President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has sounded the alarm over what he describes as a sharp rise in electricity demand during evening peak hours, attributing a 300-megawatt spike to the growing use of electric vehicles (EVs). According to the President, the surge occurs between 6:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., when commuters return home and plug in their vehicles, placing sudden pressure on the national grid.
This claim has triggered both concern and controversy. On the surface, the argument aligns with global trends: unmanaged EV charging can strain power systems during peak hours. In response, the President has proposed shifting charging to daytime hours when solar generation is abundant and introducing time-based tariffs to discourage nighttime charging. The policy direction reflects a broader attempt to balance Sri Lanka’s evolving energy mix while avoiding costly reliance on coal and diesel plants during peak demand.
However, energy experts are questioning whether the numbers behind this narrative hold up. Eminet power and energy analyst Vidura Ralapanawa has publicly challenged the 300 MW figure, calling it “scientifically unacceptable.” His analysis suggests that the current EV fleet in Sri Lanka simply does not have the capacity to generate such a surge.
As of early 2026, Sri Lanka has approximately 8,655 electric cars and SUVs and nearly 36,860 electric two-wheelers. Even under aggressive assumptions where a large portion of these vehicles charge simultaneously the total demand would fall well below 100 MW.
For the President’s estimate to be accurate, Ralapanawa argues, the country would need roughly four times the existing EV population, all charging at once an unlikely scenario.
Charging behavior further weakens the claim. Modern EVs, with ranges between 300 and 500 kilometers, typically require charging only once every few days, not daily. Additionally, charging durations are relatively short and staggered, making a synchronized nationwide spike improbable. These usage patterns suggest a more distributed and manageable load on the grid.
The debate raises deeper questions about data accuracy and policy direction. Ralapanawa has gone further, alleging that misinformation may be influenced by interests aligned with fossil fuel industries an assertion that, if true, could have significant implications for Sri Lanka’s energy transition.
Beyond the dispute, one point remains clear: EV adoption in Sri Lanka is accelerating rapidly, especially after the lifting of import restrictions in 2025. EVs now account for 10–15% of new vehicle registrations, signaling a structural shift in transportation. This transition carries clear economic benefits, including substantial fuel savings for individuals and reduced pressure on foreign exchange reserves.
Ultimately, the controversy over the 300 MW figure underscores the need for transparent data and evidence-based policymaking. Whether the President’s concerns are overstated or precautionary, the path forward requires careful planning balancing grid stability, renewable energy integration, and the continued growth of electric mobility.