Electricity consumers were yesterday given a subtle warning of impending power cuts if rains fail within the next two weeks. Business establishments were forewarned and advised to use generators during peak hours between 6.30 pm and 9.30 pm.

Power and Energy Minister W. D. J. Seneviratne presided at a press conference held at the Government Information Department where the CEB’s future plans were revealed. Top officials of the CEB also participated.

Seneviratne said water levels in all hydro power reservoirs had continued to decrease.

A Select Committee had been appointed to map out a future course of action to face the impending crisis without imposing power cuts. The Committee would submit its proposals and recommendations to the Cabinet within a fortnight, he said.

The CEB generates 27 million units of electricity per day using thermal power, since hydro power generation alone cannot meet the demand. It has been found at least 20 per cent of electricity is wasted each day. The Minister cited bulbs switched on unnecessarily and air conditioners were left on even after offices are closed for the day. Street lights were not switched off during daylight hours.

Using a litre of diesel the CEB generates only 5 units of electricity and each unit is sold at a loss of Rs 2. The Upper Kotmale hydro power plant, Kerawalapitiya gas turbine plant and Norochcholai coal power plant are all now in the process of being built at a cost of US dollars 1,500 million.

The Minister said Sri Lanka needs at least 300 MW added to the national grid each year to keep pace with the demand.