by Commander A. P. Amila Prasanga and Thusitha Bulathgama
Proceeding of the Open University Research Sessions (OURS 2023)
ABSTRACT
The demand for energy is increasing, while the need to address the impacts of climate change poses challenges for island states like Sri Lanka, located in the Indian Ocean. This research examines the potential of renewable energy sources in Sri Lanka's maritime domain, assessing the associated challenges and opportunities. Employing a mixed-methods approach, both qualitative and quantitative data are utilized. A comprehensive literature review on maritime renewable energy sources and an analysis of Sri Lanka's energy consumption patterns serves as the basis of this study. Furthermore, expert interviews with professionals from relevant fields are conducted to gain an in-depth understanding of the feasibility and potential of various renewable energy sources, including wind, solar, tidal, and wave power. The findings indicate significant potential for renewable energy in Sri Lanka's maritime domain. The country's extensive coastline and strong winds offer favorable conditions for wind power generation while coastal areas receive abundant solar radiation, highlighting the potential for solar energy production. However, several challenges need to be addressed to fully exploit this potential, including high upfront costs, intermittency of certain renewable energy sources, and the requirement for new infrastructure to support renewable energy production and distribution. This research also identifies several opportunities associated with renewable energy sources in the maritime domain, such as enhancing the resilience of Sri Lanka's maritime infrastructure against extreme weather events like cyclones and storms, and generating new employment opportunities. In conclusion, this study emphasizes the importance of exploring the potential for renewable energy sources in Sri Lanka's maritime domain as a crucial step towards developing sustainable and resilient energy systems. The findings provide insights into the challenges and opportunities related to renewable energy sources in the maritime domain and offer strategies to overcome these challenges. The research outcomes can serve as a valuable starting point for future research and policy development towards sustainable and resilient energy systems, particularly in island states like Sri Lanka.
Keywords: Climate Change, Renewable Energy Sources, Maritime Domain, Sri Lanka, Islands States
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* Commander Amila Prasanga is a Military Research Officer at the Institute of National Security Studies (INSS), the premier think tank on National Security established under the Ministry of Defence. The opinions expressed are his own and not necessarily reflective of the institute or the Ministry of Defence.
* Mr.Thusitha Bulathgama is a Research Assistant at the Institute of National Security Studies (INSS) the premier think tank on National Security established under the Ministry of Defence. The opinion expressed is his own and not necessarily reflective of the institute or the Ministry of Defence.