Sri Lanka’s annual per capita electricity consumption has surpassed 700 units for the first time, marking a key milestone in the nation’s development path, according to the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB).CEB spokesperson Engineer Dhammika Wimalaratne said the figure, based on data from the first seven months of 2025, represents a notable increase from the 642 units recorded in 2023.
The increase in power consumption is being viewed as a positive indicator of broader socio-economic progress. “This growth reflects improvements in human development, rising living standards, and the country’s ongoing transition towards a digitally integrated economy,” Wimalaratne noted.
Higher electricity usage is typically associated with expanded access to appliances, services, and digital technologies, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. Officials say the trend also underscores growing demand driven by economic activity and domestic consumption.
While the CEB welcomed the figures as encouraging, Wimalaratne said the Board remains focused on ensuring the power sector keeps pace with demand through sustainable energy planning and grid modernisation.