The LECO Microgrid Pilot Project is the first of its kind in Sri Lanka. It consists of a solar photovoltaic system, a lithium-ion battery energy storage system, and a diesel generator as the energy resources. The capacity of the solar photovoltaic system is 350 kW, and the battery energy storage system is 400 kWh. The backup diesel generator capacity is 630 kVA. In addition, the microgrid powers three buildings on the campus with integrated remote load control capability. With these distributed energy resources, the system can operate independently during power outages with the help of an automated control system. Apart from the microgrid pilot, this project established the LECO – UOM Smart Grid Research Lab, a research and development facility with state-of-the-art equipment from reputed manufacturers. The lab houses solar PV systems, battery energy storage systems, controllable loads, and measurement devices that can be used in cutting-edge research and development.

Prof. Jagath Manatunge from the Department of Civil Engineering, University of Moratuwa has received the prestigious “Most Outstanding Senior Researcher in the field of Technology and related Sciences, including Engineering, Architecture, Quantity Surveying and Information Technology” offered by the Committee of Vice-Chancellors and Directors Sri Lanka (CVCD). CVCD awards are the most prestigious and once-in-alifetime awards given once in two years to the most prolific academics in Sri Lanka to honour their outstanding contributions.