Getting Electricity in Sri Lanka: Your Guide to a New Connection
Moving into a new home, building a new house, or setting up a new business? One of the first things you'll need is a reliable electricity supply. In Sri Lanka, this process can sometimes seem a bit confusing, but it's manageable if you know the steps. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get your new electricity connection smoothly, whether you're dealing with the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) or Lanka Electricity Company (LECO).
Who Provides Your Electricity? CEB vs. LECO
Before you start, it's important to know which electricity provider serves your area.
Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB): This is the main national electricity provider, covering most of the island. If you're outside major urban areas or in certain parts of cities, CEB will likely be your provider.
Lanka Electricity Company (LECO): LECO operates in specific urban and semi-urban areas, primarily in the Western, Southern, and North Western provinces. Areas like Kalutara, Panadura, Moratuwa, Mount Lavinia, Kotte, Kelaniya, Wattala, Negombo, and Galle often fall under LECO.
If you're unsure, the easiest way to find out is to ask your neighbors or check an existing electricity bill for the area. You can also contact either utility and they will direct you if you are in the wrong service area.
Types of Connections: What Do You Need?
Electricity connections are generally categorized by their purpose and the amount of power required.
Domestic Connection: This is for residential homes. Most houses will need a single-phase connection. Larger homes with many high-power appliances (like multiple air conditioners) might consider a three-phase connection, but this is less common for standard residences.
Commercial Connection: For shops, offices, restaurants, and other businesses. The type (single-phase or three-phase) will depend on the power needs of the establishment.
Industrial Connection: For factories and large-scale industrial operations that require substantial power. These are almost always three-phase connections.
Temporary Connection: For construction sites or events. These are short-term connections with specific regulations.
For most people building a home or moving into a new apartment, a domestic single-phase connection is what you'll be applying for.
The Application Process: Step-by-Step
The general process is similar for both CEB and LECO, though specific forms or office locations will differ.
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
This is crucial. Having all your paperwork ready will speed up the process.
Application Form: You can usually download this from the CEB (ceb.lk) or LECO (leco.lk) website, or pick one up at their local office.
Proof of Ownership/Occupancy:
If you own the property: A copy of your deed (extract from the Land Registry) or a valid UDA (Urban Development Authority) certificate.
If you are leasing/renting: A copy of the lease or rental agreement, along with a letter of consent from the property owner.
If you are the legal occupier (e.g., through a permit): Relevant documentation proving your legal right to occupy the land/property.
Proof of Identity: A copy of your National Identity Card (NIC).
Survey Plan/Sketch of the Property: A simple sketch showing the location of your house/building on the land, clearly indicating the nearest road and any nearby electricity poles. This helps them plan the connection.
Wiring Diagram (Internal Wiring Layout): This is a schematic diagram prepared by a qualified electrician. It shows how the electricity will be distributed within your house, including points for lights, sockets, and appliances, and safety measures like circuit breakers.
Gramasevaka (Village Officer) Certificate: A letter from your local Grama Niladhari confirming your residency at the given address. This helps confirm your location for the utility.
Local Authority Approvals (if applicable): For new constructions, you may need to provide a copy of your building plan approval from the Municipal Council, Urban Council, or Pradeshiya Sabha.
Proof of Address: A recent utility bill (water bill, telephone bill) in your name at the location, if available (though this might be difficult for a brand new connection).
Step 2: Get Your Internal Wiring Inspected
Before the utility company connects your supply, your internal wiring must be inspected and certified. This ensures safety.
Hire a Qualified Electrician: It is vital to use an electrician who is certified and registered. They will install all internal wiring, fuse boards, sockets, and switches according to Sri Lankan standards.
Get a Certificate of Conformity (COC) or Wiring Certificate: Once your electrician completes the wiring, they will provide you with a certificate. This document confirms that your internal wiring is safe and meets all required standards. This is a mandatory document for your application.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Visit Your Local CEB/LECO Office: Take all your gathered documents and the completed application form to the nearest CEB or LECO office that serves your area. Check their website or call ahead for office hours and exact location.
Pay the Application Fee: There will be a nominal fee to process your application.
Receive an Acknowledgment: The office will provide you with an acknowledgment slip or a reference number for your application. Keep this safe.
Step 4: Site Inspection by the Utility Company
After submitting your application, CEB or LECO will schedule a site inspection.
Technical Team Visit: A technical team will visit your property to assess the feasibility of the connection. They will determine the nearest point of supply (e.g., the closest electricity pole), the length of service cable needed, and any other technical requirements.
Cost Estimation: Based on their inspection, they will prepare an estimate of the connection charges. This includes the cost of the service cable, meter, labor, and any necessary pole extensions or line work.
Step 5: Pay the Connection Charges
Receive the Estimate: You will receive a letter or notification detailing the connection charges.
Make the Payment: Go back to the CEB or LECO office (or designated payment center) and pay the full amount.
Step 6: Connection and Meter Installation
Installation Work: Once payment is confirmed, the utility company will schedule the actual connection work. This involves installing the service cable from the nearest pole to your meter point and installing the electricity meter.
Power On: After installation, your electricity will be switched on!
Important Things to Remember
Start Early: The process can take several weeks, sometimes even months, depending on the complexity of the connection and the workload of the utility company. Don't wait until the last minute!
Be Prepared for Costs: Beyond the application fee, the main cost will be the connection charges. This can vary significantly based on your location and distance from the existing electricity network.
Maintain Your Wiring: After connection, ensure your internal wiring is regularly checked by a qualified electrician, especially for older homes. Safety first!
Understand Your Bill: Once connected, learn to read your electricity bill. It will show your usage in kilowatt-hours (kWh) and the breakdown of charges.
Contact Your Local Office: If you have questions at any point, the best approach is to visit or call your local CEB or LECO office. They are the best source of up-to-date, specific information for your area.
Conclusion: Powering Your New Beginning
Applying for a new electricity connection in Sri Lanka involves several steps, but by being prepared with your documents and following the process, you can ensure a smooth experience. A reliable power supply is essential for any modern home or business. With this guide, you're now equipped to navigate the application process confidently and bring power to your new beginning.
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