable energy sources, promoting energy
efficiency measures, and fostering international collaborations in
research and development. This study provides valuable insights
into the challenges and opportunities that exist for Sri Lanka
in achieving a sustainable energy transition. It highlights the
importance of taking a comprehensive approach that considers
geopolitical relations and collaboration with international players
to achieve sustainable energy goals.
