Lankan industry leaders explore sustainable energy future

Representatives from EU, UNIDO, relevant ministries and panellists at Industry Dialogue on Challenges and Opportunities of Current Energy Crisis organised by European Union-funded Accelerating Industries Climate Response in Sri Lanka project

The leaders from across the industry, civil society, finance and academia met in Colombo to explore short and long-term energy solutions amidst Sri Lanka’s worst-ever energy crisis. 
With Sri Lanka’s industrial sector among the largest consumers of costly imported fossil-fuels, more than 100 participants heard from experts and shared their insights into how this economically important sector can move towards more sustainable energy use.  

“By decoupling Sri Lanka’s industrial development from the use of imported fossil fuels, we can avoid energy crises in the future and help slowdown global climate change,” said Environment Minister Naseer Ahamed during his opening remarks. 
Industries Minister Dr. Ramesh Pathirana stated, “The industrial sector employs 30 percent of the national workforce, so it’s essential that we future-proof this sector.” 

Organised by the European Union (EU)-funded Accelerating Industries Climate Response in Sri Lanka (AICRSL) project, the event’s centre-piece was a panel discussion between leading energy experts and innovators. With expertise in leveraging finance, new technologies and international trade in a changing world, the panellists shared some of the latest developments in the area of sustainable 
industrial energy.

Speaking at the event, EU Ambassador to Sri Lanka and the Maldives Denis Chaibi stated, “As global markets demand products with lower carbon footprints, we are eager to help Sri Lanka reap economic benefits by tapping into niche markets that seek sustainably produced goods, while also acting on climate change. This is part of the external dimension of the EU’s Green Deal, our blueprint for securing a sustainable energy future.” 

Meanwhile, a showcase of Sri Lankan Energy Savers, people in industry and government who are already helping improve energy use, was on display at an in-event exhibition. Those attending were invited to nominate other Energy Savers whose efforts should be recognised and could inspire others to take action.    

“Every transformational story needs people who will take on a challenge, run with it and make change happen. Sri Lanka’s Energy Savers are exactly that: courageous industry leaders and energy practitioners determined to help the country slash industries’ energy waste and greenhouse gas emissions. I look forward to seeing more Energy Savers emerge as the initiative progresses,” said United Nations Industrial Development Organisations (UNIDO) Project Manager Nicholas Dehod. 

The event is the first in a series of industry dialogues planned by the AICRSL project, a Rs.2.8 billion (€7.56 million) partnership between the Sri Lankan government, EU and UNIDO. This effort is designed to help the country’s industrial sector cut its greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) by 7 percent by 2030. The initiative will achieve this aim by supporting industry to use more renewable energy, such as solar PV and biogas and improve energy efficiency. 

EU Ambassador to Sri Lanka and the Maldives Denis Chaibi addresses Industry Dialogue on Challenges and Opportunities of Current Energy Crisis organised by European Union-funded Accelerating Industries Climate Response in Sri Lanka project

Environment Minister Naseer Ahamed during his opening remarks at Industry Dialogue on Challenges and Opportunities of Current Energy Crisis organised by European Union-funded Accelerating Industries Climate Response in Sri Lanka project