CEB suspends coal testing tender

The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) has reportedly decided to suspend an ongoing tender process to select a coal quality tester and will initiate a re-tender due to controversies surrounding the current process. 

 

 

This decision is not expected to affect the upcoming coal unloading season, as existing quality testers' agreements have been extended. Sri Lanka is facing an energy crisis due to drought and reduced hydropower capacity. 

 

 

The decision to re-tender came after recommendations from the National Procurement Commission and Finance Ministry to avoid future inconveniences. 

 

 

The quality tester ensures coal standards for the Norochcholai power plant. Earlier reports indicated suspicions about the tender process. 

 

 

There were concerns about the Technical Evaluation Committee favoring the highest bidder among three international companies. 

 

 

A Swiss company was tentatively chosen, despite allegations of malpractice and corruption investigations. 

 

 

The upcoming tender will have strict conditions, including bid security from a bank authorized by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka.