"The proposal to charge consumers for street lighting, along with a contentious unit rate of Rs. 67, is nothing short of unfair," asserted Sajith Premadasa, the Opposition Leader, during his critique of the NPP government’s latest electricity policy. His comments, shared on the platform ‘X’, highlighted serious concerns regarding the implications of this policy not only for everyday consumers but also for the burgeoning renewable energy sector, particularly affecting those with lower incomes.
Premadasa expressed that penalizing residents for street lighting could lead to significant issues in maintaining public safety and order. This raises a crucial point: if citizens are unhappy with having to pay for something they see as a basic service, what could that mean for community welfare?
He further emphasized the need for transparency and public dialogue regarding proposals, such as charging solar energy producers based on their daytime energy output. Premadasa insisted that the government should uphold its commitment by lowering electricity prices by 33%, rather than implementing an increase of 11.57%.
Accusing the current administration of spreading "lies, falsehoods, and deception," he called for stronger support for the renewable energy industry and immediate financial relief for consumers. This situation invites an important question: how can we balance the push for sustainable energy solutions with the need for fair pricing that does not burden the most vulnerable in society? What are your thoughts on this controversial issue? Feel free to share your opinions below."
