Adani Wind Power Project in Mannar: Ecological threat and allegations of cronyism

The Adani Green Energy's wind power project in Mannar, Sri Lanka, has become a lightning rod for controversy. While the project promises to boost renewable energy production in the country, it faces fierce opposition due to its potential ecological impact and allegations of cronyism.

In February 2023, Adani Green Energy (Sri Lanka) Ltd was given provisional approval for two wind power projects of 250 MW in Mannar and 234 MW in Pooneryn. The proposed project site in Mannar spans across 250 acres of an environmentally sensitive location.

The 52 wind turbines will each have a capacity of 5.2 MW. They will be installed in parallel with the existing Thambapawani wind farm, across most parts of Mannar Island. Once operational, MWWP is expected to generate 1,048 GWh of energy per year—or around six percent of Sri Lanka’s requirement. The Annual Energy Production (AEP) of the proposed wind farm is around 6% of the country’s energy requirement. The implementation of the project will result in 18 billion rupees worth of annual fuel savings, in addition to 0.8 million metric tons of Green House Gas (GHG) reduction annually.

The proposed project area is situated on Mannar Island in the Northern Province. Mannar Island has an area of about 130 square kilometers, which serves as both the commercial and administrative hub of the district.
Mannar wind power project and its controversies:

The project has drawn criticism from environmental groups. Mannar is a region known for its biodiversity, rich marine ecosystem, and migratory bird populations. Critics argue that the construction of wind turbines could disrupt these delicate ecosystems. The massive scale of the project raises concerns about habitat loss, potential harm to marine life due to underwater cables, and the impact of noise pollution on bird migration patterns.

The Mannar wind farm sits astride a crucial migratory bird corridor, raising concerns about the disruption it might cause to avian populations. Environmentalists warn that the towering turbines could pose a serious threat to these birds, potentially altering their flight patterns and disrupting breeding cycles.

What makes Mannar particularly special is its role as a breeding ground for many migratory species. Some birds embark on extraordinary journeys, traversing vast distances from Mannar to regions as distant as Tibet and Europe. These birds not only connect Sri Lanka to the rest of the world but also provide valuable insights into global environmental conditions.

However, the proposed wind power project threatens to jeopardize this delicate ecosystem. The project site intersects with vital wetlands and protected areas, including the Adam's Bridge Marine National Park and the Vankalai Ramsar Sanctuary. These areas serve as crucial stopover points for migratory birds, offering essential habitats for resting and feeding.

Adding fuel to the fire are the exorbitant power purchase agreements inked with Adani. Critics allege that the negotiated prices for energy procurement far exceed market rates, placing an unnecessary burden on the nation's already strained finances. These inflated prices, they argue, exacerbate the ongoing fiscal crisis and erode public trust in governance.

Initially, Adani reportedly proposed a price of 9.7 US cents per kilowatt-hour (roughly 30-31 Sri Lankan rupees). Negotiations brought this down, but Sri Lanka's Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera emphasized that a final agreement hasn't been reached. Minister Wijesekera also refuted claims that Adani proposed an even higher price of 14 US cents (around 50 rupees).

The ongoing negotiations highlight concerns about transparency in the procurement process, particularly since the project was awarded without a public tender.

Concerns of local residents:

Beyond ecological and economic implications, the Mannar Wind Power Project has sparked apprehensions among local communities. Residents, particularly those reliant on agriculture and fisheries for their livelihoods, fear the loss of habitable lands and adverse impacts on marine ecosystems. The installation of wind turbines on fertile lands not only disrupts agricultural practices but also poses challenges to coastal fisheries, further exacerbating socio-economic tensions.

The project has rekindled unrest among communities reliant on fishing and residing in the island's coastal areas.
Residents claimed that formerly productive coastal waters have become depleted due to disturbances caused by the project, compelling fishermen to venture further into the sea, amplifying financial burdens amidst soaring fuel prices.

With plans to expand the project, apprehensions soar among local fishing families, particularly regarding the proposed installation of turbines in protected areas such as the Adams Bridge National Park and the Vidataltivu Nature Reserve. Although the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) acknowledges fishermen's concerns about noise affecting fish behavior, it dismisses them without substantive evidence.

