The energy mafia operates a terrorism which is even more dangerous than the terrorism of Prabhakaran because it robs even the poorest people in many ways, Minister of Techology, Research and Atomic Energy Patali Champika Ranawaka stated. He made this statement yesterday during the Kandy launch of his new book “Power and Power.”

He stated that the energy sector is vital for the future of the country. However, a few people have taken control of the whole sector. If a country has a clear, rigid policy against this mafia, it could be defeated within a year, the Minister says.

As an example he cited the energy saving program initiated in 2012 when hydro electricity output fell due to low water levels in reservoirs. Ranawaka said that, the policy at an emergency had been to buy electricity from private suppliers at a higher prize. However, this energy saving policy was far more effective than thought to be, he stressed.

Furthermore Ranawaka said that it would be wrong to accuse the relevant ministers for the huge losses accrued by Central Electricity Board and Ceylon Petroleum Corporation. The energy mafia is a complex mechanism and has entangled politicians of both government and opposition, he stated.

He also stated that the people have a right to know how their electricity bills are being calculated stating that a more transparent mechanism should be introduced so that people can be aware of what is happening.

If operated correctly, Norochcholai power plant has the capacity to supply a significant amount of electricity requirement, Ranawaka states. Therefore, he argued that the power plant should not be handed over to another party. It has been widely speculated that the government is planning to hand over the management of the Norochcholai power plant to China.