Solar Power Is Not an Option — It’s an Imperative: PM

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka's Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya has called for bold, cooperative action to address Asia-Pacific’s energy and climate challenges, emphasizing that solar energy is no longer an alternative — it is an imperative.

Speaking at a regional energy summit, the Prime Minister highlighted the unique position of Asia and the Pacific, home to nearly 60% of the global population and many of the world’s fastest-growing economies. She stressed the region’s dual responsibility: accelerating economic growth while confronting deep climate vulnerabilities.

“From coastal megacities and small island states to remote inland communities striving for basic energy access, our energy strategies must be both resilient and equitable,” she said.

Dr. Amarasuriya underscored that scaling solar energy solutions requires more than ambition — it demands affordable financing, appropriate technologies, strong institutions, and robust cooperation.

Despite recent economic and political pressures, Sri Lanka has reaffirmed its commitment to clean energy and inclusive growth. The country’s national policy aims to generate 70% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

At the heart of this transition is the Surya Balasangramaya, which is rapidly expanding rooftop solar installations across households, schools, and public institutions.

“We are charting a path to recovery that is environmentally sustainable and economically and socially just,” the Prime Minister added.