Disappearing reservoir water heightens power uncertainty
Water levels in many reservoirs have dropped sharply due to the dry weather, likely reducing hydropower generation capacity.
The water level of the Randenigala reservoir has dropped to nearly 69.8 percent of its total capacity, while at Victoria, it has dropped to 45.8 percent and Kotmale to 49.1 percent.
At Samanalawewa the water level has shrunk to 35.4 percent of its full capacity.
Total storage capacity is down as of Friday to 45.8 percent.
Ceylon Electricity Board spokesperson, Andrew Nawamani, said a considerable drop in rainfall in areas where the reservoirs are located is contributing to the electricity crisis.
“Reservoirs now only fulfil about 25% of our hydropower. This will be reduced with water levels dropping. The country will increasingly depend on coal and diesel power plants, but with the current fuel crisis, I don't know what will happen,’’ he said.
The water level in the Castlereigh Reservoir, which is used to generate hydropower and also released for farming, is fast receding due to the extended dry spell.
Nawamani said the water in the reservoir has dropped to 24.3% and it could be empty in another two weeks. The Castlereagh Reservoir dam is 155 feet high. The reservoir is expected to reach minimum operating level by end April.
Moussakelle will reach its minimum operating level by end March.
The Norochcholai Power Plant’s Unit 3 is back in operation.
The chairman of the CEB Engineers Association, Anil Ranjith, asserted that the water levels in the reservoirs will drop drastically if the prevailing weather continues.
He also said that reservoirs now fulfill about 25% of hydropower generation.
“Managing the water level is very important now,’’ he added.
“Hydropower generation will be at risk if there is no rain in the reservoir areas in the next two weeks as the water levels in the reservoirs used for power generation have dropped to a critical level.’’
He suggested implementing a power cut for at least two hours during the off peak period.
However, the drought has not affected drinking water facilities, the National Water Supply and Drainage Board, deputy general manager (planning), Ajith Perera said.
Residents of Colombo, Gampaha and Kalutara District may not have a water shortage as it is being supplied from main sources such as the Kalu and Kelani rivers.
“However, we are coordinating with the Mahaweli Authority and Irrigation Department in this regard.’’
S. P. C. Sugeeshwara, director of irrigation ( hydrology), said the drought has not affected agricultural activity and the Maha cultivation can start.