Government issues Gazette for CEB reorganization, effective March 9

Energy Minister Kumara Jayakody has released a Gazette Extraordinary formalizing the transfer of functions and responsibilities of the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB), effective March 9, 2026.

The Gazette outlines the creation of six successor companies responsible for electricity generation, transmission, distribution, and system operations, marking a major step in modernizing the country’s power sector.

Under the Sri Lanka Electricity Act, No. 36 of 2024, most provisions will come into effect on March 9, with exceptions for specific sections. The move follows a series of regulatory milestones, including:

• Preliminary Transfer Plan prepared by the Power Sector Reforms Secretariat on January 5, 2026.
• Approval of national electricity and tariff policies by the Cabinet on March 3, 2026.
• Technical plans finalized by CEB, including the Annual Power Procurement Plan, Long Term Generation Expansion Plan, and Long Term Transmission Development Plan on February 18, 2026.

Foundational parts of the Act, such as sections on preliminary administration and regulatory framework establishment, have been in effect since June 27, 2024.

This restructuring officially begins the transition of CEB functions, duties, and assets to the new entities, aimed at improving the efficiency, reliability, and modernization of Sri Lanka’s electricity sector.