Watawala Plantations invests in key infrastructure unit
Diversified agribusiness company, Watawala Plantations PLC, recently announced a Rs. 1.86 million investment towards the installation of a dedicated electricity transformer, ensuring reliable power for Nakiyadeniya's residents and its palm oil mill. The installation of the new transformer will help to cater to growing demand for electricity for both the Nakiyadeniya Palm Oil Mill and the fast-growing residential communities in the region. To date, all residents in the area, and Watawala's facility have been sharing a single 630 kVA transformer, the company said in a media release.
"This investment not only signifies our commitment to the social and economic well-being of the communities we operate in but also underlines our dedication to sustainable practices and corporate social responsibility," said Senior Manager Mill Operations, Thanushka Kaluwa Handi of Watawala Plantations PLC. "Ensuring a stable and reliable electricity supply lays the foundation for the continued development of this community, and the further enhancement of the quality of life for the people of Nakiyadeniya".
Home to the first oil palm estate to be established in Sri Lanka in 1968, the community in Nakiyadeniya has been a prime beneficiary of the industry, with many residents working directly in oil palm cultivation and processing. The benefits of this crop cultivation has led to a sustained increase in livelihoods and quality of life around Nakiyadeniya.
The increased electricity consumption over the years, due to new dwellings and heightened usage by both the mill and area residents, prompted Watawala Plantations to seek a solution that would ensure uninterrupted power supply without any voltage drops, the statement said.
Recognising the importance of reliable electricity for the well-being of the community and the efficiency of the mill, the company proactively obtained all necessary approvals from the CEB and funded CEB’s installation of a dedicated transformer for the area's residents.
Watawala Plantations PLC is a leading Sri Lanka agribusiness company and part of the Sunshine Group of companies. It is the first company in South Asia to receive the coveted RSPO certification for palm oil.