The recent government decision to proceed with the project's development has further fueled tensions. Allegations of land acquisition without consent, coupled with environmental repercussions like heightened flooding, underscore growing discord between authorities and local communities.

How was the Mannar wind power project awarded to Adani?

According to sources, the Sri Lankan Board of Investment (BOI), responsible for attracting foreign investment, awarded the project through a standard process. The Adani Group supposedly submitted a feasibility study that met Sri Lankan regulations, leading to a provisional approval for the Build-Own-Operate (BOO) project.

However, a different narrative emerged with claims from Sri Lanka's then-CEB Chairman. He alleged that the Indian government exerted pressure on Sri Lanka's President, influencing the project's award to the Adani Group.
These allegations fueled concerns about "crony capitalism," suggesting the project wasn't awarded based on merit but rather on political connections and favoritism.

The lack of a clear and open bidding process raised serious questions about transparency in the project's selection. Locals and some within the government felt the process lacked fairness and accountability.
Despite the controversy, the project appears to be moving forward with an expected completion date of December 2024. However, the allegations and the lack of transparency remain unresolved issues.

Why government should reconsider its support for the Adani wind power project?

The government should reconsider its support for the Adani wind power project in Mannar and prioritize the preservation of Sri Lanka’s natural heritage due to several pressing concerns.
Firstly, the proposed project poses a significant threat to the rich biodiversity of Mannar, particularly its avian population. Mannar serves as a critical habitat for millions of migratory birds, including endangered species. The construction and operation of wind turbines in this area could disrupt important breeding and resting grounds, leading to irreversible harm to these fragile ecosystems.

Secondly, Mannar's coastal regions are vital for local communities, especially fishermen whose livelihoods depend on these marine resources. The wind power project could have adverse effects on fishing grounds and fish populations, impacting the socio-economic well-being of these communities. Additionally, potential disruptions to coastal ecosystems could exacerbate vulnerabilities to climate change-induced risks, such as sea-level rise and extreme weather events.

Similarly, the proposed project threatens to encroach upon protected areas and wetlands, violating environmental conservation laws and regulations. These areas play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and supporting diverse flora and fauna. Any degradation or destruction of these habitats would not only undermine Sri Lanka's commitment to biodiversity conservation but also compromise the country's obligations under international environmental agreements.

In addition, the adverse impacts of the wind power project extend beyond ecological concerns. The displacement of local communities and the loss of traditional livelihoods could result in social unrest and exacerbate inequalities. It is essential for the government to prioritize the well-being of these marginalized communities and ensure their meaningful participation in decision-making processes related to the project.

The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for Adani’s 250 MW wind power project in Mannar is now available for public comment. A study conducted by renowned scientist Professor Sampath Seneviratne from the University of Colombo has revealed significant findings regarding bird migration patterns in Sri Lanka. Upon analyzing the environmental impact assessment (EIA) for the proposed 250 MW Mannar Wind Power Project, it has become apparent that a comprehensive reassessment is necessary to ensure transparency and accountability in decision-making processes. 

The assessment highlighted several areas of concern, including the impact on endemic and threatened plant species, potential habitat disruption, and local population decline. In addition, issues regarding land use, land acquisition, and fair compensation for affected landowners need to be addressed more thoroughly. The flood risk assessment also requires a detailed reevaluation, focusing on accurate ground survey data and effective mitigation measures to minimize flood aggravation.

Public consultations have revealed concerns about fish stocks, flooding, and impacts on local and migratory birds necessitating further attention and dialogue with stakeholders. The economic impacts on affected communities, especially regarding livelihoods and alternative income opportunities, must be carefully considered and mitigated. Moreover, the development of a robust Environmental Management Plan (EMP) with clear monitoring protocols and stakeholder engagement mechanisms is imperative to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and best practices.

In light of these concerns, the government should reassess its support for the Adani wind power project in Mannar and explore alternative renewable energy solutions that are more environmentally sustainable and socially equitable. By prioritizing the preservation of Sri Lanka’s natural heritage, the government can demonstrate its commitment to sustainable development and safeguard the country's ecological integrity for future generations.