IEEE PES KDU Hosts Panel Discussion on Adapting Sri Lanka’s Power System to Renewable Energy Growth

The IEEE Power & Energy Society (PES) Student Branch of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) successfully conducted a panel discussion on March 25, 2025, at the Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) Auditorium. The discussion, titled “Adapting Sri Lanka’s Power System to the Realities of Renewable Energy Growth,” brought together industry experts, faculty members, and students to explore the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating renewable energy into the national grid. 

The distinguished panel featured esteemed professionals from the energy sector, including: 

• Eng. Buddhika Samarasekara – Deputy General Manager, System Control, Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) 

• Eng. Athula Jayathunga – Former Director General, Sustainable Energy Authority (SEA) 

• Eng. Kosala Udagahapattuwa – Principal, CEB Training Centre, Piliyandala 

• Eng. Akmal Gunasekara – Managing Director, Phoenix Solar Solutions (Pvt) Ltd. 

Their expertise provided valuable insights into the evolving power sector and the future of renewable energy integration in Sri Lanka. 

The event was attended by approximately 200 participants, including Deputy Vice Chancellor (Defence & Administration) Brigadier RKARP Ratnayake RSP USP psc, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering Prof. Dr.-Ing. Thushara Weerawardane, Head of the Department of Electrical, Electronic & Telecommunication Engineering Capt (L) RT Hettiarachchi USP, Senior Professor Eng. J. Rohan Lucas, faculty members, and students from Intakes 39, 40, 41, and 42. 

The discussion followed a structured agenda, beginning with the arrival of guests and introductions. After the introduction of panelists, each expert engaged in a 15-minute discussion where key questions were posed on stage. The discussions were moderated by MWM Shakir (Past Chairman of IEEE PES KDU, Intake 38) and PVT Pindeniya (Present Chairman of IEEE PES KDU, Intake 39), ensuring an engaging and insightful conversation. 

A key highlight of the event was the interactive Q&A session, where audience members had the opportunity to ask questions, including those submitted in advance via an online platform. The session was livestreamed via Zoom, with online participants submitting their queries through an Online platform. 

The event concluded with key takeaways from the panelists, followed by the presentation of plaques in appreciation of their valuable contributions. The session ended with a networking opportunity and lunch, allowing participants to engage further with the experts and peers. 

This engaging and thought-provoking discussion served as a platform for knowledge-sharing and fostering meaningful conversations on sustainable energy solutions for Sri Lanka’s future.