Sri Lanka’s total installed solar power capacity has now exceeded 3,070 MW, with solar energy currently covering between 15% and 25% of the nation’s daily electricity needs, depending on prevailing weather conditions, according to the National System Operator (NSO).
The NSO reports that around 2,542 MW of rooftop solar capacity has been integrated into the grid through the Net Metering, Net Accounting, and Net Plus programs, while an additional 534 MW originates from ground-mounted solar installations.
Solar capacity continues to expand at a pace of roughly 25-30 MW per month, driven by both rooftop and ground-mounted projects that have already secured the necessary approvals, the NSO noted.
Looking ahead to 2027-2029, the NSO has outlined plans to enable a further 1,392 MW of solar capacity. This breaks down into 500 MW from rooftop installations, 442 MW from small- and medium-scale developments, and 450 MW from large-scale solar parks. The plan also includes adding roughly 1,240 MW/4,660 MWh of battery energy storage capacity within the same timeframe.
That said, the NSO acknowledged that rooftop solar growth projected for 2026 has already surpassed expectations, driven by rapid adoption and current technical constraints. As a result, electricity distribution licensees — including EDL and LECO — have been directed to closely track new rooftop solar approvals and capacity growth. The NSO characterized this step as a temporary measure to protect grid security, rather than a permanent restriction on renewable energy expansion.
Zero-export solar connections — which let consumers store daytime solar output in batteries for use during evening and nighttime hours — will remain exempt from these limitations. The NSO also confirmed that new applications will continue to be accepted under the Net Plus scheme.
Additionally, the NSO clarified that any solar applications approved before September 11, 2026, will proceed without any changes to their existing approvals.