Secretary of Sri Lanka Freedom Workers Association, W.A.C. Prabhat contends that the Ceylon Electricity Board‘s current robust profitability could facilitate a significant reduction of approximately 30% in electricity bills. He asserts that despite approximately 80% of electricity being generated from water, with production costs ranging from 1.85 to 2.50 rupees per hydroelectric unit at facilities like Lakshapana, consumers are not benefiting adequately.
Highlighting the current profitability of the electricity board, Prabhat opposes any notion of selling the institution, emphasizing its capacity to alleviate financial burdens on consumers through reduced tariffs. While acknowledging instances of inefficiency and corruption within the board, he suggests addressing these issues by downsizing the workforce and eliminating non-performing employees, rather than resorting to privatization.
He views proposals for restructuring as a ploy to advance privatization agendas, cautioning against jeopardizing the interests of consumers and the nation’s energy sovereignty.
