Low water levels in reservoirs reported

Low water levels in reservoirs - Electricity demand rises

by Sandro Sathyajith 23-04-2023 | 12:43 PM

COLOMBO (News 1st) - The Ministry of Power and Energy in Sri Lanka reported that the water levels in the reservoirs near power plants have dropped to 30.8% due to the ongoing adverse weather conditions. The low water levels have significantly affected the country's electricity generation.

Castlereagh, Kothmale, and Maussakale reservoirs, in particular, have recorded the lowest water levels. Castlereagh Reservoir's capacity is now at 13%, while Kothmale Reservoir and Maussakele Reservoir are at 13.3% and 15% capacity, respectively.

In comparison, Victoria Reservoir's water capacity is at 34%, Randenigala Reservoir's capacity is at 84%, and Saman Wewa Reservoir's capacity is at 38%. Only 14% of the total electricity generation was contributed by hydropower plants, while 72.5% came from thermal power plants. Furthermore, the daily demand for electricity in Sri Lanka has increased, reaching 45.2 gigawatts per hour.