Sepala Ilangakoon
Considering the continuing drought, especially in the catchment areas of the hydro-power generating reservoirs, many of which we have seen on TV to be at rock bottom levels, it would seem that we would have to reconcile ourselves to more and longer and longer power cuts. So let’s have a closer look (in the dark !) at them.

The genesis of electricity via the national grid, can be by water power (Hydro-electricity), or by fuel powered generators. Apparently and fortuitously, some 75% of the national consumption is met by hydroelectricity which, except for the massive capital outlay on dams, turbines and other essentials such as irrigation canals etc, is relatively economical. The minor balance of power is churned out by diesel operated generators at a high cost.

Perhaps the Ceylon Electricity Board is doing its best to mitigate the austerity faced by the consumers, both large manufacturers and small householders, by imposing longer and longer power cuts each night and day. While doing so, they can very easily reduce the burden and hardships and inconvenience of consumers by advertising in all the daily newspapers, the hours of the power cuts in each of the three segments each day, so that the consumers could arrange accordingly.

If for some unknown reason, this expedient is not possible, surely the CEB could adopt the simple procedure of giving the consumers a timely indication of the impending black out by throwing the main switches in the power stations off, and on again for a brief five seconds, say ten minutes before each power cut. This signal would alert consumers, especially householders to light up their kerosene lamps and lanterns and other equipment, and do whatever other urgent jobs they have to do before power is switched off. It would be a kind and thoughtful gesture towards the long suffering users of electricity.

In the long term, has the CEB taken all possible steps as a national obligation and priority, to find alternate sources of energy ? On a personal note, as a cost saving device, I have for some years now, installed and used a 5ft. x 3 ft. "Solar Heater" panel which provides the household requirements of hot water without resorting to electric boilers and kettles. Solar Heater Panels are so convenient that it is a case of ‘Fit and forget’ - no switching on and off, no electricity or fuel consumption; just turn on the hot water tap and voila! - hot water ! One reads of acres of interconnected solar panels being set up in other countries which are favoured with bright sunshine for long hours, and benefiting from the low recurring cost free electricity.

The windmills of Holland have been traditionally milling grains etc, over decades. They are, perhaps, churning out electric power now. There was also the possibility of using wave action along the sea coast for power generation and another venture, using the differences in temperature in deep sea bays such as the Trincomalee harbour.

Perhaps there are various useful contrivances and inventions known to world scientists and specialists at the CEB. Without attaching blame on anyone, is it not the opportune moment to get going even though late, before Nature decides on the next crippling drought ?