The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) has announced a tariff of Rs. 45.80 per unit for solar energy generated from rooftop systems, stored in batteries, and released to the grid at night. The initiative aims to optimize the country’s energy mix by shifting solar power from low-demand daytime periods to peak nighttime hours.

“Battery storage systems with grid-tied inverters can supply energy from batteries to the grid, enabling excess solar energy to be stored during the day and dispatched when the grid needs it most,” the CEB stated.

Noel Priyantha of CEB added that customers would benefit not only from the higher tariff but also from 24x7 electricity access, as battery storage systems provide backup during outages. He also noted that rising demand for solar battery systems is likely to increase imports and gradually lower prices.

However, industry representatives argue that the tariff remains too low.

Lakmal Fernando, Chairman of the Energy Council and Vice President of the National Chamber of Industries, said the scheme had been proposed for several years with a recommendation for a higher rate.

“To achieve full economic benefits, one needs to invest around Rs. 2.5 million or more for a complete battery backup system. We proposed a rate of Rs. 60 per unit, which is still cheaper than the Rs. 70 per unit CEB pays for diesel-generated power,” Fernando explained.

The debate underscores the challenge of balancing investor incentives and affordability while promoting the adoption of solar energy with battery storage systems.