Norochcholai power plant kicks off

by Anura Maitipe

The construction of coal power plants at Norochcholai at a cost of USD 455 million commenced last week. It was opened by President Mahinda Rajapakse.

The construction of coal power at Narakalliya, Kalpitiya the plant has been undertaken by Chinese government. 250 acres for this project have already been allocated. Over 70 families displaced as a result of this project have provided with alternative houses along with furniture and other domestic utensils.

Chinese contractors have planned to complete this project in three stages. Under stage one, it will add 300 megawatts (MW) to the main grid and this will be completed within three years. After completion of full project it will contribute another the 900 megawatts to the national grid.

The project will generate new employment opportunities. Under this project over 3000 employment opportunities will be created and new roads will be constructed.

With the completion of Norochcholai and the proposed Hambantota coal power projects, another 1800 MW will be added to the national grid.

Then the CEB will be able to meet the future requirement of the electricity in the country.