A special review program on Sri Lanka’s preparedness for nuclear energy, which can be considered a significant step in Sri Lanka’s nuclear energy sector, was commenced today (14) in Colombo with the key participation of the Minister of Energy, Eng. Kumara Jayakody.
Coordinated by the Atomic Energy Board, this program, which began today (14) with the participation of experts from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will continue until July 18.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the Minister stated that this review program marks a significant step towards the future of Sri Lanka’s nuclear energy sector.
Furthermore he emphasized that the nuclear energy is significantly important given its reliability, low cost, energy safety, while also noting that nuclear energy has been included as a preliminary method in the CEB’s Long Term Generation Expansion Plan 2025-2044.
The Minister further added even though Sri Lanka has not yet reached a final decision regarding the use of nuclear energy, development of the required infrastructure to utilize nuclear energy is underway, considering the future energy requirements.
Also, he mentioned that this review program will provide an opportunity to obtain a better assessment of the development of nuclear infrastructure in Sri Lanka, while also helping to identify the country’s present status and obtain necessary recommendations for future actions in this regard.
John Haddad, a nuclear expert from the International Atomic Energy Agency along with a team of its experts, Dr. Thushara Ratnayake, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Authority, Professor Jagath Pitawala, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Regulatory Commission, and many academics and experts in the sector participated in the event.